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Dress Code Décoded: What to Wear as a Wedding Guest – Spring/Summer 2025 Edition

2 days News, Weddings
Dress Code Décoded

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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:

So, whether you’re the host or the guest, knowing how to present yourself is a small but meaningful part of creating lasting memories.