What to Wear to a Semi-Formal Wedding (for every type of venue)

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If you’ve been invited to a wedding with a semi-formal dress code, you’re not alone in wondering exactly what that means. It’s one of those ambiguous terms that leaves plenty of room for interpretation. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to nail your semi-formal wedding guest outfit with confidence and style.

One of the shopping requests I often get is for wedding guest dresses. I wish I had more weddings on my calendar to shop for myself, but since I don’t, I thought this post would be helpful for all of you who are shopping mode. Growing up in the Mormon church, the dress code for wedding receptions for most of those weddings is VERY casual and wildly different, so I was a bit clueless about what to wear when it came time to buy dresses for non-Mormon weddings. Now that I’ve lived in the south for over a decade, I better understand how people dress for weddings, specifically semi-formal weddings!

Whether you’re headed to a chic evening celebration in a ballroom or an outdoor garden wedding in the afternoon, the key to semi-formal attire is hitting the sweet spot between casual and formal. Think elevated, polished, and party-ready—without going full black-tie.

The time of day, venue, season, and even the invitation design can all offer clues about how dressy the couple expects guests to be. When in doubt, err on the more polished side. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed for a wedding.

Alright, let’s jump in!

What to Wear to a Semi-Formal Wedding

What is Semi-Formal Wedding Guest Attire?

Semi-formal wedding attire is a step down from formal or black-tie dress codes, but still refined and elegant. It’s often referred to as “cocktail attire,” and you’ll want to aim for an ensemble that feels appropriate for a celebration, not something you’d wear to work or to brunch.

Semi-formal weddings often mean you have the world as your oyster. I find that for weddings like this, I usually already have something I can wear in my closet. Opt for lighter fabrics and colors for daytime weddings—think cotton, chiffon, crepe, or a floral print in soft hues. For evening events, go with darker shades, luxurious fabrics like satin or velvet, and more structured silhouettes.

While you don’t need a tuxedo or a true gown, you should definitely avoid overly casual items like jeans, sneakers, or T-shirts. A well-tailored outfit paired with thoughtful accessories is the foundation of a successful semi-formal look.

Women have plenty of flexibility regarding semi-formal wedding outfits, but that can also make it harder to decide what to wear. The good news? You have more options than just dresses.

Wedding Guest Dresses by Venue

Cocktail dresses, midi dresses, and full-length options are all perfect for semi-formal events. Look for classic silhouettes in luxe fabrics like silk, chiffon, lace, or crepe. Satin and velvet are especially lovely for fall and winter weddings, while cotton or lightweight chiffon works well for summer.

Black cocktail dresses for wedding guests are a timeless and elegant choice for evening events. Just be sure to choose one with a celebratory feel—avoid styles that are too somber or suited for a funeral. Maxi dresses work too, as long as the style isn’t overly formal (like a ball gown) or too casual (like a beach cover-up).

Garden Ceremony

Try a floral midi dress with nude block heels (these Kia block heels are dressy but stable, so you don’t sink into the ground) and a straw clutch. This Climbing Cosmos Valerie Dress would be perfect for a garden ceremony! I’m a fan of the playful puff sleeves and happy print, especially for a ceremony held outdoors, since it’s less stuffy in general.

This Blue Leafy Floral Maeve Midi Dress is another fun option in a colorful print, or you can’t go wrong with the Ellie Maxi Nap Dress from Hill House. For a soft, romantic look, add delicate gold jewelry (anything from my Mejuri favorites would be perfect).

Beach Ceremony

Beach weddings are always more casual than other venues, no matter the attire. For dresses, err on the side of a breezy cotton or crepe maxi dress in a soft pastel or tropical print (midi or maxi length is ideal since it’ll be windy). This Exclusive Green Fish Top Maxi Dress from Farm Rio screams beach wedding. It’s relaxed and flowy, and the fish embroidery nods to the location. I’d pair it with flat sandals (or a low block heel if you really want to wear a heel!) and a raffia clutch.

This Blue and White Floral Halter-Neck Jenny Midi Dress is another great beach wedding option because of its cutout and open back. It’s playful and fun while still feeling elevated for a semi-formal wedding.

Church Ceremony

For a more traditional wedding ceremony held in a church, I would go for a lace midi dress (and bring a wrap or pashmina like this silk scarf from Quince for the actual ceremony, as you may want to cover your shoulders). Pair it with these nude Hazel pumps, a dressy clutch like this Champagne Bow option, and understated jewelry.

This Lace Midi Dress from ASTR The Label is the perfect semi-formal option (use TERILYN15 for 15% off on ASTR The Label), and I’d pair it with either nude pumps or tan heels like these Annie Sandals. I also love the look of this Water Lilies Sasha Dress for something with sleeves, or this Ottilie Dress from Ulla Johnson for something that covers your shoulders but still has a fun neckline.

