How to Dress for Your Courthouse Wedding: Couples & Guests

You’ve decided to get married in a courthouse. Congratulations!

First, a smart choice, you’ll save money. Second, you won’t have to deal with the same stress levels.

With that being said, choosing an outfit is still as difficult as ever. And if you’re attending the wedding as a guest, picking what to wear doesn’t get any easier.

But don’t you worry! We’ve got the perfect guide for you! Whether you’re saying the vows yourself or watching a loved one tie the knot, we’ll ensure you look your best and are up-to-date with all the wedding attire etiquette.

Is There a Dress Code for a Courthouse Wedding?

While there are no strict rules regarding dress for civil marriages, it is best to choose attire that looks polished and respects the formal setting of the government building.

Therefore, choosing a business casual or semi-formal dress code is best.

Also, couples are often confused as to what shades are appropriate for such a ceremony, and the most commonly asked question is What color dress for civil marriage?

And to answer that, you can wear any color you like, including white and ivory.

Civil Marriage Outfit Ideas for Couples

Now, the big questions are: “How should a bride dress for a courthouse wedding?” and “What should a groom wear to a courthouse wedding?” Fortunately, couples have plenty of options for their special civil ceremony that will ensure both comfort and a sense of occasion.

Now, if you’re wondering Where to Shop Online for Courthouse Wedding Attire, we’ve got you covered:

For Brides:
BHLDN, Lulus, ASOS, Reformation
For Grooms:
J.Crew, Bonobos, Indochino, H&M
Budget Options:
Target, H&M, Uniqlo

Quick Tips for Couples

Prioritize Comfort: You’ll be walking, standing, and dancing, so choose shoes and outfits in which you can move easily.
Photogenic Choices: Solid colors and classic cuts look excellent in photographs in the courthouse and outdoor settings.
Personalize: Add a unique touch by wearing special jewellery and a bold tie.
Match: Either opt for contrasts or similar colors but make sure you’re matching your partner's outfit.

1. Classic & Timeless: Polished, Understated Elegance

For civil weddings, you cannot go wrong with classic clothing, think of an elegant midi dress for the bride and a suit jacket for the groom.

For Her:

Dress: BHLDN Serena Midi Dress ($150)

A sleek, ivory midi with a subtle sheen, timeless and flattering for all body types.

Shoes: Hazel Pointed Toe Pump ($295)

Comfortable and classic, perfect for courthouse steps photos.

For Him:

Suit: Ludlow Slim-fit unstructured suit jacket ($150)
Trouser: Ludlow Slim-fit Suit Pant ($99)

Cream color works for any season and photographs beautifully.

Shoes: Camden Loafers In Leather ($168)

Strikes contrast with the lighter shade outfit and are comfortable.

2. Modern Minimalist: Sleek, City Hall Chic

Stay true to the civil ceremony theme and opt for these minimalist outfits. Complete the look by adding minimalist jewelry and a sleek watch.

For Her:

Dress: Basketweave Fabric Jumpsuit ($585)

Keep it simple, keep it stylish with an elegant jumpsuit.

Shoes: Vince Camuto Carolina Sandal ($99)

Attract attention to the footwear with fashionable footwear.

For Him:

Suit: Jetsetter Stretch Italian Wool Blazer ($200)

A suit never goes out of style; keep that in mind.

Shoes: Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II Leather Sneaker ($99)

Stay comfortable with a pair of reliable leather sneakers.

3. Romantic & Vintage-Inspired: Soft, Whimsical Details

Let the entire courthouse witness your romance with these vintage-inspired attire. We recommend a veil for her and a floral boutonnière for him to complete the look.

For Her:

Dress: Heavenly Hues White Maxi Dress ($110)

Flowy, feminine, and ideal for spring or summer.

Shoes: Steven Madden Temptng Black Leather Lace-Up Booties ($145)

For Him:

Suit: Hemsworth Light Grey Suit ($600)

Keep it classy with a fitted suit.

Shoes: Midtown Cap Toe Oxford ($125)

4. Budget-Friendly & Effortless: Under $150 Each

Courthouse marriages are all about saving money and avoiding drama. Here are budget outfit options to save big on your big day.

For Her:

Dress: ASOS DESIGN Curve Midi Cami Slip Dress In Black ($30 on sale)
Shoes: A New Day - Women's Stacy Mule Heels ($20)

For Him:

Suit: H&M Slim-Fit Linen Jacket ($99)
Shoes: Men's Toby Dress Shoes - Goodfellow & Co ($35)

5. Traditional Attire: Because It’s Your Wedding!

Can a bride wear a wedding dress to a courthouse wedding? Yes, you absolutely can!

While the whole idea of a courthouse wedding is to avoid all the formalities, you can absolutely wear a traditional wedding dress to your civil ceremony.

For Her:

Go custom! It’s your special day, so we highly recommend you get a custom wedding gown.

P.S. Looking to preserve your special wedding gown for years to come? Allow Trusted Wedding Gown Preservation to clean, store, and preserve your wedding gown.

For Him:

The same goes for the groom. We highly recommend getting a tailor-made wedding suit.

Seasonal Considerations for Couples

Spring/Summer: Well, it’ll be hot, so always stick to light fabrics (linen, cotton, crepe) and as for colors, choose pastel or floral accents.

Fall/Winter: In the cold weather, you’ve the liberty to choose richer fabrics (velvet, wool, heavier crepe). Similarly, you can opt for deeper tones (navy, emerald, burgundy).

Civil Marriage Outfit Ideas for Guests

If you’re attending a courthouse wedding, then you don’t need to dress too formal; however, you still need to look respectful and stylish while staying comfortable.

Think smart-casual to semi-formal.

Women’s Guest Outfits

Think midi dresses and tie-belt dresses for this occasion. Also, always contact the bride first about what she’ll be wearing, as you do not want to outshine her.