Dress codes
How to dress to different dress codes
Mastering the art of wedding guest attire is about balancing tradition with personal style. At Tiger of Sweden, our heritage in tailoring allows us to redefine classic wedding dress codes with a modern Scandinavian edge.
Whether you are looking for a precision-cut tuxedo, a fluid satin midi dress, or a breathable linen suit for a destination wedding or summer wedding, this dress code guide ensures you arrive with confidence and effortless sophistication.
White-Tie
White tie, or Frack, is the peak of formal attire, reserved for royal galas and prestigious ceremonies.
For Men: The Tailcoat & Contrast
- The Tailcoat: A black or midnight blue wool tailcoat with silk peak lapels, cut short in front with knee-length tails. The signature slim fit ensures a contemporary, narrow profile.
- The Trousers: Matching wool trousers with double silk braids. Worn high with suspenders to maintain a seamless line.
- Shirt & Waistcoat: A stiff wing-collar shirt with a piqué bib, paired with a mandatory white piqué waistcoat cut to a modern, bulk-free fit.
- Accessories: A self-tied white piqué bow tie, mother-of-pearl studs, and black patent leather Oxfords.
For Women: Regal Modernity
- The Gown: A grand, floor-length evening gown is essential. While black tie allows for some flexibility, white tie requires a full-scale gown. Opt for dramatic silhouettes or sleek, column-like shapes in heavy silk, satin, or premium crepe.
- The Accessories: A structural evening clutch and "hero" jewelry pieces—like a singular striking necklace—rather than cluttered layers. Pair with elegant evening pumps or sandals.
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Black-Tie
Black tie is the standard for formal sophistication: The formal wedding guest attire is typically reserved for elegant evening events.
For Men: The Tuxedo
- The Dinner Jacket: A black or midnight blue tuxedo jacket with satin or silk grosgrain lapels—either peak or shawl. Tiger of Sweden’s signature slim cut ensures the tuxedo blazer follows the body’s natural lines for a sharp, modern silhouette.
- The Trousers: Matching trousers with a single silk stripe down the outer leg. These are typically worn without belt loops to ensure a clean, tailored waist.
- Shirt & Waistcoat: A crisp white formal shirt with a turndown collar (rather than a wing collar). A low-cut black waistcoat or cummerbund is traditional, but not required.
- Accessories: A black silk bow tie, black onyx or silver studs, and polished black patent leather Oxfords or loafers.
For Women: Sophisticated Fluidity
- The Dress: A floor-length evening gown is the standard, though a sophisticated cocktail dress or a sharp, tailored female tuxedo is also appropriate.
- The Aesthetic: Focus on refined minimalism. Look for subtle details like deep-V necklines, open backs, or structured draping that allows the quality of the fabric to speak for itself.
- The Accessories: A sleek, minimalist clutch and curated jewelry. Unlike the "hero" pieces of white tie, black tie allows for more contemporary, versatile styling. Finish the look with strappy evening sandals or pointed-toe pumps.
Formal or Dark Suit
The formal dress code—often referred to as "Dark Suit"—is the versatile standard for business functions, weddings, and upscale dinners, balancing traditional elegance with modern professional style.
For Men: The Tailored Suit
- The Suit: A well-tailored suit in charcoal, navy, or black. Tiger of Sweden’s signature slim-cut tailoring ensures the silhouette remains sharp and contemporary.
- The Shirt: A crisp, high-quality white or light blue dress shirt with a classic turndown collar and button cuffs.
- Neckwear & Details: A silk tie in a subtle pattern or solid deep hue. While a pocket square adds a touch of personality, the overall look remains grounded in refined minimalism.
- Footwear: Polished leather Oxfords or Derbies in black or dark brown, paired with matching dress socks.
For Women: Polished Elegance
- The Attire: A sophisticated cocktail dress, an elegant midi-length skirt, or a sharp, tailored pantsuit. The formal code offers more flexibility than black tie while maintaining a high standard of grace.
- The Aesthetic: Look for architectural necklines, clean-lined blazers, or fluid fabrics like wool crepe and heavy silk that transition perfectly from afternoon to evening.
- The Accessories: A structured leather clutch or small shoulder bag and refined, understated jewelry. Complete the ensemble with classic pointed-toe pumps or elegant block heels.
Semi- Formal & Cocktail Attire
The semi-formal or cocktail dress code is the bridge between day and night, perfect for gallery openings, modern weddings, and festive evening gatherings.
For Men: The Modern Separate
- The Suit or Blazer: A well-fitted suit in lighter shades of grey, blue, or seasonal tones—or a sharp blazer paired with coordinated trousers.
- The Shirt: A premium button-down shirt in white, soft pastels, or subtle patterns. While a tie is optional, the collar should remain crisp and structured to maintain a professional edge.
- The Details: Skip the tuxedo studs for a clean button front. Incorporate a pocket square or a high-quality leather belt to add a touch of personality to the minimalist aesthetic.
- Footwear: Polished leather loafers, Chelsea boots, or classic Derbies. This code allows for more textural variety, such as suede or pebbled leather.
For Women: Versatile Chic
- The Attire: The iconic cocktail dress—typically knee to midi-length—or a sophisticated silk jumpsuit. Tiger of Sweden emphasizes architectural draping and fluid fabrics that offer movement and effortless elegance.
- The Aesthetic: This is the space for playful yet refined details. Think asymmetrical hemlines, interesting cut-outs, or bold monochromatic looks that command attention without the weight of a full gown.
- The Accessories: A small, elegant clutch and contemporary jewelry. You can lean into more expressive "statement" pieces while keeping the overall look curated. Match with a classic stiletto or a chic, strappy sandal. The goal is a balanced look that feels ready for a toast and a dance floor alike.
Casual
The casual dress code is the ultimate expression of "effortless refinement," designed for weekend city life, creative workspaces, and relaxed social gatherings.
For Men: The Elevated Essential
- The Layer: A premium jersey tee, a structured overshirt, or a fine-knit merino wool sweater. Tiger of Sweden’s signature slim-cut ensures that even the most relaxed pieces maintain a sharp, intentional silhouette.
- The Trousers: High-quality denim in a dark wash or tailored chinos. The fit is key—clean lines and a tapered leg prevent the look from appearing unpolished.
- The Details: Leave the tie and formal studs. Focus on texture and monochromatic layering to create depth within a minimalist aesthetic.
- Footwear: Clean, minimalist leather sneakers or heritage-inspired boots. The goal is comfort without sacrificing a sophisticated edge.
For Women: Effortless Minimalism
- The Attire: A versatile slip dress, high-waisted tailored trousers paired with a crisp tee, or a relaxed knit set. This code is about ease and the beauty of everyday wear.
- The Aesthetic: Prioritize comfort through premium fabrics like organic cotton, soft wool, and silk blends. Look for oversized blazers or fluid shapes that offer a modern, architectural feel.
- The Accessories: A functional yet stylish leather tote or a crossbody bag. Jewelry should be personal and understated. Sleek leather slides, loafers, or high-end sneakers. The result is a polished ensemble that feels authentic and unforced.
