Where to Include the Dress Code on Wedding Invitations
You can mention the dress code in several places:
- On the main wedding invitation, usually at the bottom.
- On a separate enclosure card included with your invitation suite.
- On your wedding website for more detailed explanations.
Common Wedding Dress Codes and How to Word Them
Black Tie
A formal and elegant dress code, perfect for evening weddings. Men should wear tuxedos, and women should wear floor-length gowns.
Wording Examples:
- “Black Tie Attire Requested.”
- “Formal Evening Wear: Tuxedos and Gowns Encouraged.”
- “Dress to impress in black tie attire.”
Black Tie Optional
A slightly less formal option that still encourages tuxedos and evening gowns but allows for dark suits and cocktail dresses.
Wording Examples:
- “Black Tie Optional: Tuxedos & Gowns Preferred, Suits & Cocktail Dresses Welcome.”
- “Formal Attire Encouraged but Not Required.”
- “Dress Your Best: Tuxedos, Suits, Gowns, and Cocktail Dresses.”
Formal or Evening Attire
A step below black tie, this dress code allows for suits instead of tuxedos and long dresses or elegant cocktail dresses.
Wording Examples:
- “Formal Attire: Suits and Dresses, Please.”
- “Elegant Evening Wear Suggested.”
- “Dress to Impress: Formal Attire Kindly Requested.”
Semi-Formal or Cocktail Attire
Perfect for a wedding that is stylish but not overly formal. Men can wear suits or dress pants with a blazer, and women can opt for cocktail dresses or dressy separates.
Wording Examples:
- “Semi-Formal Attire: Suits, Dresses, or Cocktail Attire Welcome.”
- “Cocktail Attire Suggested – Dress to Celebrate!”
- “Look Sharp: Dressy Attire Appreciated.”
Casual or Daytime Attire
Great for outdoor or relaxed weddings where comfort meets style. Think sundresses, linen pants, and light fabrics.
Wording Examples:
- “Casual Attire: Come Comfortable and Stylish.”
- “Laid-Back and Lovely – Dress Comfortably.”
- “Smart Casual: Sundresses, Khakis, and Collared Shirts Welcome.”
Beach or Destination Wedding Attire
For tropical weddings, guests should dress light and breezy while still looking polished.
Wording Examples:
- “Beach Chic: Linen, Light Fabrics, and Sand-Friendly Shoes Encouraged.”
- “Dress for the Tropics – Light, Airy, and Elegant.”
- “Seaside Style: No Jackets Needed, Just Your Best Beachy Look.”
Themed or Unique Attire Requests
If you’re having a themed wedding, let guests know in a fun and inviting way.
Wording Examples:
- “Vintage Glamour: Dress Like It’s the Roaring ‘20s!”
- “Garden Party Attire – Floral Dresses and Light Suits Encouraged.”
- “Festive Attire: Bright Colors and Bold Patterns Welcome!”
Wedding Invitation Dress Code Wording Samples
Looking for a way to express your wedding dress code without cluttering your invitation? You can either provide a detailed explanation on your wedding website or include a simple dress code note on the invite. If you want to keep it short and sweet, check out the wedding dress code examples below that will help your guests dress appropriately for your special day.
- Black-Tie: “Join us for an elegant evening on [wedding date]. Black-tie attire requested.”
- Black-Tie Optional: “Celebrate with us on [wedding date]. Black-tie optional—feel free to wear a tuxedo or evening gown.”
- Formal Attire: “Please join us on [wedding date] in formal attire. Suits and cocktail dresses recommended.”
- Cocktail Attire: “Come dressed in cocktail attire for a night of fun on [wedding date].”
- Semi-Formal Attire: “Celebrate with us on [wedding date] in semi-formal attire. Suits and dresses encouraged.”
- Casual Attire: “Join us for a relaxed celebration on [wedding date]. Casual attire welcome.”
- Beach Attire: “Meet us by the ocean on [wedding date]. Beach attire recommended—sundresses and sandals!”
- Themed Attire: “Celebrate with us on [wedding date] in [theme attire]. Get creative and join the fun!”
How to Include Dress Code Information on Your Wedding Website
Your wedding website is the perfect place to provide detailed attire and dress code information for your guests. While the invitation can include a brief note, your website allows you to expand on what’s expected and provide helpful tips. Here’s how to include wedding attire info on your site:
- Create a Dress Code Page: Dedicate a specific page to the dress code on your wedding website. This can be a part of your “Details” or “Wedding Info” section, making it easy for guests to find.
- Be Clear and Specific: If you’re requesting formal or themed attire, give your guests examples of what that looks like. For instance, for a black-tie event, suggest tuxedos, gowns, or other suitable options. For a beach wedding, describe appropriate footwear like sandals or flip-flops.
- Link to Dress Code Inspiration: Include links to blogs or Pinterest boards that showcase style ideas for each dress code. This gives your guests a visual reference and ensures they feel confident in their outfit choices.
- Include Weather Considerations: If your wedding is outdoors or in a specific location, mention how the weather may affect their attire. For example, you might suggest light fabrics for a summer beach wedding or warm layers for a winter ceremony.
- Mention Any Extras: If there are any dress code details beyond clothing, such as the color palette or optional accessories like hats or shoes, be sure to include that information too.
- Add Dress Code to the FAQ: Consider adding a dress code question to your website’s FAQ section. This way, guests can easily find a quick answer to questions like “What should I wear to the wedding?” or “Is there a specific dress code?” You can include a brief overview of the dress code along with a link to your full dress code page for more details.
Helpful Tips for Communicating a Wedding Dress Code
Be Clear and Kind
A friendly tone ensures guests feel comfortable, not pressured. Instead of saying “Formal Attire Required,” opt for “We kindly request formal attire.”
Consider the Weather & Venue
If your event is outdoors, mention the terrain and expected temperatures so guests can plan accordingly.
Give Examples for Clarity
If your dress code is unique or falls between traditional categories, a short description can be helpful. For example, “Garden Party Attire – Think flowy dresses, dressy flats, and light-colored suits.”
Use Your Wedding Website for More Details
If space is limited on your invitation, direct guests to your wedding website where they can see photos, inspiration, and additional guidelines.
Acknowledge Guest Comfort
Some guests may have mobility concerns or personal preferences. Encourage comfortable yet stylish choices that align with your theme.
Related Resources on Wedding Dress Code Wording
Choosing the right dress code wording for your wedding invitation sets the tone for your special day and helps your guests feel confident about what to wear. Whether you go for elegant black tie, relaxed casual, or a fun themed look, make sure the wording reflects your wedding’s vibe. With these simple and clear dress code examples, you’ll ensure your guests are dressed to impress and ready to celebrate your big day in style!
Additional Resources:
