Wedding Invitation Dress Code Wording: 25+ Examples for Every Dress Code
As a wedding invitation designer with 10+ years of experience, I like to think I know a thing or two about wedding dress codes. After all, it's my job! Most couples will include their event dress code on their wedding invitations, typically on a details card. But more often than not, couples aren’t quite sure what to write. And occasionally, the dress code they’ve given me doesn’t quite align with the mood board they’ve shared.
So, what is your wedding dress code? Before we dive into the right wording for your invitations, here’s a quick refresher on the most common dress code options and what each one actually means.
Wedding Dress Codes Ranked from Least to Most Formal
Casual
Most commonly seen in outdoor or beach weddings. Sundresses and dress sandals are acceptable for women. For men, dress pants or khakis with a collared shirt is allowed.
Semi-Formal
In my experience, the vast majority of Oklahoma weddings are semi-formal. Slip dresses, pantsuits, and knee-length dresses are acceptable for women. Men can expect to wear a dress shirt and slacks with or without the tie.
Cocktail
Cocktail attire is a slightly elevated version of semi-formal, where dresses should be either midi or knee-length. Men should wear a suit and tie paired with more casual footwear, like loafers or Oxfords.
Formal
A step down from black tie, men should wear a tailored suit and tie. The tuxedo is optional. Women should dress in more conservative black tie attire (see below).
Black Tie
For men, a tuxedo with a bowtie is a must. Men traditionally wear black with leather dress shoes. For women, floor-length gowns (in any color) are expected in formal fabrics like silk and organza.
White Tie
The often-overlooked white tie is the most formal category of dresswear. Women should wear floor-length ballgowns with heels. Men should wear tuxedos with tails, a vest, and bowtie. Gloves are optional. I have never seen a white tie wedding in Oklahoma, but it's possible!
Some experts consider festive and tropical/destination to be distinct categories, but I would argue both are specific requests that can be made for any dress code above. I will address special dress code requests a little later in this post! If you want more information on dress codes with examples, check out this helpful Vogue article.
How to Word Dress Code on Wedding Invitations
A quick Google search will reveal dozens of clever ways to state your dress code preferences, but I find that my couples are always limited on space. After all, your details card is only 4x6 inches! Below is a list of simple and concise dress code wording options for your wedding invitations, sorted by flexibility.
If your dress code is non-negotiable:
State it plainly on the details card or main invitation. Tell, don't suggest.
Black tie attire.
Dress code is white tie.
The Miller wedding is a black tie affair.
Dress semi-formal.
Bright, festive attire is requested.
We kindly request cocktail attire.
Elevated cocktail retire requested.
Please wear tropical attire.
Formal attire.
If your dress code is a guideline:
Softer wording is more appropriate but should still be specific and clear.
Cocktail attire suggested.
Formal attire preferred.
We politely ask that you dress in semi-formal attire.
We suggest casual attire.
Come as you are! Casual attire welcome.
Semi-formal attire recommended.
Cocktail attire highly encouraged.
Black tie optional.
Formal attire preferred but not required.
If your dress code is unique:
No two weddings are exactly alike, which is why custom dress codes are my favorite! The following examples are 100% real and pulled from former Prim Paper Co. clients:
Indian attire or formal American wear is requested.
Please avoid wearing red.
Colorful attire requested.
Please avoid shades of pink.
No jeans, please.
This will be a masquerade wedding. Face covering required.
Please refrain from wearing navy blue attire.
Boots and hats encouraged.
No matter what dress code you choose for your event, working with a professional stationer can give you confidence and clarity in your wedding invitation wording. If you want help with your wedding invitation dress code wording, you can always chat with us for free!
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Looking for more helpful hints for your wedding invitations? I've got you covered!
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