Guest attire request

I would wonder if you meant totally black or just mostly black outfits. That point might help some others who can give a tailored response. Of course the issue with many people will be that they don't want to have to buy all black clothes or what if someone has dark gray?

Totally black outfits 🙂

Unfortunately I don't think there's really a nice way to tell guests what color to wear. I also can't see guests wanting to go out and buy black if they don't already have it. The best thing you can do would be say something along the lines of we'd love it if you could please wear black to the wedding. But I would go into this knowing some may just completely disregard your request.

View Quoted Comment I agree with this. You can request a dress code (casual, semi formal/cocktail, black tie) but you can not dictate specific colors.

If you know your guests would be fully fine, it would be possible to make this request. But is this just so pictures with the wedding party are with people wearing black or is this for another purpose? And what happens if people are there without all black?

Someone else recently asked this on the forum. Personally I think asking for a specific color is overstepping a bit, but if you absolutely want to write this, keep in mind it should be a *request* not a requirement, and keep expectations low as far as the follow-through percentage.


I’d highly recommend looking to bring your color vision to life using decor and your wedding party’s outfits (if you have one).

You can ask, but don't get your hopes up on people listening. Guests will likely disregard the request/ just do whatever they want. You'll also probably have some who wear something with black in it but won't be totally black.

I think it's fine to dictate guest attire color as long as you are also offering to buy everyone's clothes. I wouldn't put it in the invitation though, but rather just reach out to everyone individually to explain how you want them to look and how much you are willing to spend for their shopping trip.

I don’t think hosting an event gives you control over what colours people choose to wear. You’re kind of using your guests as props, and I’m not sure how you would word that politely on an invitation.