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Emma & Willard

January 2, 2027 • New Britain, CT
142 Days To Go!

Emma & Willard

January 2, 2027 • New Britain, CT
142 Days To Go!

Our celebration draws inspiration from romance, art, and the grandeur of another era. We invite you to dress with intention, elegance, and a touch of drama. This is a black-tie formal event, where luxurious fabrics, rich colors, and thoughtful details are encouraged. Whether your style leans classic, bold, or artistic, choose something that feels elevated and expressive.

Feathers, shimmer, statement silhouettes, and unique designs are all welcome, provided they align with formal attire. If the theme inspires you, embrace it. If not, simply arrive dressed in something that makes you feel confident and beautiful.

Please note that black is reserved for the bride, and we kindly ask guests to select another color for their attire.

We cannot wait to see your individual interpretations of an evening filled with art, romance, and celebration.

What is the dress code and theme?

The dress code is black-tie formal, and our theme is Romantic Renaissance. Think dramatic silhouettes, rich color, and artistic flair. Feathers, sparkle, bold hues, and statement details are all welcome — as long as they align with formal attire. We love creativity, individuality, and style, and invite you to lean into the theme if it inspires you, but above all, wear what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Please refrain from wearing white, as it is reserved for the bride.

Where do I find women's formalwear if I don't have any ?

You do not need to spend a fortune to dress beautifully for this day. Stores like Babyboo, Princess Polly, ASOS, Joyfulie, and Stacee’s offer plenty of formal options at accessible price points, and shops such as Shein, Fashion Nova, Windsor, and Forever 21 tend to be especially budget-friendly. If you’d like to lean more into the theme, Lacemade, Fanciful Doll, Selkie, and Etsy have wonderfully romantic and artistic pieces. Thrifting and secondhand shops can also be great places to find something unique at a lower cost. We truly don’t want anyone to stretch their budget — we’re just excited to celebrate together. If you have questions or want a second opinion, feel free to message us with outfit ideas anytime.
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Where do I find men's formalwear if I don't have any?

You do not need to spend a lot to look incredible. Budget-friendly options include thrifting as well as stores like Fashion Nova, Shein, and ASOS, which all carry formalwear and suit options at accessible prices. For more traditional suiting and elevated looks, consider Men’s Wearhouse, Studio Suits, Jos. A. Bank, Dobell, Phix, and Azazie. If renting makes more sense, Generation Tux, The Black Tux, Men’s Wearhouse, and Jos. A. Bank also offer rental options in many locations. If you want to lean into the theme with something more artistic or old-world inspired, explore Etsy, Twisted Tailor, Perte d'Ego, Historical Emporium, and Townsend’s for unique pieces and statement looks. Please do not feel pressure to overspend — we care far more about you being there than what you wear. If you have questions or want to send photos of your outfit, we’re always happy to help.
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Is this a formal dress code?

Yes. This is a black-tie formal wedding. Floor-length gowns, tuxedos, formal suits, and elevated jumpsuits are appropriate.

Can I wear bold colors or unusual styles?

Yes. Rich colors, metallics, dramatic silhouettes, and artistic details are encouraged.

Can I show skin?

Yes. Cutouts, open backs, plunging necklines, high slits, and sheer elements are welcome as long as the look remains formal and intentional.

What would not be appropriate?

Anything that reads as casual, costume-like, or clubwear rather than formal. Outfits that resemble lingerie, casual party wear, or streetwear are not appropriate for this event.

Are feathers, sparkle, and statement accessories okay?

Absolutely. The more elevated and expressive, the better.

Do I need to follow the theme exactly?

No. You’re welcome to lean into the theme or keep it classic and formal.

Shoes and accessories?

Formal shoes, dramatic accessories, and artistic styling are encouraged.

Still unsure?

Feel free to ask us if you’d like a second opinion before the big day.