RSVP AND DRESS CODE: CONFIRM AND CONFORM


Okay, I need to get this off my chest before I burst like a badly tied bunga telur.

Nothing annoys me more than people who completely ignore two very basic, very simple things when it comes to attending a wedding: the RSVP and the dress code. It’s 2025, people—Google exists. We can find the nearest nasi lemak stall at 3am but somehow can't click “Yes, I’m attending” on a wedding invite?

Let’s start with the RSVP. You know that part where the couple asks if you’re coming? Yeah, it’s not just for fun. It’s not a personality quiz or a suggestion box. It’s so we know how many tables to book, how many dishes to prepare, and most importantly, how many aunties to warn about their karaoke slot. But no, some folks go full mysterious stranger mode—no reply, no message, and then bam! They appear at the reception like a plot twist. Holding a plus-one we weren’t expecting. Sometimes a plus-three. One of them is a toddler with peanut allergies.

Now let’s talk about the dress code. The actual source of my weekly internal screaming.

If the invite says formal or traditional, that does not mean:

  • Jeans (no matter how “designer” they are),

  • T-shirts with inspirational quotes,

  • Or my personal favourite: men showing up in sports jerseys like they’re off to a futsal match, not a bersanding ceremony.

And I’m sorry to say this, but the men really do take the trophy when it comes to this crime. I’ve seen more baju Melayu worn properly during a school Merdeka parade than at actual weddings. Come on, guys—wear the baju Melayu! You look great in it! Instant upgrade from “abang biasa to abang sado with culture.”

Also, can we please retire the slippers-at-a-wedding look? Unless you're the caterer rushing from the kitchen or the groom lost a bet, there is no reason to be walking around a wedding hall looking like you're at the pasar pagi.

To those who do show up dressed respectfully, thank you. We see you. You understood the assignment. But for the rest, please, I beg you: RSVP when asked. Read the dress code. And follow it. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about showing respect for the event, the couple, the culture, and frankly, yourself.

After all, this isn’t a lepak session at the mamak. It’s someone’s big day. Let’s act like it.

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