Guide To Listing Attire Instructions On Wedding Invitations

It's important to let your wedding guests know what attire is expected of them. There are several ways to do this, from including the dress code on the invitation itself to adding it to a separate information card or your wedding website. You can also use subtle hints, such as the invitation's wording, font choices, and colours, to indicate the formality of the event. For example, a formal affair usually calls for customary phrasing, such as request the honour of your presence. If you're having a black-tie wedding, it's best to stick to traditional etiquette guidelines. On the other hand, if you're going for a more casual vibe, you might opt for a fun script or chalkboard-style print. The time of day can also be a clue: a wedding starting after 6 pm usually calls for more formal attire.

Where to include the dress code on the invitation

When it comes to wedding invitations, it is essential to provide guests with clear information about the dress code. This ensures that everyone is appropriately attired and contributes to the desired atmosphere for the celebration. Here are some instructive and focused guidelines on where to include the dress code on your wedding invitations:

The Wedding Invitation Itself

The most straightforward approach is to include the dress code directly on the wedding invitation. It is generally considered acceptable to place it in the lower left or right corner of the invitation or at the bottom centre. This way, guests will easily spot the dress code details along with other essential information such as the date, location, and time.

Separate Information or Details Card

If you want to keep your wedding invitation simple and uncluttered, consider including a separate information or details card along with the invitation. This card can provide additional important details, such as RSVP information, travel arrangements, or accommodation options. Including the dress code on this card ensures that guests receive the information without overcrowding the invitation itself.

Wedding Website

In today's digital age, many couples opt to create a wedding website. This website can serve as a one-stop shop for all wedding-related information, including the dress code. Include the dress code on the homepage along with the welcome message, wedding date, venue, and time. If your website has multiple event pages, you can specify the dress code for each event, providing guests with clear guidance.

Back of the Invitation

While not the most common practice, you can utilise the back of the invitation to provide dress code details. This option allows you to keep the front of the invitation clean and elegant while still conveying the necessary information. However, be mindful that guests may overlook this information if they don't turn over the invitation.

Wording and Etiquette

When including the dress code on your wedding invitation, use clear and polite wording that aligns with the tone of the rest of the invitation. Widely known dress code terms such as "black tie," "cocktail attire," or "semi-formal" can effectively convey your expectations. You can also add a brief sentence or two of explanation if you wish. For example, "We suggest a semi-formal attire for our outdoor wedding ceremony."

How to design the invitation to reflect the dress code

The design of your wedding invitation can be a clue to your preferred dress code. Here are some tips to help you communicate your dress code expectations to your guests through your invitation design:

Formal Dress Code

To convey a formal dress code, consider designing a classy black-and-white invitation with calligraphy. The traditional and fine print options, such as engraving, letterpress, or gold foil, are often associated with fancier celebrations. The wording should be formal and traditional, such as "request the honour of your presence" or "request the pleasure of your company."

Casual Dress Code

For a more casual event, play with colours and fonts. A bright-coloured, square invitation with a loopy font reflects a relaxed dress code. Quirky envelope liners and colourful envelopes also indicate a more casual affair.

Themed Wedding

If you're having a themed wedding, include elements of your theme on the invitation. For example, if your theme is "all white," use white stationery. If your theme is "under the sea," include nautical images. This will help guests understand the expected attire.

Venue-Specific Dress Code

The venue can also provide clues about the dress code. For instance, a beach wedding is likely more casual than a resort wedding. However, if you're having a black-tie wedding in a barn, you'll need to explicitly state the dress code.

Visual Guidance

Consider including visual guidance with your dress code description. You can create a Pinterest board with examples of the looks you want your guests to achieve, especially for themed weddings.

Wording and Tone

Use straightforward wording, such as "black-tie event" or "semi-formal." You can also provide brief details next to the dress code, such as "tuxedos and formal gowns" for a black-tie event. Keep the tone friendly and guiding rather than enforcing rules.

What to include on a separate information/details card

There are several ways to inform your guests about the wedding attire without having to explicitly state it on the invitation. Here are some ideas on what to include on a separate information/details card:

Be Direct:

You can be straightforward and direct by including a simple phrase or sentence about the dress code. For example:

• "Black-tie event"
• "Semi-formal attire"
• "Cocktail attire"
• "Beach/garden party attire"
• "Casual dress"

Provide Visual Guidance:

Instead of or in addition to a written dress code, you could include visual cues on the details card. For instance, you could attach inspiration photos or create a Pinterest board with examples of the looks you want your guests to emulate. This is especially helpful if you have a specific theme, like a "polka dots" or "red and/or black" theme.

Explain the Venue and Activities:

Another way to hint at the appropriate attire is to provide details about the venue and the activities planned. For example:

• "Our wedding and reception will be held in the grass, so dress for comfort and class. Heels are not advised unless you like being stuck in the dirt!"
• "The wedding will take place at our backyard in August, so please dress comfortably and avoid spiky high heels."
• "The venue has uneven floors and an incline, so flat shoes are the best and safest option."
• "The wedding will be held outdoors, so please dress accordingly and bring layers for the evening."

