Wedding Attire: Specify Or Not On Invitations?

When it comes to wedding invitations, it is often important to specify the attire or dress code expected of guests. This is because the dress code can vary depending on the formality of the wedding, the time of day, and the location. For example, a black-tie dress code typically indicates a formal, evening event, while a casual dress code suggests an outdoor or beach wedding. By specifying the attire on the invitation, couples can ensure that their guests feel confident and appropriate in their clothing choices. This also helps to prevent any confusion or misunderstandings about the expected level of formality.

Black-tie events: tuxedos and floor-length gowns

Black-tie events are the most formal of wedding dress codes, aside from the rare white-tie events. This dress code is usually reserved for formal evening weddings, where men are expected to wear tuxedos and women wear floor-length gowns.

For men, the black-tie dress code is quite strict: the outfit should consist of a tuxedo with a black bow tie, a white shirt, and black dress shoes. The tuxedo does not have to be black, with midnight blue being a modern alternative. A vest or cummerbund (never worn together), as well as cufflinks, can elevate the look. Shoes should reflect the formality of the attire, with options including loafers, derbies, and monk straps. Black socks and a bow tie are the only appropriate choices for this dress code.

For women, black-tie attire is a floor-length gown, typically in a formal fabric like silk charmeuse, chiffon, or Mikado, and embellished with lace, embroidery, or crystals. However, the modern black-tie dress code calls for more fashion risks, with bolder colours and varying silhouettes. Evening gowns and elegant suits are the standard, but women can also opt for a trumpet or ball gown silhouette, formal cocktail dresses, or a simple dressy sheath made from rich fabrics and fine details. As for colours, all colours are acceptable, except for white or anything similar. The only other colour to avoid is the one chosen by the bride for her bridesmaids' dresses. Black is a perfectly acceptable colour, and a floor-length black gown or little black dress is an elegant, classy choice. Jewellery should be elegant, and a clutch bag should be formal, made of satin, patent leather, or a fabric that matches the shoes or dress.

If you are unsure whether your black-tie attire is formal enough, ask yourself: "Can I wear this to a semi-formal party, or would this be overdone?" If it's overdone, then you're in the black-tie zone.

Formal attire: dark suits and floor-length dresses or pantsuits

If you want to specify a dress code for your wedding, it's helpful to include this information on your wedding invitations, on a separate information card, or on your wedding website. This ensures your event stays as formal or as casual as you want it to be and gives your guests clear guidance on what to wear.

If you choose to include "formal attire" as your dress code, this means that guests should wear clothing that is slightly less formal than black tie. For men, this means a dark suit with a shirt and tie—a tuxedo is not required. For women, formal attire means a floor-length gown, a knee-length cocktail dress, a dressy pantsuit, or dressy separates. Dark suits and floor-length dresses or pantsuits should be worn in dark, formal colours such as black, navy, olive, or burgundy.

If you want to give your guests more flexibility, you can specify "black-tie optional" or "formal or black-tie optional" as your dress code. This means that guests can wear a tuxedo or a floor-length evening gown if they want, but a dark suit with dress pants and nice loafers, or a knee-length or midi cocktail dress, would also be acceptable.

Cocktail attire: suits and tea-length or knee-length dresses

If you're inviting guests to a wedding with a cocktail attire dress code, it's a good idea to specify this on the invitation so that guests know what to expect. You can include this information on the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation, or at the bottom centre of the design. Alternatively, you could include it on a separate information card or on your wedding website.

Cocktail attire is a versatile dress code that allows guests to express their personal style with a touch of sophistication. It strikes a balance between formal and casual, as well as elegant and comfortable. For women, cocktail attire typically means a knee-length, tea-length, or midi dress. A safe option is a knee- or tea-length black dress, but other colours and prints are also appropriate. Women can also wear dressy suits or nice jumpsuits paired with heels or formal flats. While a short dress is a common choice, longer dresses are also appropriate for cocktail attire, especially in the winter. The key is to choose a less formal fabric so as not to appear overdressed. Slits and high-low hems are also a fun way to dress down a longer ensemble.

For men, cocktail attire typically means a suit and tie. The colour of the suit can vary depending on the season; darker hues are more appropriate for chillier months or evening events, while lighter colours like grey or blue are better for warmer weather or daytime celebrations. Men should also wear a nice pair of dark dress shoes that match their belt. Even if the wedding is held at a more relaxed venue, such as a beach, barn, or vineyard, a jacket and tie are still expected for cocktail attire. The jacket and tie should remain on during the formalities, including dinner.

Semi-formal: suits and dresses or pantsuits

If you want to specify a semi-formal dress code for your wedding, it's a good idea to include this information on your wedding invitations. This will ensure your guests know what to wear and will help you maintain the desired level of formality for your event.

For men, semi-formal attire typically includes a suit or a nice blazer with dress pants and a tie. It's best to choose a classic suit in a dark colour, such as black or brown, and pair it with a dress shirt and dress shoes in matching colours. Men can also add accessories such as a tie, pocket square, or cufflinks to elevate their look.

For women, semi-formal attire can include a stylish cocktail dress or a smart pantsuit. Midi or maxi dresses, jumpsuits, or chic suits are also appropriate options. When it comes to footwear, women can choose between high heels, pumps, or flats to complete their look. Accessories such as clutches, necklaces, earrings, or a bold lip can add a touch of personality and glamour to the outfit.

It's important to note that semi-formal attire is more relaxed and versatile than formal attire, but it still requires sharp dressing. This means that guests should avoid overly casual outfits, such as jeans or athletic wear, and instead opt for polished and refined looks.

• "Semi-formal attire. We suggest suits and dresses or pantsuits. Please note that jeans and sneakers are not permitted at the venue."
• "For men, we request suits or blazers with dress pants and a tie. For women, we suggest cocktail dresses, pantsuits, or dressy separates."
• "The dress code for our wedding is semi-formal. We kindly request that men wear suits with a tie, and women wear dresses or pantsuits."
• "We invite you to join us for our semi-formal wedding celebration. For attire, we suggest suits for men and dresses or pantsuits for women."

Casual: button-down shirts and summer dresses or skirts

It is helpful to specify the attire on a wedding invitation so that guests know what is expected of them. This can be done by including the dress code on the invitation itself, on a separate information card, or on the wedding website.

If you are going for a casual dress code, here are some suggestions for wording your invitation:

"We want you to be comfortable at our wedding. We suggest the following attire: button-down shirts with khaki pants for men and sundresses with dressy flats or comfortable heels for women."

"Our wedding will be taking place outdoors in the grass. We suggest sundresses and sandals for women and button-down shirts with pants for men. Please, no athletic wear."

"May we suggest button-down shirts with khaki pants for men and sundresses or skirts with dressy flats or comfortable heels for women."

"For this outdoor celebration, we suggest light and casual attire. For men, we suggest button-down shirts and khakis or shorts. For women, sundresses, skirts, or lightweight separates and flats or sandals."

It is important to provide clear guidance for your guests, but also remember that it is their choice what they ultimately wear. Your guests' cheerful presence is what counts!

Frequently asked questions