Wedding Dress Code Wording: How to Guide Guests with Examples

Specifying your dress code prevents awkward situations where one guest shows up in a tuxedo and another in jeans. A clear description on your wedding website helps everyone feel confident and appropriately dressed.

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1. Black Tie

• Description: Formal floor-length evening gowns for women; black tuxedo, bow tie, and patent leather shoes for men.
• Website Wording Example:

> "Black Tie: We invite our guests to dress to the nines. Floor-length evening gowns, formal tuxedos, and black bow ties are required."

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2. Formal / Black Tie Optional

• Description: Floor-length gowns or fancy cocktail dresses for women; tuxedos or dark formal suits with ties for men.
• Website Wording Example:

> "Formal / Black Tie Optional: Tuxedos and floor-length gowns are welcome, as are dark formal suits and sophisticated cocktail dresses."

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3. Cocktail Attire (The Most Popular Choice)

• Description: Midi or knee-length dresses, dressy jumpsuits for women; suit jacket and trousers (tie optional) for men.
• Website Wording Example:

> "Cocktail Attire: Strike the perfect balance of elegance and fun! Cocktail dresses, dressy separates, and suits with or without ties."

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4. Garden Party / Semi-Formal

• Description: Floral dresses, pastel tones, and light suits (linen or light wool).
• Website Wording Example:

> "Garden Romantic: Colorful floral dresses, breezy fabrics, and light suits. Note: Our ceremony is outdoors on the lawn, so block heels or flats are encouraged."

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