How to Mention a Dress Code on Invitation
To save the most asked question upon receiving a wedding invite, we’re putting a guide on how to put the dress code detail or mention it on your invite without sounding too demanding or strict. No need to worry because we lay down one-by-one the answers to save you from potential fallouts. This blog will also guide you on incorporating etiquette and picking the best wording options for such.
From black-tie affairs to casual garden weddings, we’ll provide different approaches to ensure your guests dress appropriately for your special day. Let us help you balance being clear about your expectations and maintaining a friendly and inviting tone.
Tips for Mentioning a Dress Code on Your Wedding Invitation
Remember these pointers when incorporating a dress code into your wedding invite.
Use Clear Wording
You can clarify the dress code by wording it at the wedding invitation card’s center or bottom right corner. Don’t add wordings that can make your guests confused, such a “retro Hawaiian dress,” “country club casual,” or “resort formal.”
Use Friendly Tone
State the dress code in your invitation using a friendly tone. Also, be sure it sounds fun instead of feeling obligated to. This makes your guests want to participate. You can use “please” or “we suggest” to communicate your point.
Non-Traditional Dress Codes
For a non-traditional dress code, use precise wording as well. For example, you can use “casual picnic attire,” where guests can wear summer dresses or skirts, button-down shirts, and slacks. Also, add a thoughtful line, like “The service will be held on the lawn. Please wear appropriate footwear.”
Examples of Mentioning a Dress Code on Your Wedding Invitation
Telling your guests about the dress code on your invites can be simple and easy with these examples.
White Tie
A full evening dress or white tie is the most formal wedding dress code.
- We ask men to wear long-tail tuxedos and women to dress in full-length ball gowns.
- Gentlemen are kindly requested to don tails, while ladies are encouraged to grace the occasion in elegant full-length gowns.
Black Tie
This dress code often indicates an evening when men should opt for tuxedos or well-tailored dark suits, and women should wear floor-length gowns or elegant evening dresses.
- We kindly ask gentlemen to don tuxedos and ladies to select formal gowns of their choice, irrespective of length.
Formal or Black-Tie Optional
Your guests are encouraged to don attires that fit a black tie dress code, but it’s optional.
- We ask that men wear a dark suit or a tuxedo and tie and women a midi or knee-length cocktail dress or an evening gown.
- We ask that men wear dark suits or tuxedos and women wear dresses or formal evening pants in colors of their choice.
Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual Attire
These phrases suggest referring to the time or season of the year.
- Considering the current season in California, gentlemen may opt for suits or sports jackets paired with trousers, and ladies may elegantly dress in dresses or refined dressy pants.
- For this season in New York, may we propose the following attire:
Men – A light dress shirt with khaki or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties are at your discretion.
Women – Sundresses or airy separates paired with wedge heels or flats for the outdoor ceremony on the grass.
Cocktail Attire
This dress code is not overly formal, balancing black-tie optional and semi-formal.
- We ask that men wear a suit and tie or dress shirt or sports jacket and women wear knee-length, above-the-knee, or midi dress.
Casual Attire
Casual attire indicates an outdoor or beachside celebration.
- With the beach as our backdrop, we recommend gentlemen opt for lightweight pants or dress shorts alongside a button-down shirt or polo. Jackets and ties are optional. Women can wear sundresses or chic dressy separates paired with platform or strappy sandals.
Festive Attire
This wedding dress code encourages the guests to wear something bright, colorful, or creative.
- We suggest that men wear creatively patterned pocket squares or suits with bright ties, and women are encouraged to wear fun-colored cocktail or party dresses with playful accessories, heels, or flats.
While having a dress code that complements your wedding’s aesthetic is essential, prioritize your guests’ comfort. Avoid overly restrictive dress codes that might make guests feel uncomfortable or excluded. This ensures your guests can enjoy the celebration to the fullest. Also, consider our All-In-One Premium Wedding Planning Spreadsheet to make your wedding preparation more organized and less stressful. With this easy-to-customize spreadsheet, you’ll miss no deadline, and it keeps you calm during the entire planning process.
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