Can You Give Guests a Dress Code for Your Tenerife Wedding?

Written By Sam Smith

Short answer? Yes—and it’s totally okay.

Longer answer? Most of your guests will actually thank you for it.

When you’re planning a destination wedding in Tenerife, guests often worry about what to wear. A different climate, a different vibe, and a different venue mean they suddenly start second-guessing everything. A clear (but flexible) dress guide saves them stress and saves you from answering a million “Is this okay?” messages.

Giving a Dress Code Is Helpful, Not Rude

It’s absolutely okay to give your guests a little helpful hint. In fact, most people appreciate it, especially if they’re unsure what suits a destination wedding.

A dress code:

  • Helps guests feel confident that they have the tone of the day right.

  • Keeps the overall look of your day cohesive.

  • Stops last-minute outfit panic and prevents lots of questions from coming your way.

You’re not controlling anyone—you’re guiding them.

It’s Also Okay to Say What You Don’t Want

Yes, you want your guests to be comfortable. And yes, many of them will slip into something comfier on their feet once the dance floor opens (as they should!).

But if you don’t want flip-flops during your ceremony, just say so. Clear communication avoids awkward moments later. You shouldn’t have to beg your photographer to edit your uncle in a neon Hawaiian shirt out of your ceremony exit photos… (unless that’s the theme, in which case, carry on! 😄).

We’ve Seen Some Amazing Guest Dress Codes

We’ve worked with couples who’ve given their guests incredible creative direction, including:

  • Dress ideas that match the venue vibe (tropical venues, beachside venues, or modern luxury hotels).

  • Themes that match the day—like a Gatsby wedding (cue fabulous guest glamour!).

  • Outfits that align with the wedding colour scheme or décor.

  • Monochromatic palettes, such as weddings where all guests wore black—chic and bold.

The key? Giving guests a decent range (within reason) so everyone can find something that suits both their style and the brief.

This year, we had many weddings that asked their guests to think of "warm Spanish sunset," which works perfectly in Tenerife. Think chinos, linen, and relaxed tailoring—effortless but still glam. Colours like beige, buttery yellows, warm corals, terracotta, soft oranges, and tile blues feel elevated without being stuffy.

How to Share Your Dress Code

Not everyone loves strict rules, so even a “look and feel” description goes a long way. You can:

  • Add a colour guide to your wedding website.

  • Include it on your invitation or details card.

  • Simply describe the vibe instead of specifying exact colours.

Remember: It’s Your Wedding

You get to choose the theme, the colour palette, and the overall aesthetic. Giving your guests guidance doesn’t take away their personality—it just helps everyone look like they belong in the same beautiful story.

Sam Smith