How To Put Dress Code On Invitation

Including a dress code on an invitation that works should be done in a clear and polite way that lets people know what to wear while still fitting with the Event’s theme. Here are some examples and tips on writing dress rules on cards in a way that makes them feel thoughtful and kind.

1. Pick The Dress Code Based On What The Event

Make sure the type of dress code fits the Event you’re having before you decide how to write it on the ticket. You might have to follow these types of dress codes:

Black Tie: Black tie means wearing something fancy, like a suit for men or an evening gown for women.
White Tie: The most formal attire, usually including a tailcoat for men and full-length formal gowns for women. White tie is the most serious dress code. Men usually wear tailcoats, and women wear full-length traditional gowns.
Semi-Formal or Cocktail Attire: Women should wear shorter dresses or dressy pieces for a semi-formal or cocktail event, and men should wear suits.
Casual or smart casual: A less strict way to dress, usually for daytime or outdoor events. Men should wear khakis or slacks and button-down shirts, and women should wear sundresses or casual skirts.
Styles Based on a Theme: For example, at a beach party, people should wear summer clothes, and at a 1920s-themed party, they should wear clothes from that time.

Once you know what to wear, you can move on to how to write it on the card.

2. Positioning The Dress Code On The Invitation

The dress code should be written to make it easy for guests to find on the notice without getting in the way of other important information like the time, date, and place. You can put it in any of these places:

Bottom Right or Left Corner: Dress code information is often found in the bottom right or left corner.
Printed on a separate sheet: Some letters come with an extra card or insert that can be used to give more information, like directions or room reservations. You can write the dress code here.
After the information for the RSVP: Putting it after the RSVP information makes sense to make sure it gets seen.

3. Clear And Polite Language For The Dress Code

It’s important to be clear about a dress rule without being too strict. You must ensure the message is clear without being too strict or scary.

Based on different dress rules, here are some ways to say it:

Black Tie:

“Formal attire requested”
“Black tie encouraged”
“Join us for an elegant evening – Black tie attire”

White Tie:

“White tie attire is appreciated”
“Formal dress: White tie”
“Dress to impress: White tie”

Semi-Formal or Cocktail Attire:

“Cocktail attire requested”
“Dress code: Semi-formal”
“Dress to party: Cocktail attire”

Casual or Smart Casual:

“Smart casual attire”
“Come as you are – Casual dress encouraged”
“Relaxed and comfortable attire requested”

Themed or Unique Dress Code:

“Festive Attire: Please join us in something bright and bold!”
“1920s Glam: Please dress to theme!”
“Beach party vibes: Casual summer attire”
“Rustic Chic: Dressy casual”

A gentle warning of the dress code can help guests feel good about what to wear without thinking they are too little dressed.

4. If You Think It’s Necessary, Add Some Explanation

If people don’t know or understand the dress code, a short description can help a lot. For instance, if you’re having a semi-formal event and want your guests to know what you mean by “cocktail attire,” you could leave them a simple note:

“Cocktail attire means dresses that fall at or above the knee for women and suits for men.”
“Semi-formal means a suit and tie for men and a party dress or dressy separates for women.”

For special events, a summary can help make sure everyone knows what to expect:

“Our 1920s theme means you’re invited to wear flapper dresses, pinstripes, or vintage-inspired outfits!”

5. Pay Attention To Your Audience

When setting a dress rule, consider how comfortable your guests will feel. It’s best to word the dress code to make people want to follow it without making it seem like too much of a hassle. As an example:

“Black tie is encouraged, but come dressed as you feel comfortable!”
“Formal attire requested, but feel free to join in whatever makes you feel best.”

This way of doing things lets people follow the dress code without feeling like they have to, making the space more friendly and open to everyone.

6. More Hints On How To Dress For Invitations

When you decide on a dress code, ensure it stays the same on all platforms. Ensure that the dress code message on the digital invites or social media posts fits the message on the paper invitation:

Make things clear: Use words like “festive” or “dressy casual” that aren’t clear enough without giving more information. Guests will enjoy clear instructions.
Hint at the dress code with your design: If your Event is serious, the way your invitations look and sound should match (elegant fonts, professional wording). If the dress code is casual, a laid-back, fun pattern can accompany it.

In Conclusion

Putting a dress code on an invitation is a simple but useful touch that helps set the mood for your Event. You can ensure everyone comes dressed correctly by putting the dress code in a clear and noticeable place on the letter, using polite language, and thinking about your guests’ comfort.

No matter what kind of Event it is (formal, relaxed, or special), ensuring everyone knows what to wear will help them feel comfortable and enjoy themselves.