couple wearing peach tulle wedding dress and black groom tuxedo for formal wedding

White-Tie Attire for Wedding Guests

Photography by Daisy Bell Photography

White Tie Dress Code for Women: What to Wear to an Ultra-Formal Wedding

Got a white-tie wedding invite? Time to pull out all the stops and live your ultimate Cinderella moment! If you’ve had time to read our complete guide on all the different wedding guest dress codes, you’ll know that white tie is the crème de la crème of dress codes, white tie is all about glitz, glamour, and sticking to the grand traditions.

It might sound daunting, but trust us - this is your chance to embrace a rare opportunity to look seriously fancy. From stunning gowns to show-stopping accessories, we’ve got everything you need to ensure you’re ready to shine. 


The 24 Best White Tie Wedding Dress Code Outfit & 9 Accessory Ideas for Women

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ASOS White Tie Dress Code Ideas

A white tie wedding guest dress code doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be forking out on a pricey, luxury gown, and ASOS wedding guest dresses show just that. An easy way to adhere to a white tie dress code is by paying attention to dresses with luxe, high-shine fabrics and textures, like tulle and ruffles that promise to give the gowns a little extra oomph. Opt for wedding guest dresses with rich colour palettes, like jewel-toned reds and greens for another easy way to ensure your affordable dress looks and feels expensive. With both styles around the £100 & under mark, ASOS shows that you don’t need to splash the cash for a white-tie-wedding-worthy look

Lace & Beads Bow Shoulder Tiered Tulle Maxi Dress in Emerald

 bow shoulder tiered tulle white tie maxi dress in emerald

TFNC Satin High Halterneck Maxi Dress in Berry

satin high halterneck maxi white tie dress in berry

Club L White Tie Dress Code Ideas

Club L London is known for its elevated formalwear, but with a modern and trendy touch. If you’re hunting for a gorgeous gown that perfectly adheres to the white-tie wedding dress code, but with a slinky, sexy touch - Club L London is the brand for you. While when dressing for formal occasions, a muted, or dark colour palette often feels like the obvious go-to, we’re here to break that stereotype. Don’t immediately disregard colour, and this elegant dark pink chiffon gown with a statement cape is perfect for a white tie wedding guest dress. Otherwise, for a more classic choice, we love this monochrome number with a bardot bow neckline - ideal for fans of the bow trend resurgence. Looking for something satin, instead? These olive and black full-length gowns offer timeless elegance, perfect for wedding guests all year round. 

Envy Dark Pink High-Neck Maxi Dress With Chiffon Cape

dark pink high-neck maxi dress with chiffon cape

Eva Black & White Bardot Bow Detail Maxi Dress With Thigh Split

black and white bardot bow detail maxi dress with thigh split

Freesia Olive Satin Asymmetric Draped Split Maxi Dress

olive satin asymmetric draped split maxi dress

Kimberly Black Bardot Fishtail Satin Maxi Dress

black bardot fishtail satin white tie maxi dress

Coast White Tie Dress Code Ideas

Coast is renowned for its wedding range, supplying everything from gorgeous wedding dresses to bridesmaid dresses, wedding guest dresses, shoes, bags and accessories. You’ll find an abundance of classic styles and staple silhouettes, perfect for formal and white-tie occasions all year round. While our chosen styles are - technically speaking - bridesmaid dresses, we think they’re ideal for white-tie wedding guests, too! Both in a gorgeous navy tone, whether you prefer something full-skirted and elaborate or a dress that’s slinky and formfitting - Coast is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding needs. 

Coast Plunge Waterfall Bridesmaids Maxi Dress

plunge waterfall white tie maxi dress code idea for bridesmaids and wedding guests

Coast Satin Back Crepe Tie Shoulder Bridesmaids Dress

satin back crepe tie shoulder white tie dress for bridesmaids and wedding guests

Mac Duggal White Tie Dress Code Ideas

If you’re looking for an expert brand in occasion, evening and cocktail attire - look no further than Mac Duggal. Of all the white tie dress code ideas in this edit, these Mac Duggal dresses are some of the most high-end and elaborate! From intricate embellishments to princess-style ballgown skirts, and trendy ruffle designs - Mac Duggal dresses promise to make the ultimate statement. Whether you prefer sleek and sparkly black gowns, or something with a pop of colour. Mac Duggal is one of the best destinations for white-tie wedding guest dresses

