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Have you ever received a wedding invitation in the mail that left you completely clueless about the wedding guest dress code? Between "black-tie optional" and "semiformal," the language can be tricky to decipher. But we've got you covered. Here are the most common wedding guest dress codes explained so that you arrive appropriately—and stylishly!—dressed to the celebration.

Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, white vest and bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.

Women have options — they can go a bit dressier and wear a formal floor-length gown, or they can choose a dressy cocktail dress, paired with heels or dressy flats. Dressy pants suits are also acceptable.

Men must wear a tuxedo. A black bow tie, black vest or cummerbund, and patent leather shoes are also suggested. For summer weddings, a white dinner jacket and black tuxedo trousers are also acceptable.

The wording here indicates something slightly less formal than black tie is acceptable. So, a tuxedo isn't required, but the event is still formal enough for one to be appropriate.

The choices are the same as with black-tie: a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pants suit. As far as women are concerned, there's no difference between black-tie attire and black-tie option attire. The "optional" part comes in for the men.

Part of dressing for a semi-formal or dressy casual wedding is taking the time of the wedding into account. Wear darker, more formal colors for an evening wedding; opt for light colors and fabrics for a daytime event.

Try a cocktail dress or a dressy skirt and top. An elegant pantsuit is also appropriate. Floor-length gowns, however, would be inappropriate. Pair with heels, nice wedges or elegant flats. Note: If the ceremony is being held outdoors, and you'll be walking across lawn, avoid traditional heels that will likely get stuck in the grass!

This dress code is relatively new, and will leave many guests scratching their heads. Basically, guests are given the go-ahead to have fun and play with their look. Opt for cocktail-party attire featuring bolder colors and playful accessories.

Women should wear a cocktail dress or party dress in a fun color, paired with playful accessories and heels or dressy flats.

This indicates the wedding will likely be held outdoors or on the beach, meaning the event will be much more laid-back, especially when it comes to attire. That said, jeans, shorts, and tank tops are probably not appropriate unless they're specifically noted as acceptable.

A summer sundress is appropriate (just make sure the fabric isn't overly formal). Wedges or dressy sandals are perfect footwear for a casual wedding, but sandals and sneakers are not.

Wear dress pants or khaki pants with a collared shirt tie. You can add a tie or sport jacket if you'd like, but it's not required. If it's chilly, feel free to add a sweater, as well. Steer clear of any t-shirts or tennis shoes.

Tropical weddings are usually humid and hot affairs, and you have to dress accordingly. Remember, always err on the dressier side of caution. If you're not sure if what you're planning to wear is dressy enough, it's probably not. Upgrade it a notch and you're certain to be just fine.

As with a casual wedding, look for cotton sundresses and nice sandals or wedges. If the wedding is being held outside and the weather is blazing, consider topping the look off with a sunhat.

Guayabera shirts almost always count as appropriate wedding attire in the tropics. Known more commonly as "Mexican wedding shirts," these short-sleeved, button-down shirts usually have decorative square pockets, and often have embroidery. They're available in a huge variety of colors and styles. Most designer labels also have their own version of the guayabera, if you're looking for something a little fancier.

Although linen shirts and pants are also appropriate for a tropical wedding, be cautious in selecting them when you're travelling. Linen usually wrinkles easily, and there may not be a dry cleaner to press it back out in a more remote destination. Don't wear shorts unless specifically instructed to do so.

There are a few rules that apply to all dress codes across the board. Whether you're wearing casual or black-tie attire, avoid all of the following faux pas.

Pick any other color to wear to the wedding. Wearing white will just have heads turning in your direction for all of the wrong reasons. Plus, it will most likely upset the bride, who won't want to feel anything but pleased by her guests throughout the night. The only exception, of course, is if the couple has specifically asked all the guests to wear white — in which case, respect their request and find yourself a white outfit (here are tips for what to wear to a wedding with an all-white dress code!

If you can get a heads up on the style and color of the dress the bridesmaids will be wearing, try to avoid wearing anything similar. If not, you may have to spend the night explaining to everyone that you're not a bridesmaid and you didn't mean to dress like one.

Whether or not the dress code is black tie, try not to under-dress for the wedding. Unless it was stated that wearing jeans is okay, try to at least wear clothes that you would feel comfortable wearing to a formal office party.

It's a party, so you might be tempted to dress like you're heading out to a nightclub, but remember for a wedding, you should keep it classy. You'll be surrounded by someone else's family and friends so keep it appropriate.

2018 Condé Nast. All rights reserved. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 5/25/18 ) and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement (updated 5/25/18 ) and Your California Privacy Rights. Brides may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. Ad Choices