Dress Code Done Right: Wording Examples for Wedding Invitations

Struggling to find the right wordings for your wedding invitation dress code?

Whether you're aiming for a black tie affair, a casual garden party, or a cultural celebration, we’ve got you covered.

Our guide provides elegant and inviting dress code wording examples to ensure your wedding guests arrive appropriately dressed and ready to celebrate in style.

Category	Subcategory	Dress Code Wording
Formal	Black Tie	Black Tie Attire Requested
		Formal Evening Attire
		Black Tie Required
	Black Tie Optional	Black Tie Optional
		Formal Attire Encouraged
		Optional Black Tie
	White Tie	White Tie Attire
		Full Evening Dress
		White Tie Required
Semi-Formal	Cocktail Attire	Cocktail Attire
		Dress to Impress
		Elegant Cocktail Wear
	Semi-Formal	Semi-Formal Attire
		Smart Attire
		Dressy Casual
Casual/Smart Casual	Casual	Casual Attire
		Dress Comfortably
		Relaxed Dress Code
	Smart Casual	Smart Casual Attire
		Neat Casual Wear
		Stylish Casual
Themed Dress Codes	Beach Wedding	Beach Chic
		Beach Formal Attire
		Seaside Elegance
	Garden Party	Garden Party Attire
		Dress for a Garden Setting
		Floral and Light
	Rustic/Barn Wedding	Rustic Chic
		Dress for a Rustic Setting
		Country Elegant
	Vintage	Vintage Attire
		Roaring Twenties
		Retro Glamour
Cultural/Traditional	Cultural/Traditional	Traditional Attire Encouraged
		Cultural Dress Welcomed
		Heritage Attire

Formal/Black Tie

If you want your wedding to have a touch of elegance and feel extra special, asking guests to dress in black tie is the way to go. The sophisticated vibe will have everyone looking amazing, adding a bit of magic to your celebration. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the black tie dress code:

Black Tie Wording Example 1

• "We request the pleasure of your company at an evening of elegance and celebration as we tie the knot. Attire: Black Tie. Please join us in your most exquisite formal wear to make this night truly special."
• Explanation: This example emphasizes the elegance and celebration, inviting guests to join in the formality with their most exquisite attire.

Black Tie Wording Example 2

• "You are cordially invited to the wedding of [Name] and [Name] on [Date]. To honor this special occasion, we kindly request that you dress in black tie attire. Let’s make this a night of timeless elegance and unforgettable memories."
• Explanation: This example uses formal language and a direct request for black tie attire, reinforcing the special nature of the event and the importance of dressing appropriately.

Black Tie Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for a glamorous black tie affair as we celebrate our love on [Date]. Dress Code: Black Tie. Gents in tuxedos and ladies in evening gowns will add to the magic of our night."
• Explanation: This example creates a vivid image of the glamorous setting, specifying the attire for men and women to ensure clarity and set the tone for an enchanting evening.

Formal/Black Tie Optional

If you want a touch of elegance without requiring full formal wear, Black Tie Optional is a great choice. It gives guests the freedom to dress up while allowing for some flexibility. This sets a sophisticated yet comfortable tone for your wedding. 

Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the Black Tie Optional dress code:

Black Tie Optional Wording Example 1

• "We are excited to celebrate with you! Our wedding will be a Black Tie Optional affair, so feel free to wear a tuxedo or a formal suit. We can't wait to see you looking your best!"
• Explanation: This example is friendly and approachable, inviting guests to dress formally but with the option to choose a suit if they prefer.

Black Tie Optional Wording Example 2

• "Please join us for an evening of celebration as we tie the knot. Dress Code: Black Tie Optional. Whether you choose a tuxedo or a suit, we look forward to celebrating with you in style."
• Explanation: This example sets a formal yet flexible tone, encouraging guests to dress up while making it clear that a suit is perfectly acceptable.

Black Tie Optional Wording Example 3

• "You are cordially invited to the wedding of [Name] and [Name] on [Date]. Attire: Black Tie Optional. Tuxedos and formal suits are welcome as we celebrate our special day in style."
• Explanation: This example uses formal language to convey the dress code, making it clear that guests have the option to wear either a tuxedo or a formal suit, maintaining the elegance of the event.

Formal/White Tie

For the utmost in elegance and sophistication, a white tie dress code is the pinnacle of formal attire. This ensures your wedding will be a grand and unforgettable affair, with guests dressed to the nines in their most formal wear. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the white tie dress code:

White Tie Wording Example 1

• "We request the honor of your presence at our white tie wedding on [Date]. Please join us in full evening dress to make this night exceptionally grand."
• Explanation: This example sets a very formal tone, emphasizing the high level of elegance and the expectation of full evening dress.

White Tie Wording Example 2

• "You are cordially invited to the wedding of [Name] and [Name] on [Date]. To celebrate this special occasion, we kindly request that you dress in white tie attire. Let’s make this a night of timeless grandeur and elegance."
• Explanation: This example uses formal language to communicate the dress code, reinforcing the significance of the event and the importance of adhering to the white tie standard.