Jersey Gown With Embellished Flower

jersey long sleeve white tie gown with embellished flower and leg split

Pleated High Neck Raglan Long Sleeve Side Slit Gown

pleated high neck raglan long sleeve side slit white tie gown

Ruffle Shoulder V-Neck Chiffon Gown

ruffle shoulder v-neck chiffon blue white tie gown with full skirt

Strapless Embellished Top Satin Ballgown

strapless embellished top satin white tie ballgown

Ever Pretty White Tie Dress Code Ideas

If you’re looking for an ultra-affordable option for white-tie wedding guest dresses, head to Ever Pretty, where you’ll find a complete Wedding Shop - full of stunning styles for everyone from the bride to bridesmaids and guests. If you’re a fan of all things sparkly, you’ll love nothing more than these embellished dresses in black and green. Whether you want a classic, slinky evening dress with a statement high leg slit, or something elegant and classy with flutter sleeves and a flowing aline skirt - Ever Pretty has many affordable white tie wedding guest dresses, most being comfortably under £100

Embellished Tulle Flutter Sleeve A Line Evening Dress In Black

v neck embellished tulle flutter sleeve a line evening white tie maxi dress in black

Elegant Sequin V Neck High Slit Evening Dress

elegant sequin v neck high slit evening white tie dress in green

Karen Millen White Tie Dress Code Ideas

Karen Millen has been a go-to on the high street since 2009, offering elevated yet accessible fashion for women. Their formal and occasionwear collection is all about black, monochrome, and embellished designs. Expect standout styles perfect for a white-tie wedding, from glamorous open-back gowns with intricate details to full-on sparkle. You'll also find floral textures, oversized bows, and structured black-and-white looks that tap into 2024's monochrome trend. With these options, you'll not only be on theme, but one of the trendiest guests there, too!

Crystal Embellished Halter Woven Maxi Dress

crystal embellished halter woven white tie maxi dress

Floral Applique Crystal Embellished Woven Maxi Rosette Maxi Dress

floral applique crystal embellished woven white tie maxi rosette dress

Soft Tailored Waterfall Hem High Neck Midi Dress

tailored waterfall hem high neck white tie style midi dress

Textured Rosette Bow Detail Prom Dress

textured rosette bow detail midi white tie dress

Jarlo London White Tie Dress Code Ideas

Jarlo London exclusively provides stunning occasionwear that channels Hollywood glamour and vintage decadence through its statement, formal dresses perfect for white-tie weddings. Whether you’re searching for something bold and structured design with a dramatic silhouette, sleek scuba fabric and exaggerated puff sleeves - creating a modern, high-fashion look - ideal for making an entrance. Or, a timeless gown, perfect for those seeking classic elegance, featuring a full skirt and strapless neckline - both ideas for nailing the white-tie dress code.

Jacinda One Shoulder Exaggerated Puff Sleeve Scuba Maxi Dress

one shoulder exaggerated puff sleeve scuba maxi white tie dress in green

Julie V-Neck Strapless Maxi Dress

v-neck strapless white tie maxi dress in black with full skirt

Phase Eight White Tie Dress Code Ideas

Phase Eight is renowned for its elegant occasionwear, making it a go-to for all dress codes from white-tie weddings to laidback beach vibes. Phase Eight is another high street brand that offers something for everyone when it comes to weddings, not only style-wise but no matter what part you’re playing on the big day, too! To showcase some of our favourite pieces for white-tie weddings, the Simara Sequin Pleat Midi Dress in soft gold shimmers with every step, perfect for adding a touch of glamour. Meanwhile, the Donna Maxi Dress offers a timeless silhouette that exudes sophistication - ideal for guests looking for a style they can re-wear and re-love for multiple special occasions, from date nights to theatre trips. For more stunning options, check out Phase Eight's Wedding Guest Edit.