Mountain Ceremony

When I think of the mountains, I think of slightly darker hues (as opposed to the garden ceremony options above). This Melody dress from Few Moda in navy would be amazing. The sheer organza fabric feels summer-y, but the inner slip gives it an elegant, dressy look. The navy lends itself perfectly to the mountains as well. But if you want a more colorful option, this Vienne Dress (also from Few Moda!) would work well. The material is a mix of crushed velvet on light chiffon, blending a dressy fabric with something more casual. For both of these dresses, I’d stick to a simple heel like the Annie sandals or these Sam Edelman Kia sandals.

Event Space or Ballroom

A black dress for wedding guests is a chic, foolproof choice. Pair with statement earrings, a sleek clutch like this gold beaded clutch from Tiana Designs, and strappy heels (I love these Annie sandals). I love the Sawyer dress from Few Moda as a black option. It’s full-length, but it doesn’t feel too dressy to me. Or this Pleated Cocktail Dress from Hutch for a fun spin (can’t beat that fun pleated skirt). And if you prefer something more form-fitting, this Elodie The Label Cora One-Shoulder Knit Midi Dress is definitely semi-formal.

Shoes

Shoes can make or break your outfit. For women, heels, strappy sandals, or pointed-toe flats strike the perfect balance of style and comfort. In cooler months, opt for closed-toe pumps that work with the terrain and temperature. Avoid sneakers, flip-flops, or overly casual shoes. For beach or garden weddings, wedges or flats can help prevent sinking into soft ground, while elegant mules or slingbacks work beautifully for indoor venues.

My favorite heels for summer events are the Larroude Annie Sandal. They’re simple, classy, and dressy without feeling overdone. While they’re a bit pricey, I think they’re a worthy investment since they match practically everything. If you need a block heel because you’ll be outside, these Olivia Dune Knot Mid-Heel Sandals are a great option (see some affordable options that look a lot like that designer brand in this post), or you could go for these Sam Edleman Kia sandals. I also just ordered these Jullian Platform Dress Sandals and think they’d be great with a mini dress.

Accessories

Accessories can add that perfect touch of elegance. Choose a clutch or small handbag (you can’t go wrong with this Natural Raffia Bailey Pleated Clutch or Rowen Raffia Envelope Clutch for summer weddings), delicate jewelry, and a polished hairstyle. Sunglasses are appropriate for outdoor summer weddings—just opt for classic frames like this Fisher style from Warby Parker. For cooler months or evening weddings, layer with a fitted blazer, shawl, or tailored coat.

I always reach for my favorite Mejuri jewelry when opting for something delicate.

Non-Dress Options for Semi-Formal Weddings

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are a great alternative to dresses. Structured and tailored styles in elevated fabrics offer a chic and modern take on the dress code. Choose one with clean lines in a fabric like crepe or satin – this High-Neck Draped Jumpsuit from Abercrombie is a great example. Add heels and statement earrings for an effortlessly polished look. Boden makes a classy Clarissa Jumpsuit that would definitely feel appropriate for a semi-formal wedding.

A wedding pantsuit (women’s styles, especially in luxe fabrics or soft tailoring) can be a powerful, elegant choice. Look for satin, silk blends, or crepe for a feminine touch that still feels polished and party-appropriate. This Damara Magenta Floral Appliqué One-Shoulder Jumpsuit is such a unique and fun option.

Skirts and Separates

Pair a midi or knee-length skirt with a silk or lace blouse, or try dressy wide-leg trousers (the Obe Pant would be fabulous) with a fitted top and blazer. This is a great option if you want something comfortable and stylish. One of my favorite skirt-set options for a wedding is by Julia Amory. The Ball Skirt paired with one of her structured tops, like the Blair Top, is such a special set for a wedding. It does err on the dressy side because of the Silk Dupioni fabric, so keep that in mind. A more casual option for a summer wedding is this Pink Multi Floral Scalloped Calla Top paired with the matching Carter skirt.

Final Thoughts

Semi-formal wedding attire offers that perfect middle ground: dressy enough for a celebration, but flexible enough to show off your personal style. Whether you choose a silk midi dress, a tailored suit, or an elegant jumpsuit, the key is to look refined, comfortable, and ready to celebrate.

So when in doubt, lean into elevated fabrics, thoughtful accessories, and a polished fit. This dress code may have a wide range, but it all comes down to honoring the couple’s big day while feeling confident and appropriately dressed.

Now you’re ready to RSVP yes—with style.

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