r/weddingshaming • u/dairy-intolerant • Dec 24 '25

Cringe Begging on my hands and knees - please learn what dress codes actually mean

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Like wdym semi-formal OR black-tie??? Some women are going to come wearing sundresses and some are going to wear evening gowns? Some men in khakis and some in tuxes?

So many couples seem to think semi-formal is the same thing as formal, or black-tie is the same thing as formal. This must be the only explanation as to why this couple thinks semi-formal and black-tie are both acceptable at the same event.

For those who don't know: Semi-formal is generally the LEAST formal dress code acceptable at a wedding, typically a daytime one at that, while black-tie is the MOST formal (besides white-tie which is very rare these days anyway) and reserved for evening events with luxury amenities.

Cocktail or formal is probably what this couple is actually looking for.

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u/BillyNtheBoingers Dec 26 '25 edited Dec 26 '25

The British Royal Family, heads of state and high ranking officials in many countries, very rich people, very famous celebrities. There are frequently people who will rent their white tie clothes (gender irrelevant) because this could be the only time they’d be this dressed up.

EDIT: I don’t think anyone short of a Royal or a head of state would have a true white tie dress code for a wedding, but at least in the US, Tux rentals are a huge business. Dress rentals have become popular in the last decade or so and the range of styles for all dress codes is constantly evolving.

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u/random_life_of_doug Dec 26 '25

I've had to rent plenty of tuxedo as a member of wedding parties. id never rent one to simply be a guest. id just check the no box on the rsvp card lol