Imagine you’ve been invited to an English wedding with international allure in the Netherlands. What do you wear? Weddings are formal events, in Holland they’re informal and casual – rarely glitter and glamour. So, understanding proper English wedding dress code etiquette is a must!

How exciting to be attending an English wedding! But, navigating a smart dress code as a Dutch, international or foreign guest is challenging. Whether it’s a home wedding, beach wedding, luxurious venue, farm yard or a castle event you got to look your best. No Jeans allowed!

Understanding English and international wedding traditions and dress culture helps you select an outfit that makes a statement. Are you attending an informal, semi-formal, or formal wedding? Below, are links for Dutch, English, and international guests invited to an English wedding in the Netherlands. Read on…

Invited to an English Wedding? Dress Code Etiquette!

Black tie Wedding dress code officiant delivering speech to international guests at Ketelhuis, Eindhoven.
In international wedding dress culture, what you wear as a foreign guest is important!  Anja & Sam fischer-bruidsfotografie
  • Bridal Dress Code for an English Wedding:

Are you an English bride planning your big event in the Netherlands? The English wedding dress, also known as a bridal gown, comes in many styles, shapes, sizes and sensual fabrics. Depending on whether you’ve been invited to an English wedding that’s traditional or non-religious, it’s customary for the bride to wear a pure or off-white dress. From delicate chiffon’s and soft tulle to luxurious silks, satin’s and lace, there’s plenty of choice. Wear your bridal dress at any length (within reason and respect for the occasion.) It could be classic, versatile and elegant –  dress it up with colourful accessories: shoes, scarves or jewellery to add a pop of pizzazz. Tailored trouser suits for brides are all the rage. Try this wedding season’s colour.

American and British wedding ceremony traditions:

A traditional American or English wedding is steeped in history and full of sophistication. Pronovias luxury wedding dresses and designer formal wear says, these customs have been passed down through generations. Each outfit creates a sense of occasion and connection to the past. So, have you been invited to participate in a American or English wedding? What do you wear? Go to provonias.com.

  • Majestic Venue Dress Code:

A quintessential English wedding usually takes place in a majestic venue, such as a historic castle or picturesque church. These locations require ‘full evening dress’, ‘top and tails’ or ‘dress suit’. That’s why it’s best to dress according to the event’s formality. For grand affairs in landmark venues, gentlemen may opt for morning suits or classic dark suits, while ladies might wear elegant dresses and hats. Source:www.pronovias.com

  • Bridesmaids Dress Code:

How exciting, you’ve been invited to a wedding in the Netherlands. Are you one of the bridesmaids flying from around the world? Here are some important tips to consider! Bridesmaids should complement the bride. That’s why it’s essential to choose an outfit that reflects her personality. Do you love vintage-inspired gowns reminiscent of the dresses from Bridgerton, with their timeless elegance? Whatever style you pick, remember to avoid wearing white. Wear what is mentioned on the invitation.

Bride and groom kissing surrounded by bridesmaids dressed in pink and groomsmen dressed in black tie suits holding red balloons.
pexels-fernanda-latronico

What are English wedding outfits for men? It might feel like you have fewer style options as a male guest, but there are plenty of bespoke outfit options. This way, you can express your personality through your style choices. So, if you are part of an international gathering flying in from around the world to celebrate a wedding. Get smart! Buy or hire a tuxedo (also known as a classic suit or top and tails). This smartly tailored outfit consists of trousers, a vest, and a jacket to give him a polished look. The jacket for an English wedding can be a long tail breast coat. However, grooms and their best men can wear a black suit, or darker colours such as grey, navy blue, rich brown and burgundy. Be bold, choose a tartan or plaid fabric or go for a luxurious velvet.   Pakkend.nl helps you find a suitable bespoke outfit for attending an English wedding in the Netherlands and beyond. Wear festive attire and enjoy the special occasion in style.

Black tie wedding dress code, bride and groom at a formal garden wedding holding hands and the officiant delivering a speech.
Vola & Adama – Evie Photography

 

The white tie dress code is the most formal and elegant attire for an ultra chic English wedding of international allure. It’s a full evening dress, top hat and tails or a tailor-made dress suit. Following this dress code shows respect for British, or American tradition and adds to the grandeur of the celebration. From a glamorous white wedding dress for her the bride to a white tuxedo for him the groom. As as Dutch or foreign guest you’re invited to a celebrity red carpet event, royal gathering or prestigious affair, so you must wear something extra special. Find in-depth details about what to wear to an international or English wedding ceremony in the Netherlands or beyond. Clothing and wedding shoes for him and her can be found at edeandravenscroft.

