Black Tie Optional: Crafting The Perfect Wedding Invitation

If you're wondering how to communicate a black tie optional dress code to your wedding guests, you're not alone. While the traditional black tie dress code has been the standard since the 19th century, black tie optional is a newer, more flexible option that can be confusing for guests.

Black tie optional means that you want your wedding to be a formal affair, but you understand that this implies fancier and more expensive attire for your guests. By making it optional, you're giving your guests more aesthetic leeway and avoiding putting undue pressure or financial burden on them.

Where to include the dress code on the invitation

There are several ways to include the dress code on a wedding invitation. Here are some options for where to place it:

The Wedding Invitation

You can include the dress code in the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation. Alternatively, you can place it at the bottom centre of the design. This way, your guests will be sure to notice the dress code details.

A Separate Information/Details Card

If you are providing additional information for your guests, such as a details or information card, you can include the dress code there. This keeps your invitation simple and elegant while still conveying all the necessary information.

Your Wedding Website

If you have a wedding website, you can use it to provide your guests with important details, including the dress code. This option allows you to provide a more comprehensive explanation of the dress code and any specific guidelines or preferences you may have.

The Bottom Right Corner

According to some sources, the bottom right corner of the invitation is the traditional placement for the dress code. This location ensures that your guests will take note of the dress code specifications.

Centred at the Bottom

Another option is to centre the dress code information at the bottom of the invitation. This format maintains symmetry and balance in the design while still conveying the necessary details.

The Top of the Invitation

While less common, you could also consider placing the dress code at the top of the invitation. This approach ensures that your guests see the dress code information immediately upon reading the invitation.

What to wear if you don't want to wear black

If you want to avoid wearing black to a black-tie-optional wedding, there are several other colours you can choose from. For women, any hue is appropriate apart from whites, pastels, and neons. Luxe-looking fabrics, patterns, and textures can be dressed up or down with accessories, but it's best to keep patterns more muted to adhere to the formal vibe. If you're unsure, opt for colours that match the season of the event. For a summer wedding, look for blue, pink, orange, and yellow gowns. For a winter wedding, choose from black, navy, and jewel tones.

Floor-length gowns are the go-to for women, but a fancy cocktail dress or a dressy pantsuit are also good options. If you want to avoid a dress altogether, a jumpsuit is a stylish alternative. Just make sure to avoid anything too short, casual, or revealing.

Men, on the other hand, should stick to black, navy, or dark-coloured suits. A tuxedo is not required but is a plus if you do choose to wear one. Wool and velvet are excellent fabric choices, and an ivory jacket with black trousers is a great option for a summer evening wedding.

Overall, the key to nailing black-tie-optional attire is to dress up and experiment with hair, makeup, and jewellery to elevate your look.

What to wear if you don't want to wear a tux or gown

What to Wear to a Black-Tie-Optional Wedding If You Don't Want to Wear a Tux or Gown

Black-tie-optional weddings can be a sartorial minefield to navigate, especially if you don't want to wear a tux or a gown. Here are some tips on what to wear to look your best while respecting the dress code:

For Men:

• A dark-coloured suit in charcoal, deep navy, or black is a perfect alternative to a tuxedo. Avoid brown suits, as they are usually associated with country wear.
• Solid colours or very faint patterns like a light windowpane design are ideal. You can opt for a two-piece or three-piece suit, single-breasted or double-breasted, as long as they are made from the same cloth.
• A white dress shirt is ideal, preferably with French cuffs. If not, a light blue shirt will do, but avoid any other colours or patterns.
• A dark, solid-coloured necktie or bow tie is a must. Avoid black bow ties, as they are the centrepiece of the black-tie dress code. Try colours like burgundy, navy, dark green, or dark plum.
• Black leather oxford or derby shoes are the best choice. Well-shined derby shoes in a very dark brown or oxblood colour can also work.
• Keep your dress socks dark, matching the colour of your trousers or tie. Avoid bright colours and flashy patterns.
• Accessories like cufflinks, tie bars, and collar clips can add a touch of elegance.

For Women:

• A midi-length dress is a great alternative to a full-length gown. Avoid anything above the knee, as it may be too casual.
• Jumpsuits are also an option, but choose a tailored, elevated style over something too casual or laid-back.
• Dark colours like black, navy, charcoal, emerald, and burgundy are ideal. Avoid anything too light or bright.
• Accessories like an embellished flat or sharp lace-up oxford shoes can dress up your look.

What not to wear

When it comes to black-tie-optional wedding attire, there are a few things that guests should avoid wearing. Here are some tips on what not to wear:

For Women:

• While a floor-length dress is preferred, if you opt for a cocktail dress, ensure it's not too short. Anything above the knee will be too casual. Midi or knee-length dresses are acceptable.
• Avoid anything too casual or laid-back. Stay away from bold patterns, day dresses, and sandals.
• Choose a formal fabric such as silk, chiffon, or taffeta instead of cotton or linen.
• Don't wear anything too revealing or overly sequined. The focus should be on the bride, so avoid any ensemble that might take away the attention.
• Stay away from whites, pastels, and neon hues. These colours may be too light or casual for the occasion.
• Avoid short or mini dresses. Black-tie-optional calls for a more formal look, so opt for a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit instead.

For Men:

• If you don't have a tuxedo, opt for a dark suit. Black or navy are good choices.
• Avoid khaki slacks and casual footwear like sandals or raffia wedges.
• Don't wear white, ivory, or cream. These colours are too light and may take away attention from the couple.
• Stick to dark-coloured suits, regardless of the season. Black-tie-optional calls for a more formal look, so avoid anything too bold or flashy.

How to style your hair and makeup

When it comes to hair and makeup, black-tie optional invites you to experiment and elevate your everyday look. If you usually wear your hair in a ponytail, try an updo, or if you typically wear your hair down, try a half-up-half-down style.

For makeup, go bold! This is your chance to try a new, glamorous look. If you need some inspiration, search for celebrity red-carpet looks and recreate your favourite.

For an extra-special touch, consider booking a professional hair and makeup artist. They will be able to create a long-lasting, polished look and can often come to your home or venue.

Remember, black-tie optional is an opportunity to dress up and have fun with your style. So, take the chance to experiment and step into a glamorous new version of yourself!

Frequently asked questions