Decoding Wedding Dress Codes: The Perfect Suit for Every Occasion

Weddings come in all forms—sun-drenched coastal celebrations, black tie city soirées, countryside gatherings, and everything in between. But no matter the setting, understanding the dress code is key to dressing well—and dressing right.

Here’s your guide to decoding wedding dress codes, with tailored recommendations for custom suiting, so you’ll look sharp, feel confident, and never out of place.

Black Tie

What it means: Formal evening wear. Think James Bond.

Recommended Suit: A tuxedo - typically in black or midnight navy with a satin peak lapel or shawl collar.

Customisation Tips:

• Choose a one-button, single-breasted jacket for classic elegance.

• Add side adjusters instead of belt loops for a cleaner waistline.

• Opt for satin-covered buttons and a contrast lapel in grosgrain or satin.

• Pair with a crisp white tuxedo shirt and black bow tie.

• Optional but elevated: silk piping on the trousers.

Formal / Black Tie Optional

What it means: A tuxedo is welcome but not required. A dark suit will do the job.

Recommended Suit: A dark custom suit in black, charcoal, or midnight navy.

Customisation Tips:

• Add a subtle sheen with a wool-silk blend cloth.

• Elevate the lapel with a wide peak or contrasting fabric for a nod to black tie.

• Pair with a white shirt, silk tie, and leather oxfords.

• Finish with a matching pocket square and custom monogram inside the jacket for a personal touch.

Cocktail / Semi-Formal

What it means: Dress sharp but with more freedom to show personality.

Recommended Suit: A mid-tone suit in navy, grey, or earth tones—structured but less rigid than formalwear.

Customisation Tips:

• Choose a two-button jacket with a notch lapel for versatility.

• Experiment with subtle patterns like herringbone, windowpane, or birdseye.

• Opt for a vest for a more elevated feel or ditch the tie for modern ease.

• Add contrast with bold lining, custom buttons, or a personalised label.

Beach / Destination

What it means: Lightweight, breezy, and laid-back—but still polished.

Recommended Suit: A linen, cotton, or lightweight wool blend suit in beige, ivory, or light blue.

Customisation Tips:

• Go unstructured with a soft shoulder and minimal lining for breathability.

• Opt for patch pockets and a relaxed notch lapel for casual flair.

• Pair with a button-down shirt (open collar), loafers or even bare feet if local traditions allow.

Garden / Rustic / Smart Casual

What it means: Somewhere between dressed-up and relaxed, with a touch of personality encouraged.

Recommended Suit: A textured or lightly patterned suit in sage green, dusty blue, tan, or brown.

Customisation Tips:

• Try earthy or muted tones in flannel, tweed, or brushed cotton.

• Customise with a wider lapel or double-breasted style for vintage charm.

• Add a personalised embroidery (e.g. wedding date or initials).

• Mix and match jacket and trousers for a casual yet intentional look.

Every dress code is an opportunity to show up with intention. And when your suit is made-to-measure, every detail - from the lapel to the lining—tells part of your story.

Whether you’re the groom, a groomsman, or a well-dressed guest, investing in a custom suit ensures you strike the perfect balance between dressing for the occasion and dressing for yourself.

Book your fitting today at your local showroom and let our stylists help you build the perfect look—down to the last buttonhole.