Including a dress code on your wedding invitation can feel tricky. You want guests to arrive dressed appropriately for your celebration, but you do not want the wording to come across as demanding or stiff. The good news is that with thoughtful phrasing and design, your dress code can feel helpful to your wedding style.

At Julia Kay Design, I guide couples through every detail of their invitation suite so nothing feels awkward or stressful. Dress code wording is just one of many elements I help refine to ensure your invitations feel personal and effortless.

Why Including a Dress Code Is Actually a Courtesy

Many couples worry that listing a dress code may feel bossy, but in reality, it does the opposite. A clear dress code helps guests feel confident when choosing what to wear. It removes guesswork and ensures everyone understands the vibe of your wedding day. 

Whether you are hosting a formal black tie celebration or a relaxed outdoor garden ceremony, your guests will appreciate knowing what is expected. 

Where to Place the Dress Code on Your Invitation Suite

On the Main Invitation

For very formal weddings, placing the dress code at the bottom of the main invitation is traditional. A simple line like “Black Tie” or “Formal Attire” keeps it clean and understated.

On a Details Card

For most couples, the details card is the perfect place for dress code wording. It allows you to expand slightly without crowding the main invitation.

This is especially helpful if your dress code needs a bit of explanation, such as outdoor footwear suggestions or seasonal notes.

On Your Wedding Website

Your wedding website is a great place to add details without overwhelming the printed invitation. You can include examples, descriptions, or even a short sentence explaining the atmosphere of the day.

Ways to Word Your Dress Code

Keeping It Simple and Neutral

Sometimes less really is more!

Simple and neutral wording is ideal for couples who want their dress code to feel definitive rather than optional. These phrases clearly communicate what guests should wear without adding extra language or interpretation.

This approach works especially well for formal weddings, traditional venues, or couples who want consistency in guest attire.

Examples include:

• Black Tie

• Formal Attire

• Cocktail Attire

Use Soft, Inviting Language

Adding a gentle tone can instantly make your dress code feel more personal. If you like having a dress code but prefer it to feel less rigid, softened language offers direction while allowing guests a bit of flexibility. This option is great for couples who want to set expectations without feeling overly formal or strict.

Examples include:

• We kindly suggest cocktail attire

• Guests are invited to dress in formal attire

• We recommend garden party attire for our outdoor celebration

Describe the Vibe Instead of Giving Rules

Describing the vibe instead of listing a traditional dress code is perfect for couples who want guests to interpret the style in their own way. This option is especially popular for destination weddings, backyard celebrations, and outdoor events.

Examples include:

• Think elegant summer garden party

• A romantic evening celebration with formal attire

• Dressy casual attire for an outdoor celebration

Highly Detailed Attire Requests for Very Specific Wedding Styles

Highly detailed attire wording is best for couples who have a very specific vision and want their guests to clearly understand it. Rather than listing rules, the goal is to give guests enough information so they feel confident choosing something that fits into the day.

Examples include:

• Black tie attire. Tuxedos and formal gowns are encouraged for our evening celebration

• Formal garden attire. Long dresses, dressy jumpsuits, or suits in light, seasonal fabrics are welcome

• Elegant cocktail attire. Midi dresses, tailored suits, and elevated accessories suggested

Dress Code Tips for Outdoor and Seasonal Weddings

Consider Comfort and Practicality

If your wedding takes place outdoors, especially on grass, sand, or uneven terrain, a small note can be incredibly helpful.

Examples include:

• Outdoor ceremony on grass. We suggest block heels or flats.

• Evening temperatures may cool down. Light layers encouraged.

How Julia Kay Design Makes the Process Stress Free

One of the biggest benefits of working with Julia Kay Design is that you are never figuring these details out alone. I help you choose wording that feels natural and true to your wedding vision. Every invitation suite is thoughtfully designed so the layout and wording work together.

I make the process simple, collaborative, and even fun. You can feel confident knowing your guests will feel informed and excited from the moment they receive your invitation.