So, you’ve been invited to a wedding in Germany. Congratulations! Now comes the big question—what on earth do you wear? Do you go full Oktoberfest mode in Lederhosen? Is black okay? Will people stare if you wear a hat?
Don’t worry—I’ve got all the answers. Whether it’s a chic Berlin ceremony, a fairytale Bavarian wedding, or a vineyard celebration in the Mosel Valley, here’s everything you need to know about German wedding guest attire.
1. Decoding the German Wedding Dress Code
🎭 Every German Wedding is Different!
Before you start picking out your outfit, check the invitation carefully. German weddings can range from simple civil ceremonies (Standesamt) to extravagant castle celebrations. If you’re unsure, just ask the couple! Germans appreciate directness, and it’s better than showing up wildly overdressed—or worse, underdressed.
Here’s a Quick Guide to Wedding Types & Dress Codes:
| Wedding Type |
What to Wear |
| Civil Ceremony (Standesamt) |
Smart-casual, business attire, nothing too fancy |
| Church Wedding |
Elegant but not over-the-top—think cocktail dresses & suits |
| Bavarian Wedding (Tracht erwünscht?) |
Dirndl and Lederhosen are totally acceptable |
| Castle Wedding (Neuschwanstein-style!) |
Formal—long dresses, tailored suits, a bit of royal flair |
| Outdoor Vineyard Wedding (Mosel Valley, Rhine region, etc.) |
Light, breathable fabrics; classy but comfortable |
| Berlin Hipster Wedding |
Cool, effortless, monochrome-chic is totally fine |
| Seaside Wedding (Hamburg, Bremen, or Baltic Coast) |
Elegant but relaxed—think summer dresses & linen suits |
📌 Pro Tip: If the invitation says “Black Tie”—it’s rare, but possible—then yes, you need a tuxedo or evening gown. Otherwise, a formal suit or cocktail dress will do just fine.
2. What to Wear to a German Wedding as a Female Guest
✅ Do’s:
✔ Elegant cocktail dresses, midi or maxi dresses
✔ Soft pastel shades or floral prints
✔ Chic jumpsuits or tailored dress suits
✔ Comfortable (but stylish) heels or flats
✔ A wrap or blazer—Germany’s weather can be unpredictable
❌ Don’ts:
🚫 No white, ivory, or cream (only the bride wears white—no exceptions!)
🚫 Avoid neon or overly flashy outfits—Germans favor understated elegance
🚫 Skip the super-short or overly revealing dresses, especially for church weddings
🚫 Uncomfortable shoes—you’ll likely be standing, walking, and dancing a lot
Seasonal Tips:
🌸 Spring wedding? Bring a light jacket—it might rain!
☀️ Summer wedding? Linen or flowy fabrics work best—Germany can get hot!
🍂 Autumn wedding? Rich jewel tones like emerald green or burgundy are a great choice.
❄️ Winter wedding? Layer up—Germans love stylish coats and scarves.
3. What to Wear to a German Wedding as a Male Guest
✅ Do’s:
✔ A well-tailored suit in navy, grey, or dark green (black suits are usually for funerals, but can work for evening weddings)
✔ A crisp dress shirt (tie optional unless the wedding is very formal)
✔ Classic dress shoes—Germans love good footwear!
✔ A pocket square for a touch of elegance
❌ Don’ts:
🚫 No sneakers (unless the couple specifically allows them)
🚫 No jeans or casual t-shirts—Germans take their wedding fashion seriously
🚫 No overly loud patterns—subtle, refined elegance is key
4. Can You Wear Black to a German Wedding?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Traditionally, black was reserved for funerals, but modern German weddings are more relaxed about it. If you opt for black, just make sure your outfit looks festive—add a pop of color with accessories, shoes, or a statement bag.
💡 Safe bet? Choose navy, dark green, or deep burgundy instead of black!
5. Traditional Bavarian Attire: Dirndl & Lederhosen
If the invitation says “Tracht erwünscht” (traditional dress welcome), then congratulations—you get to rock some authentic Bavarian fashion!
👗 For Women:
- A Dirndl with a well-fitted bodice and a knee or ankle-length skirt (not the touristy mini ones!)
- Apron bow tied on the right? You’re taken. Left? You’re single. Middle? Mind your own business. 😄
🏔 For Men:
- High-quality Lederhosen (not the plastic Halloween version!)
- A crisp white or checkered shirt
- Traditional knee-high socks and leather shoes
📌 Not sure if it’s required? Just ask the couple!
6. What NOT to Wear to a German Wedding
🚫 White (seriously, don’t do it)
🚫 Ripped jeans, sneakers, or flip-flops
🚫 Overly casual outfits (unless it’s a super chill wedding)
🚫 Anything too short, too tight, or too flashy
7. Extra Tips: Shoes, Accessories & Practicality
✅ Bring comfortable shoes. Many German weddings include outdoor walks, surprise dances, or even a post-wedding hike!
✅ Layer up! Weather can change quickly—always bring a stylish blazer or wrap.
✅ Pack some cash. Germans love Hochzeitsspiele (wedding games), where guests contribute money to fun activities.
8. Best German Wedding Locations & Their Dress Codes
If you’re lucky enough to attend a dream wedding in Germany, here’s how to match your outfit to the venue:
🏰 Neuschwanstein Castle Wedding – Go full fairytale mode with a formal dress or a sharp tux. (More info: www.neuschwanstein.de)
🍷 Mosel Valley Vineyard Wedding – Elegant but relaxed, like something you’d wear to a fancy garden party. (Find wineries: www.mosel.de)
🌲 Black Forest Wedding – Nature-inspired elegance; long flowy dresses or stylish suits work well. (More info: www.schwarzwald-tourismus.info)
Final Thoughts: Dress Well & Capture the Magic!
Weddings are about love, laughter, and—let’s be honest—some major fashion wins (and fails!). Whether you’re rocking a Dirndl, a sleek Berlin look, or a vineyard-chic outfit, wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
And of course, don’t forget to capture these moments beautifully.
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing authentic, joy-filled memories in stunning locations. See my work at Your Happy Moments Blog, check out my photography packages here, or let’s chat about your dream wedding photos here.
Let’s make your wedding photos as timeless as your love story. 💛✨