White Tie Wording Example 3

• "Join us for a truly elegant white tie affair as we celebrate our love on [Date]. Dress Code: White Tie. Gentlemen in tailcoats and ladies in full-length gowns will add to the magic of our night."
• Explanation: This example paints a vivid picture of the grand setting, specifying the attire for men and women to ensure clarity and set the tone for an exquisite evening.

Cocktail Attire

If you’re aiming for a blend of elegance and comfort, semi-formal or cocktail attire is the perfect choice. It encourages guests to dress up without the need for full formal wear, creating a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the semi-formal or cocktail attire dress code:

Cocktail Attire Wording Example 1

• "Join us for a stylish evening as we celebrate our wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Cocktail Attire. We look forward to seeing you in your chic and elegant outfits!"
• Explanation: This example sets a stylish and upbeat tone, inviting guests to dress in their chic and elegant best.

Cocktail Attire Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate with you! Our wedding will be semi-formal, so feel free to dress up in cocktail attire. Suits for men and cocktail dresses for women are perfect."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and approachable, providing clear guidance on what guests should wear while keeping the tone relaxed.

Cocktail Attire Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for our wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Semi-Formal. Think smart attire – cocktail dresses for the ladies and suits for the gents. Let’s celebrate in style!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear instructions on the expected attire, encouraging guests to dress smartly while maintaining a celebratory and stylish tone.

Semi-Formal

For a wedding that strikes a balance between elegance and ease, semi-formal attire is ideal. This dress code encourages guests to look polished and stylish without the need for full formal wear. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the semi-formal dress code:

Semi-Formal Wording Example 1

• "Please join us for an evening of celebration as we tie the knot. Dress Code: Semi-Formal. We look forward to seeing you in your stylish and smart attire."
• Explanation: This example sets a sophisticated yet approachable tone, encouraging guests to dress in polished and stylish attire.

Semi-Formal Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate our wedding with you! Dress Code: Semi-Formal. Suits and dresses are perfect – dress to impress but feel comfortable."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and inviting, providing clear guidance on what guests should wear while maintaining a relaxed tone.

Semi-Formal Wording Example 3

• "Join us for our special day on [Date]. Dress Code: Semi-Formal. Smart attire is requested, so think dressy yet comfortable – we can’t wait to celebrate with you!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear instructions on the expected attire, encouraging guests to dress smartly while emphasizing comfort and celebration.

Casual

If you want a relaxed and laid-back vibe for your wedding, casual attire is the perfect choice. This dress code allows guests to feel comfortable while still looking neat and presentable. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the casual dress code:

Casual Wording Example 1

• "We’re keeping things relaxed for our wedding! Dress Code: Casual. Come as you are and join us for a day of fun and celebration."
• Explanation: This example sets a relaxed and welcoming tone, inviting guests to dress comfortably and enjoy the day.

Casual Wording Example 2

• "Join us for a laid-back celebration as we say ‘I do’. Dress Code: Casual. Feel free to wear your favorite comfortable clothes – we can’t wait to celebrate with you!"
• Explanation: This example is friendly and approachable, encouraging guests to dress in their favorite casual attire for a laid-back celebration.

Casual Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for a relaxed and joyful wedding day. Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable and neat attire is perfect – let’s make it a fun and memorable day together!"
• Explanation: This example emphasizes comfort and joy, ensuring guests feel welcome and at ease with the casual dress code.

Smart Casual

For a wedding that is stylish yet comfortable, smart casual attire strikes the perfect balance. This dress code invites guests to dress neatly without the formality of semi-formal attire. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the smart casual dress code:

Smart Casual Wording Example 1

• "We’re excited to celebrate our wedding with you! Dress Code: Smart Casual. Think neat and stylish – we look forward to seeing you in your best smart casual outfits."
• Explanation: This example sets a stylish and welcoming tone, encouraging guests to dress neatly while feeling comfortable.

Smart Casual Wording Example 2

• "Join us for our wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Smart Casual. Feel free to dress in your favorite smart attire – a perfect blend of comfort and style."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and approachable, inviting guests to dress in their best smart casual attire for the celebration.

Smart Casual Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for a day of joy and celebration. Dress Code: Smart Casual. Dress comfortably yet stylishly – we can’t wait to see you!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear guidance on the expected attire, emphasizing both comfort and style for a relaxed yet polished look.

Beach Wedding

For a wedding by the sea, beach attire perfectly complements the relaxed and picturesque setting. This dress code invites guests to dress comfortably while embracing the beach vibe. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the beach wedding dress code:

Beach Wedding Wording Example 1

• "Join us by the sea for our wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Beach Formal. Light, airy attire is encouraged – think sundresses and linen suits. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!"
• Explanation: This example sets a relaxed yet elegant tone, encouraging guests to dress in light and airy clothing suitable for the beach setting.

