The trend of elaborate dress codes for weddings is on the rise, with couples like Lauren and Jackson England going to great lengths to ensure their guests are dressed to match the theme of their special day. The Englands, who had a safari wedding in Ranthambore, India, requested a “classic heritage Ralph Lauren” dress code to reflect the surroundings.
But they are not alone in their attention to detail. Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani, the youngest son of one of the world’s richest men, provided guests with nine pages of wardrobe guidance for their pre-wedding celebration in Jamnagar, India. Themes like “jungle fever” and “heritage Indian” were listed, along with runway photos and designer campaign images for inspiration.
Wedding planner Sarah Haywood notes that weddings today are meticulously designed, with mood boards helping to communicate the destination, venue, and event design so guests can dress appropriately. Stylist Anny Choi has seen a rise in requests for mood boards for wedding guests, as couples aim for a cohesive look while still allowing guests to feel comfortable.
While some guests enjoy the excitement of a themed dress code, others like Swathi Narra caution against making it obligatory or overly prescriptive. Ayushi Dalmia, who opted not to have a dress code for her wedding, received calls from friends asking for wardrobe planning documents, showing how the trend is becoming more common.
The popularity of dress codes and mood boards varies by region, with Asia and South Asia leading the trend. These guidelines can also be helpful for guests unfamiliar with cultural elements, providing cues and recommendations for appropriate attire. However, stylist Anny Choi warns against couples being solely driven by online optics and visibility, as weddings should not be about outdoing each other on social media.
Ultimately, the debate over dress codes for weddings raises questions about the balance between creativity and inclusivity. While some couples enjoy the spectacle of a themed event, others prefer a more relaxed approach. As Swathi Narra puts it, weddings are meant to be a celebration, not a competition.
