Weddings are the perfect occasion to get dressed up and look your best; however, with so many options available, it can be tricky to decide on the perfect outfit for a 4pm wedding. The dress code for 4pm weddings is usually semi-formal, which means that you can get away with wearing a chic cocktail dress or a long flowy gown without looking overdressed.
In this article, we’ve put together some tips on what you can wear to a 4pm wedding, keeping in mind the dress code, location and weather.
1. Semi-Formal Attire
A 4pm wedding is typically a semi-formal event, which means that you can opt for a short or a long dress. A cocktail dress is an effortless option for a semi-formal wedding, and there are plenty of styles and colors to choose from. You can go for a classic LBD (little black dress) or a bold, colorful one that complements your personality and style.
If you’re not a fan of dresses, you can opt for a stylish jumpsuit, which is a perfect alternative to a dress. Pair it with some statement jewelry, killer heels, and a clutch to complete the look.
2. Elegant Gowns
If you’re looking for a more formal look, a chic long gown is a perfect choice for a 4pm wedding. Opt for a style that’s not too flashy and formal but still elegant and flattering. A floor-length gown in a muted color, such as navy blue or blush pink, is ideal for a late afternoon wedding. Alternatively, you can opt for a stylish midi-dress that falls just below the knee if you prefer a more understated look.
Left Twisting Hearts Dress, Right Saldana Vintage Beaded Dress
3. Fabrics and Prints
When it comes to fabrics and prints, you can opt for a variety of options, depending on the location and climate. If the wedding is taking place in a colder climate, you can select a gown or dress made of thicker fabrics, such as velvet, satin, or wool. If you’re headed to a beach wedding, go for a flowy, lightweight material such as chiffon or lace.
Now, when it comes to prints, muted florals, polka dots, stripes, or solid colors are all excellent options for a late afternoon wedding. Avoid excessively bold prints or highly saturated colors, as these tend to be more appropriate for evening events.
4. Footwear and Accessories
When it comes to shoes and accessories, it’s best to keep it chic and simple. Don’t choose anything too flashy or attention-grabbing that may steal the show from the bride.
A pair of neutral-tone pumps or sandals is always a safe bet. You can go for nude heels that match your skin tone, or opt for classic black heels that go with everything.
Minimalistic jewelry such as stud earrings, a simple pendant necklace, and a delicate bracelet are enough to finish off the look. A sleek clutch or a small handbag is an excellent accessory to carry your essentials, such as your phone, lipstick, and wallet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 4pm wedding calls for semi-formal attire, so you can choose a chic cocktail dress or a long gown. When it comes to fabrics and prints, you can opt for a variety of options, depending on the location and climate. Minimalistic shoes and accessories will complement your outfit best without stealing the spotlight from the bride. By following these tips and using your personal style, you’ll look stunning at the wedding and enjoy a wonderful time with your loved ones.
FAQ
How formal is a 4 o’clock wedding?
The level of formality for a wedding typically depends on the time of day. Generally, a morning wedding is more casual, while a ceremony in the afternoon or evening calls for a higher level of formality.
A 4 o’clock wedding falls in what is often referred to as the “twilight” time, which can leave some unsure about how to dress. The good news is, a 4 o’clock wedding is usually considered semi-formal, but it can depend on the nature of the wedding itself. If the ceremony is more of a daytime affair, then a semi-formal dress code is appropriate. However, if the wedding is an evening event, then formal wear, such as tuxedos or long dresses, would be more appropriate.
If the wedding invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, guests can take cues from the time, location, and style of the wedding. For a 4 o’clock wedding, men can wear a suit, dress shirt, and tie. Women can wear a shorter dress or a dressy suit. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed, so if you’re unsure whether to wear a certain outfit, it’s better to err on the side of caution and go with something more formal.
In general, the formality of a wedding depends on the couple’s preferences and what they envision for their special day. the best thing to do is to read the invitation carefully and reach out to the couple or their wedding planner for clarification on dress code if necessary.
Is 4pm considered an evening wedding?
When planning a wedding, one of the key considerations is the time of day the ceremony will take place. Daytime weddings are generally less formal and have a more laid-back atmosphere, while evening weddings tend to be more formal and elegant affairs. So is 4pm considered an evening wedding?
The answer is not straightforward, as different cultures and regions may have different definitions of what constitutes an evening wedding. However, as a general rule of thumb, an evening wedding is usually held after 6 p.m. This is because it is assumed that guests will have finished their workday and have time to get ready for the event. An evening wedding often continues well into the night and may include a sit-down dinner, dancing, and other formalities.
However, some wedding planners may consider a 4pm wedding as evening, depending on various factors such as the season, location, and the couple’s preferences. For instance, if the wedding is taking place in the winter months when it gets dark early, a 4pm ceremony could still have a magical and intimate evening feel. Alternatively, if the couple prefers a more laid-back and casual atmosphere, an early evening wedding may be more suitable.
It is up to the couple to decide what time of day they want to hold their wedding ceremony. They should consider their guests’ schedules, the type of wedding they want, and the atmosphere they aim to create. Whether it is a daytime or evening wedding, what truly matters is that the couple celebrates their love surrounded by their loved ones.
Can you wear black to a wedding at 4pm?
Traditionally, black has been viewed as a formal and serious color, often associated with mourning and funerals. However, in recent times, the fashion industry has embraced the color, and it has become a staple in many peoples’ wardrobes. This has led to some confusion about whether it is appropriate to wear black to a wedding, particularly a 4 pm wedding.
The good news is that wearing black to a wedding is not only acceptable these days, but it is also considered fashionable and chic. In fact, black is now a popular choice for evening, black tie, and winter weddings. It’s worth noting that black is also a slimming color that can make you look more elegant and sophisticated.
That being said, it’s important to remember that weddings are still formal occasions, and you should aim to dress appropriately. The time of day can also affect your outfit choice, as different dress codes apply for daytime and evening events. While a black cocktail dress may be appropriate for an evening wedding, it may not be the best choice for a 4 pm wedding.
If you’re attending a 4 pm wedding and are considering wearing black, you might want to opt for a lighter shade or pair it with brighter colors and accessories. A floral or colorful dress with black accents, or a black dress with a pop of color via your shoes or clutch, could be a great way to balance the seriousness of black with the more festive atmosphere of a wedding.
The key to dressing for a wedding is to follow the dress code, avoid overly revealing or attention-grabbing outfits and make sure your clothes are appropriate, comfortable, and appropriate for the occasion. As long as you do that, you can feel confident that you’re dressed appropriately in whatever you choose to wear, whether it’s black or another color.
