How To Convey Cocktail Attire On Wedding Invites

If you're wondering where to include cocktail attire on your wedding invites, there are a few options. You can include the dress code on the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation or at the bottom centre of the design. Alternatively, if you're including a separate information or details card, you can list the dress code there. If you have a wedding website, you can also include the dress code there, along with other important information for your guests. While some people consider it rude to dictate a dress code, others find it helpful to have guidance on what to wear to a wedding. Ultimately, it's your decision on whether or not to include a dress code on your wedding invites.

Where to include the dress code on the wedding invite

If you want to specify a dress code for your wedding, there are a few places you can include this information. Firstly, you can add it to your wedding invitation. The dress code can be placed in the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation, or at the bottom centre of the design. Alternatively, if you would prefer to keep your invitation simple, you can include the dress code on a separate information or details card, along with other important information for your guests.

Another option is to include the dress code on your wedding website, if you have one. This is a good way to provide guests with more detailed information about the dress code and any other relevant details. For example, you could explain that your venue requires a jacket and tie, or that the ceremony will be on the beach, and suggest appropriate attire. If your website includes multiple event pages, you can add a specific dress code for each event.

Some people consider it rude to include a dress code on a wedding invitation, so you may prefer to spread the information by word of mouth, or include it on a wedding website or FAQ page instead.

How to describe the cocktail attire

When it comes to weddings, mentioning a dress code on your invitation ensures your event stays as formal or as casual as you want it to be. It's also helpful for guests to know what is expected of them when it comes to attire.

Cocktail attire is a step above smart casual. It's not overly formal and encourages guests to dress up without adhering to a strict black-tie dress code.

For women, cocktail attire typically means dresses and heels, but it doesn't have to. A cocktail dress can be fun, flirty, and creative. The classic cocktail dress is a go-to for any semi-formal event, but jumpsuits are also a great option. The hem should be above the knee or any length above floor-length. When it comes to shoes, a classy pair of pumps or slingback wedges are a good choice. Accessories can include statement earrings or a sparkly clutch.

For men, cocktail attire means a suit (a tie is optional) or a sports jacket and a dress shirt. The definitive shoe for this dress code is a loafer—tasselled, suede, or penny. A silk neck scarf, pocket square, or pin on the lapel are great ways to accessorise.

When describing cocktail attire on your wedding invitation, you can include it on the lower left or right-hand corner, at the bottom centre, or on a separate information/details card. You could use phrases such as "cocktail attire," "semi-formal," or "evening cocktail attire."

What to wear to a cocktail attire wedding

There are a few places you can include a dress code on your wedding invitation. You could include it on the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation, at the bottom centre of the design, or on a separate information or details card. If you're providing a wedding website for other details, you can also list your dress code there.

Now, what to wear to a cocktail attire wedding.

Cocktail wedding attire is a slightly more elevated dress code than semi-formal attire but is less formal than formal wedding attire (also known as black-tie optional). It's dressier than business casual and fancier than dressy casual. It's a chance to dress up and look elegant and polished, but not so much that you take away from the bride.

For women, a cocktail dress or formal jumpsuit is a good option. A midi or knee-length dress is appropriate, and you can also wear a full-length jumpsuit, a dressy suit, or a skirt and sweater. Avoid anything too tight, short, or revealing, and stay away from casual fabrics like cotton jersey and sweater knits. You can also experiment with colours, textures, and prints. If you're attending an evening event at a fancy hotel or ballroom, you can add some glitz to your look with bold accessories. For a daytime event, pare back on the jewellery and opt for classic pumps instead of stilettos.

For men, a suit and tie are required for cocktail attire. You can experiment with colours, textures, and prints. Go with darker hues in the colder months or for evening events, and lighter greys or blues in warmer weather or for daytime celebrations. If you're attending a beach wedding, you can wear a colourful printed shirt under your suit jacket. For an evening event at a fancy hotel, you might want to add a tie.

Examples of wording for the dress code

There are a few different ways to indicate that your wedding will be a cocktail attire event. Here are some examples:

• "Cocktail attire. We suggest that men wear a suit or dress shirt with a tie and women wear a midi or knee-length dress or dressy separates."
• "Cocktail attire is encouraged. For men, this means a suit (tie optional) or sports jacket and dress shirt. For women, a dress or jumpsuit that is shorter than floor-length is appropriate."
• "Our wedding will be cocktail attire. This means a suit and tie for men, and a dress or pantsuit for women."
• "Please join us for an evening of cocktails and celebration. Attire for the evening will be cocktail. For those unsure, this means a suit for men and a dress for women."
• "We request that guests wear cocktail attire for our special day. This means a suit and tie for men and a dress, jumpsuit, or pantsuit for women."

It is worth noting that some sources suggest that the dress code should not be included on the invitation itself, but rather on a separate information card or on the wedding website.

The dress code for different types of weddings

When it comes to wedding attire, it's important to consider the formality of the event, the venue, and the time of day. While most wedding invitations include the preferred dress code, it can sometimes be hard to decipher what each code means. Here is a guide to help you understand the dress code for different types of weddings:

White-Tie

White-tie is the most formal of all wedding dress codes and is usually reserved for very elegant events like state dinners and royal banquets. For men, white-tie attire includes a long, dark tuxedo tailcoat with fabric extensions to the knee, a white piqué button-down shirt, a white vest, a bow tie, and matching trousers. Women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown with elegant accessories.

Black-Tie

Black-tie is the next most formal dress code and usually indicates a formal, evening wedding. Men typically wear tuxedos with black bow ties and women wear formal floor-length gowns. It's important to note that black-tie is a strict dress code, and a black suit is not considered appropriate.

Black-Tie Optional

This dress code is slightly less formal than black-tie, and guests have more flexibility. Men can wear a dark suit with dress pants and loafers, while women can choose a floor-length gown or a knee-length cocktail dress. The time of day can also be a factor, with more formal outfits leaning towards the evening.

Formal

Formal attire is a common dress code for weddings and is slightly less formal than black-tie. Men can wear a jacket and tie or a traditional suit, while women can opt for a nice cocktail dress, a pantsuit, or a floor-length gown. When in doubt, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Cocktail

Cocktail attire is a balance between elegance and comfort. Women should choose a tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress, while men are required to wear a suit and tie. This dress code allows for more flexibility with hemlines, colours, and patterns, and is a step down from black-tie in terms of formality.

Semi-Formal

Semi-formal attire is a step down from cocktail attire and is usually indicated for evening weddings. Darker, more formal colours are recommended, while light colours and airy fabrics are suitable for daytime weddings. Women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, or a dressy pantsuit, while men can opt for a dress shirt and slacks, with the option to wear a tie.

Dressy Casual

Dressy casual attire is similar to business casual. For outdoor weddings or weddings held during the day, guests can take a more informal approach. Elegant sundresses, button-down shirts, and dress pants are appropriate. For indoor weddings, basic suits and modest looks are recommended.

Casual

Casual attire usually indicates an outdoor or beach wedding. While guests should still dress appropriately, jeans, shorts, and flip-flops are not suitable. Women can wear a summer sundress or a floral mini dress with wedges or sandals, while men can opt for dress pants or khakis with a collared shirt and the option of a tie or sports jacket.

When it comes to specifying the dress code on a wedding invitation, there are a few options. The dress code can be included on the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation, at the bottom centre, or on a separate information card. Alternatively, it can be mentioned on the wedding website or spread by word of mouth.

Frequently asked questions