The dress code on the invitation is your starting point. Garden and daytime weddings welcome lighter fabrics, floral prints, and midi or maxi lengths. Formal and black tie weddings call for more elevated styles — floor-length gowns, elegant lace, or polished cocktail dresses in rich, deep shades. When in doubt, a midi dress in a solid color is a graceful choice for almost any setting.

Yes, and guests do it often. A black dress can look stunning at a wedding, especially for evening or formal events. Choose something with elegant detailing — lace, a beautiful neckline, or a flowing silhouette — to keep the look celebratory rather than understated. For daytime or outdoor ceremonies, a softer color or print tends to photograph better.

Beach wedding guest dresses work best in lightweight, breathable fabrics that won't weigh you down in the heat. A flowy maxi or midi in a soft print or warm neutral looks beautiful outdoors and moves with the breeze. Skip stilettos — wedges, block heels, or elegant flat sandals are far more practical on sand or grass.

Almost any color works, with a few exceptions. White, ivory, and champagne are traditionally reserved for the bride, so it's best to steer clear. Blush can work depending on the shade, but if you're unsure, opt for something deeper. Navy, dusty blue, emerald, wine, and soft floral prints are all beautiful choices that photograph well and feel occasion-appropriate.

Cocktail attire typically calls for a knee-length to midi dress in an elevated fabric or silhouette. Formal and black tie events lean toward floor-length gowns or very polished midi styles in luxurious fabrics like lace, satin, or chiffon. When an invitation says "black tie optional," a sophisticated cocktail dress is perfectly appropriate.