What to Wear for the Rehearsal Dinner: Wedding Guest Guide

The rehearsal dinner is more than just a pre-wedding formality. It sets the stage for the big day, giving family, close friends, and the wedding party a chance to celebrate in a more relaxed setting. For guests, it’s also the first impression you’ll make with your wedding-weekend style. While the wedding itself might come with a clear dress code, the night before often feels a bit less defined, leaving many people wondering: What should I wear to a rehearsal dinner?

This guide will break down everything you need to know about rehearsal dinner attire for wedding guests. From understanding the different types of dress codes to choosing the right suit or outfit based on the venue and season, we’ll help you navigate your choices with confidence. Whether you’re aiming for sharp and classic, modern and trendy, or relaxed but polished, you’ll walk into the event dressed to impress while still letting the couple shine.

Decoding rehearsal dinner dress codes

Sometimes the couple will list a dress code for both the big day and the rehearsal dinner on the invitation, but if not, you can usually gauge expectations by the venue, season, and general style of the wedding. Here are the most common dress codes for rehearsal dinners and what they mean for guests:

Cocktail attire

Cocktail attire strikes the perfect middle ground between formal and casual, making it one of the most common choices for rehearsal dinners. This means a suit in a versatile color like navy, charcoal, or gray, paired with a dress shirt and tie. The key here is to keep things elevated but not overly formal, think sharp but approachable.

Semi-formal

Semi-formal attire is a notch below cocktail. It’s less about strict suiting rules and more about putting together a clean, stylish outfit. You can wear separates, like dress trousers with a blazer or sport coat. Opt for a tie to add more polish, or feel free to skip it.

Formal or black tie optional

For very traditional or upscale rehearsal dinners, formal attire may be requested. You should look for a dark suit (black, navy, or charcoal) with a crisp white shirt and tie. Tuxedos are rarely necessary unless specified, but accessories should lean more polished. Go with cufflinks, pocket squares, or leather shoes with a glossy finish. 

Casual or smart casual

Some couples keep things laid-back, especially if the rehearsal dinner is hosted at a backyard, local restaurant, or beachside venue. Smart casual doesn’t mean sloppy; it means refined but relaxed. You might wear chinos and a sports coat with loafers. A suit jacket is optional here but still a good move if you want to look polished in photos.

Considering the venue and season

Let the environment of the rehearsal dinner you're attending guide what you wear. Whether you're going to a farm in the spring or a manor in the fall, the elements of the setting make a difference—and can offer some helpful starting points for your look.

When in doubt about what to wear, the space, vibe, and weather are your best clues.

• Restaurant rehearsal dinners: Upscale restaurants typically mean cocktail attire, while trendy or casual restaurants might lean more toward semi-formal.
• Outdoor venues: Garden, vineyard, or beach settings give you more freedom to embrace lighter fabrics and seasonal colors.
• Hotel or ballroom settings: These typically call for something more elevated, like formal or cocktail attire.

As for seasonal rehearsal dinner outfits:

• Spring: Lighter fabrics like cotton and linen blends work well, especially in lighter or pastel tones.
• Summer: Breathable materials are key, as are brighter, more vibrant colors that match the celebratory mood.
• Fall: Think deeper, richer hues like burgundy, forest green, and navy, paired with textured fabrics like wool or tweed.
• Winter: Darker suits and fabrics like velvet or wool blends feel right at home. Accessories like scarves or statement jewelry add warmth and personality.

Suiting up for the rehearsal dinner

If you’re set on wearing a suit, your options for rehearsal dinners are still broad.

Classic suits

A well-tailored navy, charcoal, or gray suit is always appropriate and versatile. These colors work across all dress codes, and you can adjust the level of formality with your choice of shirt, tie, and other accessories.

Seasonal colors

Rehearsal dinners give you an opportunity to experiment with color in a way you might not at the wedding itself. Try a rich burgundy or olive suit in the fall, a lighter gray or sand suit in the summer, or even something more playful like a clay or blue suit if the couple’s style leans creative.

Textured fabrics

Tweed, velvet, or linen-look fabrics add personality and seasonality to your outfit. A tweed blazer in fall or winter instantly communicates festive sophistication, while a linen suit in summer feels breezy and effortless.

Suit separates

For a semi-formal or smart casual dress code, separates are a fantastic option. Pair navy trousers with a gray blazer, or try a patterned jacket over neutral pants. Separates show style confidence and allow you to dress appropriately without being too formal.

Accessories that elevate

Accessories are the finishing touch that can make a rehearsal dinner look feel complete. Ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, and watches all add polish. If the dress code is less formal, you can skip the tie or swap leather dress shoes for loafers. If it’s more formal, lean into refined details like silk ties, shiny jewelry, or luxe fabrics in your accessories.

Don’t overlook seasonal flourishes, either. A velvet bow tie or pocket square in winter, a floral tie or in spring, or even statement shoes can set the right mood.

What to avoid wearing to a rehearsal dinner

A quick note on what not to wear: steer clear of anything too flashy or attention-grabbing that could upstage the couple. Unless explicitly invited, white or ivory suits and dresses are generally off-limits, as they’re traditionally reserved for the couple. Finally, don’t underdress. Even if the couple has opted for a casual setting, looking polished is always appreciated.

FAQs: Rehearsal dinner attire for guests

Setting the tone with your style

The rehearsal dinner may not be the main event, but it’s a meaningful celebration where your style still matters. Dressing thoughtfully shows respect for the couple and sets the tone for the weekend. The key is to stay polished, dress for the venue and season, and choose a look that feels celebratory without overshadowing the wedding itself.

Whether you reach for a classic navy suit, a bold seasonal color, or a chic women’s suit, your outfit should reflect the festive spirit of the occasion. With the right approach, you’ll feel comfortable, confident, and perfectly dressed for the start of an unforgettable wedding.