Make it Fun:

You can also add a touch of humour or make it into a game. For example:

• "Wear your finest picnic attire and some comfy shoes. Casual dress and bare feet encouraged!"
• "Our wedding theme is polka dots. So, if you have 'em, wear 'em!"
• "High grass is known to attract velociraptors. Avoid being mistaken for a competitor toe-claw and avoid wearing high heels."

Remember, the key is to keep the information short and sweet, while providing enough guidance to ensure your guests are comfortable and appropriately dressed for the occasion.

How to communicate the dress code on your wedding website

A wedding website is a great way to communicate with your guests and set expectations for your big day. It's the perfect place to provide more detailed information about the dress code than you might be able to include on your invitations. Here are some tips and examples to help you communicate the dress code effectively:

Where to Include the Dress Code

Firstly, you'll want to add the dress code to a prominent section of your website, such as the homepage, so that guests can easily find it. You can also provide a more detailed description on your FAQs page. If your website includes multiple event pages (e.g. for a welcome reception, the wedding day, and a post-wedding brunch), you can add a specific dress code for each event.

How to Word the Dress Code

When it comes to wording, be specific and use clear, concise language to describe your dress code. Avoid vague terms that could be misinterpreted, and consider providing examples to prevent confusion. Here are some examples of dress code wording for different levels of formality:

White Tie:

"We kindly request white tie attire. Gentlemen, please wear a tuxedo with a white shirt, white vest, and white bow tie. Ladies, a floor-length gown or ball gown is perfect."

Black Tie:

"Our wedding will be a formal affair. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear a tuxedo. Ladies can opt for a floor-length gown or a formal cocktail dress."

Black Tie Optional/Formal:

"Please wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with a necktie if you're a man, or an evening gown or cocktail dress if you're a woman. You can also wear a pantsuit or dressy separates."

Semi-Formal:

"We request that gentlemen wear a suit or blazer with dress pants, and ladies wear a midi-length cocktail dress or dressy separates."

Cocktail Attire:

"Gentlemen, please wear a suit or dress shirt. Ladies, a cocktail dress or dressy separates are perfect. We recommend bringing a jacket for the evening."

Smart Casual:

"Gentlemen, please wear dress pants or chinos with a button-down shirt or polo. Ladies, a sundress, skirt, or dressy pants with a nice top would be lovely."

Additional Tips

While it's okay to share special requests, such as reflecting your colour theme, avoid making this a mandatory requirement. Keep your wording casual and polite. You can also include practical notes, such as recommending a warm jacket or suggesting comfortable footwear for an outdoor wedding.

Remember, a dress code is just a suggestion, and your guests have the right to wear whatever they choose. Most guests will appreciate the courtesy of knowing the attire ahead of time and will feel more confident in their outfit choices.

What to do if you're having a themed wedding

If you're having a themed wedding, it's important to communicate the theme clearly to your guests. Here are some tips to ensure your guests understand the theme and dress code:

Provide Clear Information on the Invitation

Include the dress code in the corner copy of your invitation, or on a separate reception card if the ceremony and reception are in different locations. Use straightforward wording such as "black tie" or "semi-formal", and consider including a brief description or examples for guests who may be unfamiliar with different dress codes. If your theme has specific costume requirements, make sure to mention this clearly.

Use Visual Clues

The design of your invitation can also reflect the theme and expected attire. For example, if your theme is "under the sea," include nautical images or a watercolour flower motif for a garden wedding. The font and colour choices can also provide subtle hints; darker colours like navy and charcoal suggest formality, while light and poppy colours indicate a more low-key event.

Create a Wedding Website

Include the dress code information and visual guidance on your wedding website, and provide the website address on your invitations. This is especially useful for themed weddings, as you can include photos and a style guide to give your guests a clearer idea of what to wear.

Add Finishing Touches to the Packaging

The presentation of your invitation can also indicate formality. Finishing touches like a wax seal, personalised belly band, or calligraphy on the envelopes suggest a more formal affair, while colourful envelopes and quirky envelope liners may indicate a more casual event.

Be Mindful of Your Venue

If your ceremony and reception are in the same venue, this can also provide clues about the dress code. A beach wedding is likely to be more casual than a resort wedding, for example. However, if your theme and venue don't match the expected level of formality (e.g. a black-tie wedding in a barn), make sure to communicate your expectations clearly to avoid confusion.

Keep an Open Line of Communication

Finally, remember that your guests may have questions or concerns about the dress code or theme. Be prepared to answer any queries and provide additional guidance if needed. It's important to make your guests feel comfortable and ensure they have a positive experience at your wedding.

Frequently asked questions