Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn moreWedding season is here, which can mean only one thing if you're at a certain age: months of back-to-back invites to different nuptials... all with different dress codes. Nowadays, we spend most of our lives in casual attire, so it can be intimidating to receive wedding invites requesting a specific dress code. Especially when showing up in the wrong choices can quickly get you blacklisted by the happy couple. It feels like dress codes (no matter how formal) have never been more important to couples who are planning a wedding, with many sending out strict moodboards, or 'banned clothing' lists. Annelise Sealy, founder of The Fall Bride, agrees. 'We've definitely seen wedding dress codes become more nuanced over the past year. Rather than a blanket move towards either casual or formal, couples are being more intentional about creating a specific atmosphere and asking guests to dress accordingly.' Social media has played a significant role in this shift, with many couples increasingly conscious of how their guests' clothing can contribute to the overall feel of an event. Rightly or wrongly, photographs now play a central role in any wedding, and couples want a cohesive look that aligns with their decor and colour schemes. However, it's important not to overthink too much. After all, the bride and groom aren't trying to trip you up. 'A dress code isn't about restricting guests; it's about helping them feel comfortable and appropriately dressed for the event... the dress code is chosen to complement the venue, time of day and overall style of the celebration,' Sealy adds. In need of some inspiration for an upcoming wedding? Read on to find out exactly what each dress code means - as well as what should be avoided at all costs!White TieA white tie dress code is the most formal option for an event. As well as weddings, white tie (or formal evening dress) is reserved for royal banquets, debutante balls and state dinners. Women should wear full-length evening dresses, paired with a smart clutch or top-handle bag. Evening gloves are encouraged, but not compulsory and short dresses should always be avoided. Shoes-wise, women are expected to wear closed-toe heels in neutral tones. Unlike the name suggests, women should never wear white (or similar light shades) to a white tie wedding. 'As a general rule, even if the outfit isn't a traditional bridal dress, it's best to avoid colours that could compete with the bride's look,' says Sealy.Black tie With men in tuxedos, women are expected to embrace an equally glamorous look for a black tie event. 'I recommend a floor-length gown or an elegant midi or full-length evening dress in luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, crepe or velvet,' says Sealy. While white tie requires formal, fine jewellery, black tie allows for more fashion-forward styles. Think chunky gold bangles, statement earrings and coloured stones - all worn tastefully, of course. Smart heels are generally expected, but strappy, embellished styles are acceptable for this dress code. 'Guests should steer clear of anything overly casual, including sundresses, trainers or daytime office attire,' Sealy adds. 'I would also avoid excessively revealing outfits that may distract from the occasion - this isn't an episode of Euphoria!'Cocktail dress Cocktail dress allows you to showcase your own sense of style with your choice of outfit, as it's a slightly more relaxed code. However, this doesn't mean it's casual; cocktail dress is still smart.While a long gown would look overdressed for a cocktail event, it's safer to stay away from mini styles - unless you've checked with the bride first. Smart suiting or jumpsuits are also acceptable, as are bolder colours and prints. Again, heels are your best bet for this type of event. But, for those who prefer flat, smart pumps or boots would also be ok, depending on how they work with the rest of your outfit. Morning dress Morning dress is a traditional dress code for formal daytime weddings. Royal weddings, for example, will often require morning dress. Women should wear a dress in a midi length (or longer), preferably with sleeves, but definitely not strapless. A smart tailored jacket is a great option to keep arms covered. It's best to stay away from anything too heavily printed; instead, lean into block colours. Smart hats aren't essential but strongly encouraged, as are closed-toe heels. Keep jewellery minimal and chic. Think small drop earrings, delicate chains and tennis bracelets.