Dress Code Décoded: What to Wear as a Wedding Guest – Spring/Summer 2025 Edition
As a leading event planner in Geneva and specialist in luxury events across Switzerland and Europe, Brightside Group is often asked the same question: What should I wear to the wedding? And it’s a good one.
In a world of evolving traditions and bespoke celebrations, the wedding dress code is no longer a formality – it’s part of the storytelling. Whether you’re attending an elegant elopement in the Swiss Alps, a mariage sur mesure at a château near Geneva, or a charity gala in the heart of the city, knowing how to dress appropriately is essential.
So, we’ve created this guide to help you navigate Spring/Summer 2025 wedding dress codes with confidence and style – always aligned with the elegance expected at exclusive events in Switzerland.
Why Dress Codes Matter
For couples planning their destination wedding in Switzerland, or for event hosts working with a professional event planner, every element of the event – including guest attire – contributes to the atmosphere. Dress codes ensure visual harmony, respect for the occasion, and an elevated guest experience.
From a coordination perspective, it’s also essential. At Brightside, we handle full-service wedding planning and event production, which includes guiding guests when requested. But if you’re attending a wedding, here are a few essentials to know.
The Main Dress Codes, Explained
1. White Tie / Black Tie
Reserved for the most formal weddings in Geneva or prestigious gala dinners, these dress codes require timeless elegance.
- DO: Floor-length evening gowns, tuxedos with bow ties, classic accessories
- DON’T: Cocktail dresses, casual shoes, loud colors
Perfect for: Luxury weddings, charity events, or exclusive corporate evenings
2. Formal / Cocktail Attire
The most common for premium wedding services and bespoke weddings, cocktail attire is chic and stylish.
- DO: Midi or knee-length dresses, tailored suits, elegant heels
- DON’T: Jeans, casual jackets, oversized accessories
Ideal for: Mariages haute gamme, corporate soirées, or destination weddings in Switzerland.
3. Smart Casual
Perfect for modern elopements in Switzerland, garden weddings, or personalized events in smaller venues.
- DO: Sophisticated day dresses, flowing skirts, linen pants, light summer suits
- DON’T: Flip-flops, distressed denim, overly relaxed attire
Smart casual can be tricky, but we advise: when in doubt, elevate slightly. Better overdressed than under.
4. Beach Chic / Outdoor Elegance
Popular in lakeside ceremonies or countryside mariages sur mesure, this dress code allows more freedom but requires thoughtfulness.
- DO: Linen, cotton, silk, wedges, hats, layered accessories
- DON’T: Stilettos on grass, swimwear, flip-flops
Great for: Destination weddings in Europe or intimate outdoor wedding productions.
Universal DOs & DON’Ts for Wedding Guests
Whatever the dress code, a few golden rules always apply:
- DO: Respect the invitation and theme, coordinate your look, ask if unsure
- DON’T: Wear white (unless invited), dress inappropriately for religious venues, outshine the couple
As a wedding planner and event production agency coordinating dozens of events in Geneva and throughout Europe, we always recommend refined, respectful elegance.
A Final Word from our Team
At Brightside, our role goes beyond planning – we curate entire experiences. Whether it’s event coordination, charity events, mariage à Genève, or corporate celebrations, we design with intention and excellence.
Our expertise includes:
- Full-service wedding planning
- Gala dinner organization
- Elegant event production
- Elopements and exclusive weddings in Switzerland
- Personalized corporate and cultural events
So, whether you’re the host or the guest, knowing how to present yourself is a small but meaningful part of creating lasting memories.