Header image from Hadar & Dan’s Islington Town Hall wedding, by London wedding photographers York Place Studios

Registry office weddings are on the rise – but what are you supposed to wear?

We’ve gone from stately homes to barn and festival weddings as major trends over the last couple of years. Now with registry office weddings soaring in popularity, there’s a new outfit challenge for guests attending a registry office wedding. With registry offices tending to be in city centres, what do you wear that’s city chic, fit for the occasion and comfortable too? We’re sharing advice from the fashion team at Next, who have put together a guide to help guests navigate the dress code, as well as highlighting some of the biggest wedding guest trends this season.

Key looks for registry office wedding guest outfits

Relaxed and understated

At registry office weddings, the dress code is typically smart-casual and less formal than a wedding taking place at a church or other wedding venue. Think elegant daywear rather than full formalwear.

Registry office wedding guest dresses are typically midi in length for women, and men should consider something relaxed like a pair of chinos and a blazer rather than a full three-piece suit.

Urban-friendly

Given the location, it is best to consider something that is stylish but practical that will suit your city surroundings and be comfortable to move in. The best choices would be midi dresses, tailored jumpsuits, and co-ords rather than more formal floor-length evening gowns that you could easily trip on.

Comfy shoes

Because of the urban location, getting to a wedding at a registry office will often involve a lot of walking or could involve using public transport. Forget high heels and prioritise comfort.

“Trending styles like ballet flats or trusty favourites like loafers or smart boots are always a good choice, but if you want to opt for a heel, consider a block or kitten heel to save your feet.”

Registry office wedding outfits trending this season

Flutter sleeves

Feminine and floaty, flutter sleeve dresses are perfect for a city wedding. If you prefer a jumpsuit, or a suit, it’s a lovely way to soften the look. They also give a little arm coverage, but you won’t overheat – just perfect.

Bow details

Next tell us the latest bow-related trend to be gaining traction is ‘bow back dresses’.

“A great way to make a smart-casual outfit a little more interesting is to pick something that has subtle extra details. Bows are a prime example of this; a simple bow detail on the back of a dress or as a fastening adds a touch of elegance and otherwise simple outfit.”

Pastel suits

A gorgeous gender neutral option, pastel suits are perfect for summer weddings, and something about the smartness of a suit is just right for a registry office occasion. We’re loving lavender suits, which are trending right now. Next say wearing a suit also removes the struggle of figuring out what jacket will work with your outfit. “The other benefit to a suit is that you can easily rewear the pieces after either together or separately. Paired with a kitten heel or sandal and a clutch, you will look effortlessly cool.”

Floral dresses in pastel colours

The midi dress is just right for summer city weddings. Opting for fabrics like silk, crepe, or satin adds a touch of sophistication without being overly formal. Lighter colours are lovely for daytime, and pastel floral arrangements and bouquets are popular this season too!

Co-ordinating sets

A matching waistcoat and trouser set, or a skirt and top, looks elegant and polished – but relaxed enough for a registry office wedding. Choose lighter colours and tailored silhouettes. “A co-ord is a good choice if you want to look polished without feeling overdressed. It’s a great hack for looking and feeling put-together but with low effort. A well-tailored two-piece is always classy and timeless, and the perfect way to look elegant without stealing the spotlight.”

Elegant jumpsuits

For a less formal registry office wedding, a jumpsuit is the perfect chic alternative to a dress. On hot summer days, lighter fabrics and cap or flutter sleeves are ideal, and a jumpsuit teamed with a pretty clutch looks just fabulous.