Simara Sequin Pleat Midi Dress, Soft Gold

sequin pleat white tie midi dress for wedding guests in a soft gold

Donna Maxi Dress

scarlet red white tie dress with boat neckline, ruching at both the front and back, and high low hem

Reiss White Tie Dress Code Ideas

Reiss is a brand synonymous with sophisticated style, and their selection for white-tie weddings is no exception. If you want to make a statement, recruit no other than the Esra Sequin Halston Plunge Neck Sequin Maxi Dress! It promises to sparkle with elegance, featuring a daring plunge and a beautiful maxi-length skirt, making it perfect for the most formal of occasions - especially for weddings that take place during party season. Meanwhile, the Fae Satin Cape Dress combines classic refinement with a contemporary twist - thanks to its flowing cape detail. Both dresses ensure you'll stand out for all the right reasons at any glamorous affair.

Esra Sequin Halston Plunge Neck Sequin Maxi Dress

sequin plunge neck white tie maxi dress

Fae Satin Cape Dress

satin high neck white tie maxi dress with attached scarf-cape in dark green

White Tie Accessory Ideas for Women

Getting your white-tie wedding attire spot on isn't just about the dress you wear. As we all know, the devil's in the details, and accessories play a huge role in elevating your look. Think opera-style gloves that add a touch of elegance and statement earrings or necklaces that can bring just the right amount of sparkle. These finishing touches not only complete your outfit but also express your unique style, making you shine at the event. Let’s explore some stunning accessory ideas to enhance your white-tie ensemble!

Sofia Tulle Opera Glove, Cornelia James

white ostrich feather opera gloves for white tie weddings

shop now | £205

These ethereal gloves add a romantic touch to any outfit, featuring soft tulle fabric that flows gracefully and an on-trend feather trim. Perfect for adding an air of elegance to your white-tie look.

Bella Women's Long Opera Satin Gloves, Dents Gloves

soft satin full-length opera gloves in black for white tie weddings

shop now | £25

Crafted from smooth satin, these long opera gloves exude classic charm. They are perfect for making a statement while complementing any evening gown at a white-tie wedding.

Portofino Bow Gloves, Free People

sheer gloves in a classic long style with statement bow appliques in dusky pink for white tie weddings

shop now | £68

These playful gloves feature an oversized bow detail that brings a fun twist to traditional opera gloves. They’re perfect for wedding guests seeking a unique, more colourful accessory that stands out.

Statement Crystal Double Drop Earrings, Orelia

baguette shaped clear crystal stud earring with aquamarine square crystal for white tie weddings

shop now | £35

These dazzling earrings feature a stunning drop design adorned with sparkling crystals, making them a show-stopping addition to your white-tie ensemble.

Tina Drop Earrings, Hobbs

drop earrings with embellished, intricate light-catching jewels for white tie weddings

shop now | £25

With a classic silhouette and elegant detailing, the Tina Drop Earrings are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication. Their elaborate charm makes them a must-have for formal occasions.

Drop Earrings with 3D Floral Design in Gold Tone, ASOS DESIGN 

drop/ dangly earrings with 3D floral design in gold tone for white tie dress code accessories

shop now | £12

These unique earrings showcase a beautiful 3D floral design in a warm gold tone, bringing a fresh and modern twist to your accessory collection while maintaining the elegance required for white-tie weddings.

Silver Plated Blue Sapphire Pear Drop Necklace, Jon Richard 

regal pear-shaped sapphire cubic zirconia and silver plated necklace for white tie wedding dress code accessory

shop now | £72

This elegant necklace features a pear-shaped blue sapphire drop, surrounded by shimmering silver plating, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to your white-tie look.

Croce Necklace, Sonia Petroff

statement necklace with colourful gems on a string of pearls and diamantés for a white tie wedding dress code accessory

shop now | £495

The Croce Necklace boasts a stunning design that combines intricate detailing with a modern aesthetic, making it a statement piece perfect for enhancing your evening attire.

Mini Bas Relief Pearl Choker, Vivienne Westwood

single strand pearl choker with a two-dimensional orb motif at the centre of the design for white tie wedding dress code accessory

shop now | £155

This chic choker showcases lustrous pearls set in a unique bas-relief design, offering a refined and contemporary twist on classic pearl jewellery that complements any formal outfit beautifully.


Nailing the White Tie Dress Code

Nailing the white-tie dress code is about embracing elegance and sophistication from head to toe. With the right gown and carefully chosen accessories, effortlessly elevating your wedding guest look is guaranteed. So, if we had one piece of advice - don’t shy away from making bold choices that reflect your style, and you’ll be sure to shine at any white-tie event!


Wedding Guests