A gay couple kissing, wearing suits, and an officiant congratulating them.
Hans & Eric – Michelstockphotography

The dress code for the Black Tie Event is tailored for a sophisticated wedding. It is essential to select a classic, formal look that complements the high level of formality of the event. Embracing this glamorous English wedding tradition will enhance your experience. So, what should I wear? For men, recommended attire includes a black dinner jacket or tuxedo, a dress shirt, formal trousers, a cummerbund, cufflinks, a waistcoat, black shoes, and a bow tie. For women, an elegant floor-length gown or a formal midi dress is a suitable choice. Will you make a significant impact? Yes! Wearing these vital outfits will help both Dutch and foreign guests make a stylish impression. More importantly, you will be dressed appropriately without overshadowing the couple.

Black tie wedding dress code at Van der Valk Hotel, Almere with officiant signing the certificate, and the bride and groom smiling holding hands.
Niels & Audrey

Being invited to an international or English wedding in the Netherlands is special. At a formal garden wedding event a black tie is not required. However, for the men a dashingly smart suit (with or without a tie) and for ladies an elegant dress (cocktail dress, long or knee high outfit) would be perfect. Go to John Lewis for the best wedding dress code etiquette in the Netherlands.

 

As a Dutch, English or foreign guest attending an international wedding at the beach or garden party, what do you wear? Whatever you want, as long as it’s casual chic. Whether a formal garden wedding, beach affair or boat event look your best.  But what is the right attire for an English party? From the finest summer dress, cool jumpsuit or cosy chic suit make sure you feel comfortable the whole day. For men, a stylish linen or cotton suit, pants and shirt are appropriate. Don’t forget to pair your outfit with suitable beach, boat or garden shoes. Need some inspiration for what to wear to a formal garden or beach wedding in the Netherlands. Find Dutch wedding dress culture and more on Pinterest.

Bride and groom dressed in white holding one another at the canalside in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Teresa & Scott – International wedding boat wear Imagelana – wedding photogragher Amsterdam

Being invited to a wedding as a Dutch or foreign guest is exciting. Remember attending a special occasion requires appropriate footwear. Like all international wedding traditions; from high heels, ballerinas, loafers, and brogues. These dressy and semi-formal shoes can be matched with your outfit. Depending on the time of year or season, prioritize comfort.

 

Can you wear jeans to an international wedding in the Netherlands? Yes and No! Read your invitation to see if it specifies a smart casual wedding dress code. From designer jeans, sweatpants and classy trainers it is a No Go! However, if it’s a Dutch couple they may not mind. Then, you can choose a smart casual outfit such as a trouser suit, shirt without tie to match the jeans. For ladies dressy separates are perfect. In honour of this momentous occasion, the wedding outfit should reflect the celebratory spirit of the event. Check out cosmopolitan.com to know what not to wear.

Is it commonplace to have children be part of the wedding procession? Yes, from the flower girls, bridesmaids, or ring bearers, they play a big role. So, it’s important to dress your kids appropriately if you are invited to a wedding in the Netherlands. Consider unique outfits or fun party wear that makes them feel comfortable all day. They will be the talk of the town!

bride and groom at Hortus Botanicus wedding venue, Amsterdam
Invited to a wedding – dress code etiquette – casual chic outfit with a watch, bracelet, to cufflinks. Issy & Danny – CharlotteAmyPhotography

The Dutch wedding tradition doesn’t require for foreign guests to wear a bridal fascinator, hat or headpiece. But if the weather requires you can choose a sophisticated wide-brimmed style or a sleek short-brimmed design to protect you from the sun. This accessory enhances the wedding dress code. As an honoured English guest, you’ll leave a lasting impression.

As a female wedding Celebrant the options are endless, dresses, trouser suits, a smart jacket over a dress or skirt, jumpsuits.

Black tie Wedding dress code, bride and groom leaving hand in hand, the wedding venue surrounded by officiant, international guests in Belgium.
Erika & Adriaan © IG bertstephani

 

Invited to an English Wedding – Dos and Don’ts Dress Code Attire:

  •  Don’t upstage the bride! Be mindful of the colour white and choose your outfit wisely. Pay attention to the English wedding invitation and the colour theme.
  • Don’t wear revealing clothing that exposes too much skin; leave something to the imagination. An English wedding is a special occasion, and not a fashion runway. Choose a tasteful outfit that respects the traditions.
  • Don’t wear ripped jeans (designer or not), t-shirts, cropped tops and scanty shorts. These choices are inappropriate, and may offend other family and friends at the English wedding in the Netherlands.

 

  • Do if invited to an English wedding make an effort to look your best. Read the international wedding invitation and ask the bride and groom for guidance about the dress code etiquette. Ensure your outfit is clean, pressed, and well put together, as this shows respect for the couple.
  • Do stand out as a Dutch, or foreign guest and select an outfit that complements your style. Note: An English wedding requires you too blend in. Overdressed is more fashionable than underdressed.
  • Do pay attention to international and English wedding traditions. Feel encouraged to wear whatever makes you feel confident and at ease. Get excited about the wedding in the Netherlands. Enjoy the fun, unique and exciting experience. So, remember no pressure! Decode the English wedding dress code!

While you’re here…

Invited to an wedding in NL as a Dutch or foreign guest? Please share your thoughts below…