How to word the dress code for our wedding

Hi there. How do you describe/explain the different dress codes for weddings? So we can put the right one that our guests will understand on our wedding invites. Thank you!

Question Asked: 29/09/2022

Wedding Date: 9/08/2018

Most Helpful Response

Modus Operandi Sydney

(0) · Australia Wide

Posted: 11/03/2025

Great question! Choosing the right dress code wording for your wedding invitations is key to ensuring guests know exactly what to wear. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common wedding dress codes and how to word them on your invites:

Black Tie

A formal evening event. Men should wear a tuxedo with a black bow tie, while women should wear a full-length gown or an elegant formal dress.

How to word it:
"Black Tie – Tuxedos for men and formal floor-length gowns for women."

Formal / Black Tie Optional

A slightly more flexible version of Black Tie. Men can wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with a tie, and women can wear a long gown or an elegant cocktail dress.

How to word it:
"Formal Attire – Tuxedos or dark suits for men, formal gowns or cocktail dresses for women."

Cocktail Attire

A balance between formal and semi-formal. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women can opt for a knee-length or midi cocktail dress, jumpsuit, or chic separates.

How to word it:
"Cocktail Attire – Suit and tie for men, cocktail dresses or elegant separates for women."

Semi-Formal / Dressy Casual

Less structured but still polished. Men can wear a suit or blazer with dress trousers, while women can wear a midi dress, skirt, or dressy jumpsuit.

How to word it:
"Semi-Formal – Dressy attire that is polished yet relaxed. Suits or blazers for men, dresses or elegant separates for women."

Smart Casual

A step up from everyday wear but not overly dressy. Men can wear chinos or dress trousers with a collared shirt, and women can wear a dress, skirt, or stylish jumpsuit.

How to word it:
"Smart Casual – Dress stylishly but comfortably. No jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers."

If you’d like guidance on dressing your wedding party, we’d love to assist! Reach out at hello@modusoperandisydney.com.au, and we’ll help you put together the perfect look.

Answered by: 2 Experts

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Black Tie By Xavier

(45) · Australia Wide

Posted: 10/10/2022

HI

The dress code should be simple and easy to understand, i would suggest the following;

Black Tie (Tuxedo and Bow Tie)

Formal (Suit and Tie

In-Formal (Trousers/Chino and Shirt)

A simple explanation after the dress code helps the gents understand.

Hope this helps!

Regards

Black tie by Xavier

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