What In The World Is A Garden Formal Dress Code?

Some of you who are reading this and have known me (My) for years personally, are also aware that I used to run my own events planning and styling company back in Manila. So I’m used to being asked questions about dress codes, formality levels and wedding etiquette.

So for the sake of this post, please allow me to put on my ‘events expert’ hat for a moment in order to shed a light on what a ‘garden formal’ dress code is.

[My puts on her hat]

A lot of people often confuse a ‘garden wedding’ dress code with the ‘casual’ or ‘informal’ dress code. It’s not the same. The garden is just the type of venue. The keyword here is still ‘formal’.

Notwithstanding the location, keep in mind that you’re still attending a wedding. And all weddings, regardless of the formality level, is an elegant affair and should be treated as such.

For a garden formal wedding, you’re still going to have to wear a classy, floor-length or tea-length dress, but we’re tying in the ‘garden’ aspect. So, choose a dress that has more of a light, flowing fabric—either chiffon, tulle, lace, or satin. Tip: Bring a light jacket, bolero or wrap for after it gets dark and the temperature begins to drop.

You will also likely have to walk on grass during some parts of the wedding so your stiletto heels might not be the best choice of footwear for the wedding. For more details about footwear, click here.

When it comes to colors, refer to our official wedding palette for recommendations.

For you men, you may choose to wear a tux or a wedding suit but instead of the usual black, we prefer grey or beige. A jacket-less suit look is also acceptable—and frankly, we think it’s so GQ-esque! And later on in the evening, when it’s time to hit the dance floor, feel free to take off the tie and roll up those sleeves!

Well, since ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’, I’ll just share some pics with you to give you a more visual reference.

We’re so excited to see you rock your garden formal outfit!

[My tosses her hat]