Fabrics like silk, satin or tulle are well-suited for evening ceremonies. [2] X Research source Watch the length of your dress. A mini is too informal and is inappropriate for most weddings, but especially evening weddings. Wear a dress that is knee length or tea length.

Sequins are generally considered to be too showy for a night event. It’s best to avoid them.

Wear a white dress shirt underneath your suit. Choose dress shoes that match the color of your suit and belt.

Unless specifically stated one way or the other, you will usually have an option between a standard tie or a bow tie. Bow ties work well in a tuxedo context. A regular tie should be fine, so long as it’s not particularly flashy.

Cotton or jersey fabric is perfect for a semi-formal dress. [6] X Research source Dress up when in doubt. There’s a lot of grey area in what is expected for a semi-formal event. In any case, it’s better to overdress for an occasion than to underdress for it. In one instance, you’ll look awkward. In the other, you’ll look flat-out disrespectful.

Layer your outfit with a simple dress shirt underneath. It doesn’t need to be fancy, so long as it’s clean. Wear the tie of your choice. For a semi-formal wedding, there’s usually no tie recommendation.

Sandals are an acceptable alternative in lieu of heels if the ceremony is outdoors.

Consider bringing a second set of clothing for the afterparty. Evening weddings often follow shortly after with a dinner and wedding reception. This afterparty tends to be more casual than the proceedings before it. While your reception clothing should remain elegant, you can switch up your dress for a more comfortable set such as a skirt and blouse. If you only have space for one set of clothing, aim for a formal dress that ends around the knee. That way, you’ll be free to dance if you so choose. [8] X Research source

Waving one’s hair is considered glamorous, and works well for white-tie weddings. [10] X Research source Curling hair is also a good way to match your look to the situation. Makeup can include bolder colors than you’d normally use on the street, but you shouldn’t get overly fancy with it.

For an outdoor night time ceremony, women may wear sandals instead of heels. Black socks are a given if you’re wearing dress shoes.

Broadcloth fabric is a good choice for dress shirts. [12] X Research source Because you’ll be wearing a white shirt, take care not to stain it with food, either before or during the wedding ceremony. Stains are notoriously difficult to get out of white clothing.

Silk, satin and twill are all acceptable fabrics for a black tie event bowtie.

High-class fabrics like satin, silk, velvet and tulle are perfect for a formal event. [16] X Research source Because of the dressy nature of an evening gown, it’s often a good idea to take a second, more comfortable dress along with you. That way, you’ll be able to dance more fluidly during the ceremony’s afterparty.

Off the shoulder curls are a perfect choice of hairstyle for an ultra-formal wedding ceremony. [18] X Research source Makeup should be glamorous, but not overly showy. Aim for red lipsticks, dark mascaras and eyeshadows. Fancy or playful colors should be avoided.

Although you can buy simple clip-on bowties, it’s usually seen as better form to put on one that requires manual effort.

Pique is a fancy knit fabric with a honeycomb-shaped look. [23] X Research source Underneath the vest, a white undershirt is helpful for catching sweat.

Fancy jewelry is also a great way to add uniqueness to your look.

Graphic fabrics may be worn at casual and semi-casual ceremonies.