Southern Style Meets Sophisticated Dress Code
If you’ve received a wedding invitation that says “Formal Attire,” don’t panic. This isn’t prom, and it’s not a red carpet event either. Texas brides asking for formal weddings are usually looking for a polished, elevated guest look, not full-length gowns and tuxedos across the board.
With that said, this dress code does mean it’s time to level up your look.
Whether the venue is in Dallas, East Texas, or out in the pines at The Abbey Rose, here’s what formal really means, what guests should wear, and how to hit the mark without overdoing it.
What Formal Wedding Attire Means in Texas
Formal wedding attire usually includes longer dresses or cocktail dresses with a more elevated silhouette, tailored suits or tuxedos, and intentional styling.
In Texas, though, this gets a Southern twist.
Wedding guests may still opt for lighter fabrics due to the heat, and you’ll often see formal looks with slightly more personality than the stiff traditional standard.
What makes it formal?
Elegant fabrics (silk, chiffon, velvet, crepe)
Structured tailoring
Elevated footwear
Polished hair, makeup, and accessories
Avoiding anything casual, rustic, or beachy
If you’re unsure how this differs from cocktail style, take a look at our full post:
What to Wear to a Texas Cocktail Wedding
Formal Wedding Guest Outfits for Women
Texas brides are planning formal weddings with bold florals, sleek venues, and candlelit receptions. You want to match the moment without looking bridal.
Great options include:
Full-length gowns or long midi dresses in luxe fabrics
Formal jumpsuits or co-ords in satin or crepe
Statement sleeves or open backs paired with minimalist accessories
Rich jewel tones or moody neutrals (blush, wine, navy, black)
Styling tips:
Bring a wrap or shawl if the venue is indoor/outdoor
Avoid white, cream, or champagne
No cotton sundresses, casual wedges, or denim of any kind
Need visual examples?
Explore formal wedding guest outfit ideas on Pinterest
What Men Should Wear to a Formal Wedding in Texas
This is the moment for tailored suits and timeless accessories.
Recommended looks:
Navy, charcoal, or black suit with a collared shirt and tie
Optional tuxedo for ultra-formal evening weddings
Dress shoes in black or brown leather
Pocket square or tie clip for polish
Skip these:
Cowboy boots (unless specifically encouraged by the couple)
No ties or open collars — unless the wedding leans semi-formal
Sport coats with jeans or anything denim-adjacent
Bonus: If you’re a guest at The Abbey Rose, our wooded paths and modern reception space pair well with classic styles that feel both grounded and refined.
Color and Season Tips for Texas Formal Weddings
Spring / Summer
Lighter fabrics like chiffon or crepe
Colors: sage, blush, champagne, sky blue
Tip: Watch for wind if you’re wearing a slit or lightweight fabric
Fall / Winter
Heavier fabrics like velvet, silk, or wool blends
Colors: burgundy, hunter green, deep navy, gold
Tip: Bring a coat or structured wrap for outdoor photo moments
What Not to Wear to a Formal Wedding
Let’s be clear. If the invitation says formal, you should not be wearing:
Sundresses or anything overly casual
Jeans, shorts, or sneakers
Daytime prints, boho styles, or flip flops
Anything that could be confused for bridal (white, cream, or sequins)
Want to Help Your Wedding Guests Get It Right?
If you’re the bride planning a formal wedding in Texas, make the dress code easier for guests.
Add outfit examples to your wedding website
Include colors or styling tips on the FAQ page
Create a Pinterest board with mood boards and inspiration
You can even link to this blog post:
What to Wear to a Formal Wedding in Texas
A Formal Wrap-Up
A formal wedding in Texas doesn’t mean stiff or uncomfortable. It means you’re expected to be intentional. Dress like you’re attending something elegant, personal, and worth celebrating.
Show up looking polished and ready to toast the couple. If you’re planning your own formal wedding near Dallas, The Abbey Rose offers a moody, modern venue that fits the moment perfectly.
Discover more from The Abbey Rose Wedding Venue
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