Wedding season is here, and with it comes the dilemma of what to wear. Gone are the days of simply choosing a nice outfit for a wedding; now, dress codes, color palettes, and shopping guides are becoming increasingly specific. Couples like Lauren and Jackson England are setting the tone for their special day with detailed wardrobe instructions for guests.
For their safari wedding in Ranthambore, India, the Englands wanted the dress code to reflect the surroundings. They opted for a “classic heritage Ralph Lauren” theme, communicating their vision to guests well in advance. While their creative friends enjoyed the challenge, some guests, like their mothers, felt a bit overwhelmed by the specific guidelines.
Other couples, like Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani, are also providing extensive wardrobe guidance for their events. For a recent pre-wedding celebration in Jamnagar, India, guests received a nine-page document detailing themes like “jungle fever” and “heritage Indian,” complete with runway photos and designer campaign images for inspiration. Even the expected weather conditions were listed to help guests plan their outfits accordingly.
Wedding planner Sarah Haywood notes that weddings today are meticulously designed, with mood boards helping to convey the destination, venue, and event design to guests. This level of detail ensures that everyone is appropriately dressed for the occasion, whether it’s a safari wedding in India or a cruise in Europe.
With weddings becoming more elaborate and themed, guests are faced with the challenge of finding the perfect outfit that fits the dress code while still reflecting their personal style. Whether it’s “unicorn hues” or “Italian summer” attire, guests are expected to adhere to the couple’s vision for their special day.
As wedding season continues, it’s clear that dress codes are becoming more specific and detailed. Guests should be prepared to follow the couple’s guidance and put together an outfit that not only meets the requirements but also captures the essence of the event. So, the next time you receive a detailed dress code for a wedding, embrace the challenge and have fun with it while respecting the couple’s wishes for their special day.
