Dress Code Tenue de Ville
Tenue de Ville is one of the oldest and most classic dress codes for weddings, yet feels surprisingly modern. Literally, it means “clothes you wear to town.” Whereas nowadays we walk around town in all sorts of styles, in the past it was very different, back then Tenue de Ville stood for a neat, groomed and stylish look. And that idea is still the same. This dress code is all about a classy look, but without it having to be too chic or overly formal. Neat, stylish and cared for that is exactly what Tenue de Ville stands for.
Tenue de ville: This is how to wear this dress code
Tenue de Ville is all about neat, but not too chic. Neat, but not overly formal. It’s about that fine balance in between, and that can sometimes be a good challenge. After all, this dress code has many variations and leaves room for your own interpretation, which is why it sometimes feels like a search for the right look.
Are you going to a wedding with the dress code Tenue de Ville and you know that the bride and groom value etiquette? Then you can make your outfit a little more traditional and formal. If, on the other hand, the bride and groom are more relaxed and less concerned with etiquette, Tenue de Ville is often seen as a neat but fairly accessible basic dress code.
Below you will discover how to put together the perfect outfit for a wedding with the Tenue de Ville dress code.
The perfect tenue de ville outfit for ladies
Are you going to a wedding soon with the dress code Tenue de Ville? Then of course you want to know what is expected of you. But what exactly does Tenue de Ville mean for ladies? We are happy to explain it to you.
With this dress code, you can think of a pretty dress, an elegant skirt or a stylish pantsuit or suit. Tenue de Ville often calls for light, soft colors such as pale pink, baby blue or mint green. But sometimes you can also get away with a slightly brighter hue, as long as your entire outfit looks neat and stylish.
Clothing
Are you choosing a dress or skirt? Then the length is important. A long dress quickly looks too chic, while a dress that is too short is not appropriate for this dress code. Best is a skirt or dress that falls just at or over your knee. Do you like to wear tights? Then go for a skin-colored variety, as black tights do not fit the Tenue de Ville theme.
Bare shoulders are less appropriate with this dress code. Tenue de Ville is all about class and sophistication, an overly sexy dress doesn’t quite fit that bill. No matter how cute your off-shoulder dress is, save it for another party.
If you go for a suit or pantsuit, keep in mind the temperature that is predicted on the wedding day. After all, you’re not supposed to take off your blazer halfway through the ceremony, so choose something you feel comfortable in. Even if it gets a little warmer, or if you get hot quickly.
Shoes
Complete your Tenue de Ville outfit with neat, well-groomed shoes. A pump in a neutral, calm, even color always works well. Make sure not to combine everything in exactly the same shade. That way you avoid a too m&m-like look. Flat shoes are less suitable for this dress code, so choose a subtle heel if you are not used to walking on high heels. This way your look will remain elegant and you will still feel comfortable.
Accessories
Tenue de Ville is all about sophistication. Therefore choose subtle jewelry and quiet details. You certainly do not need to go overboard with large statement items; minimalist accessories will give your outfit that neat, classic look that goes with this dress code. Leave eye-catching jewelry in your jewelry box and keep your makeup soft and natural.
In short: tenue de ville for ladies
Nice overview, here’s what to look out for:
Neat shoes
A classic pump is most appropriate. Choose a quiet, even color that matches the rest of your outfit, this way you avoid the m&m-like look.
Neat, but not too chic
Choose a nice dress, a stylish pantsuit or an elegant skirt. Make sure your shoulders are covered. In doubt about the outfit? Then go for something basic rather than something too striking.
Choose color
Soft tones are common, but a fresh or bold color can also fit really well within this dress code.
Be creative
A subtle twist makes your outfit personal. Consider a belt, a pretty clutch or a small detail that makes your look unique.
The perfect tenue de ville outfit for men
Even as a man, you want to look good at a wedding. And with the dress code Tenue de Ville that means neat, tidy and stylish. Chic is also a dress code, but not too chic. It can take some searching if you don’t know exactly what this style entails, but with a few clear guidelines you will soon be fine.
One of the most important things about a theme like Tenue de Ville is that you choose a tailored suit. With that, you’re basically always safe. Go for a quiet, classic color and add any subtle detail to give your outfit a personal touch.
So you can think of a nice pocket square, a nice watch or a light color accent in your tie. Don’t forget that tie or bow tie, because it’s really a must with this dress code.
Clothing
So at Tenue de Ville, as a man, you always wear a tailored suit. Choose a neat, timeless color and combine it with a shirt that is slightly lighter in hue. This will make your look fresh and well-groomed.
Do you know that the bride and groom value etiquette? Then you can opt for a vest to make your outfit a bit more formal. But this is by no means an obligation, as it can quickly become too chic for this dress code.
Furthermore, Tenue de Ville always includes a tie or bow tie. The color should match your suit, but you can play around with the print or detail. This way your outfit remains classic, but personal.
Shoes
Complete your Tenue de Ville outfit with neat, well-groomed shoes that match your suit nicely. Choose materials such as leather or suede; these give a stylish, classic look. Patent leather in black is less often worn with this dress code, as it quickly looks too formal.
Accessories
At Tenue de Ville, you have plenty of room to give your outfit a personal touch. Think for example of a handkerchief, a nice handkerchief or socks with a subtle, cheerful print. Of course, you can also keep it a little quieter, think of a matching belt or elegant cufflinks, as these are also perfect choices. This way, your look remains neat, sophisticated and all yours.
In brief: men’s Tenue de Ville
Nice overview, here’s what to look out for:
Choose a necktie or bow tie
This is really part of the dress code. Whether you choose a tie or a bow tie. Because without this accessory, your Tenue de Ville look is not complete.
Wear a tailored suit
A tailored suit is a must at Tenue de Ville. Choose a quiet, soft color. This makes for a neat and tidy look.
Be creative
Give your outfit a personal touch with a fun accessory, such as a colorful pocket square or socks with a subtle, cheerful print.
The do’s & don’ts of tenue de ville
This is what you should and should not do with this dress code:
Don’ts
- Ladies: no flat shoes.
Tenue de Ville requires a neat, elegant look. A (small) heel is therefore really desirable. - Bare shoulders are a no-go.
This dress code is all about class and sophistication, and a covered shoulder line is totally part of that. - Avoid black.
As chic as it sounds, black does not fit within the traditional Tenue de Ville style.
Do’s
- Less is more.
With Tenue de Ville, it’s better to go for a quiet, neat look than something too lavish. But beware, your ordinary everyday outfit is also not the intention. Go for neat, stylish and classic. - Gentlemen: always wear a tie or bow tie.
Without this accessory, your outfit is incomplete.
Other dress codes
Are you having a wedding with a different dress code soon? Then be sure to read the guidelines for these popular wedding dress codes: