Our Guide to Wedding Outfits by Dress Code

Formal attire is a notch below black tie, which means this is the time to go for long or midi dresses. We love this one-shouldered pleated number ($200) in a rich blue hue and this elegant satin maxi ($105, originally $180) with a twisted, halter-style neckline. If you're a little worried your dress isn't quite formal enough, fancy accessories will always help you cross the finish line. That means ornate shoes ($995), a regal necklace ($990), or even some sparkling hair accessories ($495).

Think of cocktail attire as a little less fancy than formal (you can totally go with a short dress here) and a step above what you'd wear to, say, a nice dinner on any given evening. Think about materials, too. Thin linen and cotton dresses will generally be a bit too casual for cocktail attire. Stick to silk, satin, polyester, and nylon in shapes that are a little more bold, flirty, and fun than your everyday wear.

We love the open back and fluttery sleeves of this little dress ($220), not to mention the vibrant colors it comes in. The whimsical back and precious bow of this mini ($200) make it a perfect cocktail dress, too. When it comes to heels — you'll want heels for a cocktail look — go for something strappy and maybe even metallic, like these sandals ($795). For finishing touches, grab a pair of dangling earrings or a bold, sparkling cuff ($295) for some eye-catching glitz.

Garden-party attire is, well, just what it sounds like. Generally, garden parties will be a daytime event, so that means a little less formal than an evening cocktail event. When you're shopping for a garden-party event, look for flowy dresses (short or maxi will do), prints, bold colors, and, unsurprisingly, lots of florals.

We've picked two solid-colored dresses to feature here: one mini ($160) and one midi ($300). Both are in vibrant garden-party-ready colors in sophisticated silhouettes. To keep on theme, pick up a pair of floral earrings ($490) and metallic shoes ($395). And remember, just because the event isn't formal doesn't mean you can't have some sparkles.

It's possible you already have items for a dressy-casual event right in your closet. These are pieces you may wear to work with a blazer or a nice night out. Pick out pieces that make you think, "Hey, that's nice." Some hard and fast rules: no denim or pants with holes, and no gowns (or you'll feel way overdressed). With dressy casual, you can wear a nice pantsuit or jumpsuit, too.

This tiered wrap dress ($170) would make an excellent option. Choose a darker color for an evening event (perhaps black or red) or a patterned blue floral in the daytime. You could also go with this balloon-sleeve mini ($200), which offers a flattering A-line fit. When it comes to shoes, you don't need to wear sky-high stilettos. Instead, opt for a wedge ($395) or some espadrilles. Jewelry doesn't need to be too bold, either: a lovely pair of gold hoops ($575) would be just perfect.