What to Wear to the 2026 ABC Trendsetter Awards Dinner: Tropical Black-Tie Inspiration
2026 Trendsetter Awards Dress Code: Black tie optional, with bright, tropical colors encouraged. The awards dinner takes place on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 7:00–10:00 PM during ABC's World of Weddings Conference in Cancun, Mexico.
The countdown to the 2026 World of Weddings is officially on — and one of the most anticipated evenings of the conference deserves an outfit to match.
On Wednesday, November 4, the Association of Bridal Consultants will come together in Cancun, Mexico, for the 2026 ABC Trendsetter Awards Dinner, an evening celebrating excellence, creativity, leadership, and achievement throughout the wedding and event industry.
And yes — this is your opportunity to dress for the occasion!
The Dress Code: Black-Tie Optional Meets Tropical Glamour
This year's Trendsetter Awards Dinner attire is:
Black Tie Optional | Bright, Tropical Colors Encouraged
Think sophisticated, celebratory, colorful and destination-inspired.
This isn't your traditional ballroom black tie where everyone needs to arrive in black, navy or neutrals. We're celebrating in Mexico, and we want the room to reflect the energy, color and creativity of our global wedding community.
Whether your style is dramatic, elegant, modern, romantic or bold, this is the night to have a little fun with it.
Need Inspiration? We've Got You.
We know conference preparation comes with a long to-do list, so we've made finding your awards-night look a little easier.
The ABC team has curated a collection of 2026 Trendsetter Award Dinner Outfit Inspiration in our new ABC Amazon Store.
You'll find ideas to help inspire your complete look — from statement dresses and sophisticated evening styles to accessories that can add the finishing touch.
SHOP THE 2026 TRENDSETTER AWARD DINNER OUTFIT INSPIRATION →
As an Amazon Associate, ABC may earn from qualifying purchases.
What Does “Tropical Black Tie” Look Like?
Start with traditional evening elegance, then bring in the destination.
Consider colors such as:
Fuchsia and hot pink
Coral
Turquoise and aqua
Cobalt and royal blue
Emerald and tropical green
Sunny yellow
Vibrant orange
Rich purple
Jewel tones
Tropical prints and sophisticated florals
Prefer something more understated? Absolutely. A classic evening look can fit beautifully — consider bringing in the tropical element through your jewelry, clutch, shoes, wrap or other accessories.
The goal isn't to wear a costume.
The goal is elevated destination glamour.
Don't Forget the Accessories
Sometimes the accessories make the outfit.
Consider completing your Trendsetter look with statement earrings, a beautiful evening clutch, dressy sandals or heels, colorful jewelry, a lightweight evening wrap or other pieces that give a classic outfit a touch of Cancun personality.
And remember: you'll be spending the evening celebrating and networking with wedding professionals from around the world. Choose something that makes you feel polished but is also comfortable enough to enjoy the entire celebration.
Gentlemen, You're Part of the Color Story Too
Tropical black tie isn't only for dresses.
A traditional dark suit or tuxedo can be paired with a colorful pocket square, bow tie, tie or other subtle tropical accent.
Those who enjoy making a statement might consider a colorful dinner jacket, sophisticated print or destination-inspired accessory.
The same principle applies: formal first, tropical second.
What About Shoes?
Choose wisely!
A beautiful shoe isn't much fun if you're ready to take it off before dinner ends.
Look for formal shoes that you'll be comfortable wearing throughout dinner, networking, photographs, awards and celebrating afterward.
If your outfit allows it, this might be the perfect occasion for a metallic, embellished or colorful sandal!
Make It Camera Ready
Remember that the Trendsetter Awards celebrate some of the most accomplished professionals in our industry. There will be plenty of photographs, conversations, hugs, celebrations and memorable moments.
When choosing your outfit, ask yourself:
Do I feel confident?
Can I comfortably move, sit, and mingle in this?
Will I still love this look when I see the photographs later?
If the answer is yes, you've probably found your outfit.
And Most Importantly — Make It Yours
Wedding professionals spend our careers helping other people look and feel incredible on their most important days.
On November 4, we're celebrating you.
Your accomplishments.
Your creativity.
Your businesses.
Your leadership.
Your friendships.
And the incredible global community we've built together.
So whether you arrive in a flowing tropical gown, a sleek jumpsuit, a colorful cocktail-inspired formal look, a classic tuxedo or something completely unexpected, wear something that makes you feel like celebrating.
Because the Trendsetter Awards aren't simply about handing out awards.
They're about recognizing the people who continue to raise the standard for our industry.
We can't wait to celebrate with you in Cancun!
Ready to Find Your Look?
We've put together some of our favorite ideas to help get you started.
EXPLORE ABC'S 2026 TRENDSETTER AWARD DINNER OUTFIT INSPIRATION →
See you on the red carpet!
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