Have you decided on the dress and suit you want for your wedding? If so, congrats. You’ll need to make the purchase ASAP. But wait, what about your guests?

Of course, you’re not the one who’ll choose their attire. That said, you can set a dress code for them to follow during your wedding. Many couples ensure their guests follow a specific set of dress rules to achieve a uniform look.

But you may ask: “Is a wedding dress code really necessary?” Well, below is a list of the pros and cons of setting a dress code for your wedding. So, let’s get started with the disadvantages:

Cons of Setting a Dress Code for Your Wedding

1. Limits Guests’ Preferences

When it comes to clothing, everyone has their preferences. Setting a strict code restricts guests from dressing the way they want. You may unknowingly force them to wear a style and color they aren’t comfortable with.

It seems like a small issue, doesn’t it? But consider the mood at your wedding. Will an uncomfortable guest be willing to celebrate with you? Well, you know the answer.

2. Cost Considerations

Above, we looked at a situation where your guests won’t be comfortable with your choice. But what if they can’t afford it in the first place? Yes, there are styles of dresses that are too expensive and force unexpected costs on guests.

For those who can’t afford those dresses, it’s like a message telling them not to bother showing up. Others may choose to wear something different instead only to stick out as the odd one, attracting unwanted attention.

3. Increased Planning Stress

Wedding planning is already as stressful as it can get. Setting a dress code is like adding another pile of work to that complex process. You may wonder how. After all, you only need to specify the dress code and you’re done.

Well, specifying the dress code isn’t even the first step. You’ll have to consider the theme of your wedding, check out several options online, and narrow your choice down. In addition to all these, you’ll need to be ready to address any concerns your guests may have.

Handling wedding guests is not an easy feat. Choosing a dress code will only lengthen that process. If you’re already stressed out enough, it may be best to leave out this process. So, yes, setting a dress code isn’t really necessary for a wedding.

But couples who decide to set one enjoy the following benefits at their wedding:

Pros of Setting a Wedding Dress Code

1. Uniform Look

If you’ve always wanted a uniform look on your wedding day, then setting a dress code is the right choice. A carefully selected dress code allows your guests to match the mood and theme of your wedding. It allows you to set that mood and look you have in mind.

It’s also a way of preventing guests from wearing any dress style that’s against your preference. Rather than specifying a type of dress to avoid (which may sound offensive), specify a type of dress to follow. It’s the logical choice.

2. Boosts Guests’ Confidence

Have you ever felt uncertain about dressing for a wedding? Perhaps you were worried whether your clothes would be appropriate. If so, you can relate to how many guests feel when dressing up for a wedding with no specified dress code.

By setting a dress code, guests will know what to expect. It also allows them not to pay negative attention to their clothing.

3. Unique Experience

For guests who’ve never attended a wedding with a dress code, your wedding allows them to gain a unique experience. The same applies to guests who are used to such weddings. After all, not all weddings set the same dress codes.

Wrapping Up: Should You Set a Wedding Dress Code?

As discussed in this post, there are advantages and disadvantages to setting a wedding dress code. So, how do you decide? It’s pretty simple. If you’ve always wanted your guests to have a uniform look, a dress code is the ideal choice. It also helps prevent any inappropriate dressing at your event.

But if you’re not particularly interested in setting dress rules for your guests and want to avoid any stress that comes with it, then don’t bother with it. This is also the ideal choice if you like variety and want your guests to dress however they want.

Ultimately, the decision rests on you. Consider your preferences and choose the option that best aligns with them.