Dissecting the Destination Wedding Dress Code, Inspired by 4 Far-Flung Affairs

Wedding dress codes aren’t so cut and dried anymore. Black tie can actually mean cocktail dresses and cocktail attire can mean flats and a long, flowing frock. It seems that the more far-flung the destination, the harder it becomes to provide guidelines for guests. Black tie on the beach in Mexico, you say? But how do I wear a gown and heels on the sand? A cool, fashion insider-y wedding in Andalusia with no dress code on the invitation? Where do I even begin?

Thankfully, a few of the most beautiful Vogue weddings are here to provide some visual inspiration. For example, a canal wedding in Copenhagen called for a more casual shirtdress, leopard coat, and a pair of pink wedges. Formal nuptials in Kyoto required a slinky strapless black dress and stilettos. And if you’re only venturing as far as New York City Hall, a simple day dress and block heel sandals would do just fine.

Here, four ways to dress for four inspired weddings around the world.

The Unconventional Wedding in Michoacan, Mexico

The Canal-side Nuptials in Copenhagen

The Black Tie Affair in Kyoto

The Laid-Back Celebration at New York City Hall