My husband and I are invited to a "black tie preferred" wedding in mid-June. The ceremony is at a catholic church at 2:30pm, but the reception (at a country club) starts at 5:30pm. My husband is wearing a tux, so can I wear a long black dress even though the ceremony is in the afternoon? Already have an elegant black dress that is halter style and was going to cover my shoulders with a pink wrap for the ceremony. What do you think? Is this too dressy for the ceremony? Thanks.
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Jun 7, 2005, 6:19 PM
Post #2 of 3
(1513 views)
Re: [gina23] black tie afternoon wedding
[In reply to]
Dear Black Tie,
Tuxes are for evening wear, not for the daytime. However, because these two events are linked and the tux is necessary along with your black dress... I don't think the etiquette police will get you.
It is very difficult when events are timed in this manner. Basically you need to dress for the reception, not the wedding.
Re: [gina23] black tie afternoon wedding
[In reply to]
You are fine. The invitations clearly states that this wedding is formal, so you along with most of the other guests will be dressed in the same clothes for the ceremony and the reception. It isn't like you and your husband are going to be the only ones at the church dressed for the night. Plus, why not get a few extra hours out of a tux and evening gown you don't wear all the time.
black tie afternoon wedding
