Do You Dress Up For Rehearsal Dinner?

Kory Lubowitz 01 Aug 2025

The rehearsal dinner is a special event that takes place the night before the wedding. It is a chance for the couple to thank their wedding party for their help and to spend some time with their closest family and friends. The rehearsal dinner is also a time to celebrate the upcoming wedding and to get everyone excited for the big day.

The dress code for the rehearsal dinner can vary depending on the formality of the wedding. For a more formal wedding, guests may be expected to dress in semi-formal or formal attire. For a less formal wedding, guests may be able to dress in more casual attire. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dress up slightly more than you think you need to.

Here are some tips on what to wear to a rehearsal dinner:

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about what to wear to a rehearsal dinner:

Question 1: What is the dress code for a rehearsal dinner?
The dress code for a rehearsal dinner can vary depending on the formality of the wedding. For a more formal wedding, guests may be expected to dress in semi-formal or formal attire. For a less formal wedding, guests may be able to dress in more casual attire. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dress up slightly more than you think you need to.

Question 2: What should I wear if I'm a woman?
There are many different options for what to wear to a rehearsal dinner as a woman. Some popular choices include a cocktail dress, a skirt and top, or a pantsuit. If you are unsure of what to wear, you can always ask the couple or the wedding planner for guidance.

Question 3: What should I wear if I'm a man?
There are also many different options for what to wear to a rehearsal dinner as a man. Some popular choices include a suit, a sport coat and dress pants, or a button-down shirt and khakis. Again, if you are unsure of what to wear, you can always ask the couple or the wedding planner for guidance.

Question 4: What should I wear if the rehearsal dinner is outdoors?
If the rehearsal dinner is outdoors, you will want to choose something that is comfortable and appropriate for the weather. For example, you may want to wear a sundress or a pair of khakis and a button-down shirt. You may also want to bring a jacket or sweater in case it gets cold.

Question 5: What should I wear if the rehearsal dinner is at a restaurant?
If the rehearsal dinner is at a restaurant, you will want to dress up slightly more than you would for a casual dinner. For example, you may want to wear a cocktail dress, a skirt and top, or a pair of dress pants and a button-down shirt.

Question 6: What should I wear if the rehearsal dinner is at a more casual location?
If the rehearsal dinner is at a more casual location, such as a backyard or a park, you can dress down slightly. For example, you may want to wear a pair of jeans and a nice top, or a sundress.

Ultimately, the best way to decide what to wear to a rehearsal dinner is to consider the formality of the wedding and the location of the event. If you are still unsure of what to wear, you can always ask the couple or the wedding planner for guidance.

Here are some additional tips on what to wear to a rehearsal dinner:

Tips

Here are some additional tips on what to wear to a rehearsal dinner:

Tip 1: Consider the formality of the wedding. The formality of the wedding will dictate the level of formality of the rehearsal dinner attire. For a more formal wedding, guests should dress in semi-formal or formal attire. For a less formal wedding, guests can dress in more casual attire.

Tip 2: Consider the location of the event. The location of the rehearsal dinner will also help you to determine what to wear. For example, if the rehearsal dinner is being held at a restaurant, you will want to dress up slightly more than you would for a casual dinner. If the rehearsal dinner is being held at a more casual location, such as a backyard or a park, you can dress down slightly.

Tip 3: Ask the couple or the wedding planner for guidance. If you are unsure of what to wear to a rehearsal dinner, you can always ask the couple or the wedding planner for guidance. They will be able to give you specific advice on what is appropriate to wear for the particular event.

Tip 4: Err on the side of caution. If you are unsure of what to wear, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dress up slightly more than you think you need to. It is better to be overdressed than underdressed.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are appropriately dressed for the rehearsal dinner and that you make a good impression on the couple and their guests.

Conclusion:

Conclusion

The rehearsal dinner is a special event that takes place the night before the wedding. It is a chance for the couple to thank their wedding party for their help and to spend some time with their closest family and friends. It is also a time to celebrate the upcoming wedding and to get everyone excited for the big day.

The dress code for the rehearsal dinner can vary depending on the formality of the wedding. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dress up slightly more than you think you need to. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that you are appropriately dressed for the rehearsal dinner and that you make a good impression on the couple and their guests.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing. After all, the rehearsal dinner is a celebration! So relax, enjoy yourself, and have a great time.