Beach Wedding Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate our beach wedding with you! Dress Code: Beach Chic. Comfortable and stylish beachwear is perfect – let’s make this a beautiful and breezy celebration."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and inviting, suggesting comfortable yet stylish attire that fits the beach theme.

Beach Wedding Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for a seaside celebration as we say ‘I do’. Dress Code: Beach Attire. Think flowy dresses and lightweight suits – we can’t wait to see you by the shore!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear guidance on the expected attire, emphasizing comfort and style suitable for a beach wedding.

Garden Party

A garden party wedding is all about elegance and natural beauty. This dress code invites guests to dress stylishly while embracing the outdoor, garden setting. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the garden party dress code:

Garden Party Wording Example 1

• "Join us for a beautiful garden wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Garden Party Attire. Light and floral outfits are perfect – we look forward to celebrating with you in the midst of nature."
• Explanation: This example sets a light and elegant tone, encouraging guests to dress in outfits that complement the garden setting.

Garden Party Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate our wedding in the garden! Dress Code: Garden Party. Think floral dresses and dressy casual suits – let’s make this a charming and stylish event."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and inviting, suggesting attire that fits the charming garden theme.

Garden Party Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for our garden wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Garden Party Attire. Flowy dresses and smart suits are ideal – we can’t wait to see you in your stylish garden outfits!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear guidance on the expected attire, emphasizing stylish and comfortable clothing suitable for a garden party.

Rustic/Barn Wedding

A rustic or barn wedding combines charm and elegance with a relaxed, country feel. This dress code invites guests to dress stylishly yet comfortably, fitting the rustic theme. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the rustic/barn wedding dress code:

Rustic/Barn Wedding Wording Example 1

• "Join us for a charming barn wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Rustic Chic. Comfortable and stylish attire is encouraged – think sundresses and dressy boots. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!"
• Explanation: This example sets a relaxed yet stylish tone, encouraging guests to dress in outfits that blend comfort with rustic elegance.

Rustic/Barn Wedding Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate our wedding in a beautiful rustic setting! Dress Code: Rustic Chic. Casual suits and flowy dresses are perfect – let’s make this a warm and charming event."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and inviting, suggesting attire that fits the rustic charm theme.

Rustic/Barn Wedding Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for our barn wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Rustic Chic. Smart casual attire with a touch of country is ideal – we can’t wait to see you in your stylish rustic outfits!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear guidance on the expected attire, emphasizing stylish yet comfortable clothing suitable for a barn wedding.

Vintage

A vintage-themed wedding brings timeless elegance and nostalgic charm. This dress code invites guests to embrace classic styles and dress as if they’ve stepped out of a bygone era. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the vintage dress code:

Vintage Wording Example 1

• "Join us for a timeless celebration on [Date]. Dress Code: Vintage Attire. Think classic elegance – flapper dresses, suspenders, and bow ties. We can’t wait to see your vintage-inspired outfits!"
• Explanation: This example sets a nostalgic and elegant tone, encouraging guests to dress in classic vintage styles.

Vintage Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate our wedding with a vintage flair! Dress Code: Vintage. Embrace the charm of yesteryears with retro dresses and suits. Let’s make this a day of timeless beauty."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and inviting, suggesting attire that fits the vintage theme with a touch of nostalgia.

Vintage Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for our vintage-themed wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: Vintage Attire. Step back in time with classic dresses and dapper suits – we can’t wait to see your stylish retro looks!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear guidance on the expected attire, emphasizing the timeless and elegant style suitable for a vintage wedding.

Browse Wedding Stamp with Dates

Cultural/Traditional

A cultural or traditional wedding honors heritage and customs, making the celebration deeply meaningful and unique. This dress code invites guests to embrace cultural attire, adding richness and diversity to the event. Here are some warm and inviting ways to let your guests know about the cultural/traditional dress code:

Cultural/Traditional Wording Example 1

• "Join us for a celebration of love and heritage on [Date]. Dress Code: Traditional Indian Attire. We invite you to wear sarees, lehengas, sherwanis, or other traditional Indian clothing. We can't wait to see your beautiful cultural outfits!"
• Explanation: This example warmly invites guests to dress in traditional Indian attire, emphasizing the celebration of Indian heritage and customs.

Cultural/Traditional Wording Example 2

• "We’re excited to celebrate our wedding with a blend of traditions! Dress Code: Japanese Cultural Dress Welcomed. Please wear kimonos or other traditional Japanese attire. Let's make this a vibrant and meaningful celebration together."
• Explanation: This example is friendly and inviting, encouraging guests to honor Japanese cultural traditions with their attire, adding to the vibrant and meaningful atmosphere.

Cultural/Traditional Wording Example 3

• "Please join us for our traditional African wedding on [Date]. Dress Code: African Heritage Attire. Embrace the beauty of traditional African clothing such as dashikis, kaftans, or kente cloth. We look forward to celebrating with you in your stunning cultural outfits!"
• Explanation: This example offers clear guidance on the expected attire, highlighting the beauty and significance of traditional African clothing for the celebration.