Fun Formal!

[Independent Gal]

We want to put on the invitation that the dress code is 'Fun Formal'. What we mean by that is that we'd like people to get dressed up, but to have a little fun with it. Keep it elegant, but with panache. You know, tuxedo + orange bow tie. Flamboyant hat? Disco shoes? We know that not everyone will want to, ahem, express themselves like that, but knowing our friends and family, about half will just love it.

So, my question is, what are some creative ways to let people know that it's ok just to put on the formal suit with black socks, but that red polk-dot platforms or anything with feathers are also A-OK? If you got an invite that said 'Fun Formal' would you be all 'HUH?!? HELP!'

 

[luckystar112]

I would probably be like, "huh"?

Maybe you could put "funky formal" or something? Although that would make me say "huh" too.
Do you have a wedding website? You could probably elaborate more on there... something like, "We realize that a wedding is a formal affair, but we don''t shy away from clown shoes or spinning bowties, and you shouldn''t either!"

 

[luckystar112]

formal with funk?

formal with flare?

edgy formal?

Eh.....I dunno!

 

[Independent Gal]

I like ''formal with flare!'' We don''t really want spinning bow ties.

 

[Hudson_Hawk]

Formal with flair is great. Classy and appropriate.

What a unique idea!

 

[zoebartlett]

I like "formal with flair." What a great idea!! Indy, I can''t wait to see if you post pics of your wedding!

 

[Jas12]

formal with flair might be a bit more specific..then, in addition to that i would spread the word/examples to close friends and relatives so they get an idea.

It kinda reminds me of the ''costumes optional'' part of a halloween party--if people are not sure what to expect from others they play it safe and either a) don''t wear a costume or b) wear regular clothing but pack some butterfly wings or devil horns in their purse so they fit in either way.
When people know what to expect they are more likely to run with it

Is there an opportunity (like a save the date or email) where you could include a fun picture like (for ex.) a shot of a man''s leg/foot in formal attire with pokadot/striped socks peeping through ??

I think it is a great idea and if your guests are into that it''ll make for some cute pics!!

 

[Independent Gal]

I think we''ll probably send out some information e-mails with, e.g., hotels and activities and things, so including pictures of what we mean by ''formal with flair'' would be a great idea to go along with that.

We don''t want anyone to feel awkward, but we also want to provide that opportunity to wear that fabulous but slightly eccentric vintage number that''s been sitting in the back of the closet.

 

[princesss]

I adore "Formal with Flair" - it''s much more precise, and especially with examples is likely to make for a really fun wedding.

 

[luckystar112]

Yay me for having a good idea for once!!!!

But what?!?! No spinning bowties?!?!

Okay, it was a drastic example. lol

 

[Harleigh]

I can''t WAIT to see the pictures of your guests in their "funky" and "formal with flair" attire!

I would love to attend a wedding that is that much fun! Woohoo! Can I come?

 

[Trelala]

Hi Indy,

My husband''s company party invitations are issued with "creative black-tie." One guy showed up in a bright orange suit, a company joke.

While I''m not sure if you''re hosting a black-tie, I think formal with a flair gets your point across.

 

[monarch64]

Hmmm.. brainstorming..."black tie with a twist", "creative formal attire", "full funky regalia required", "BT frowned upon, tongue in cheek dress required", "Cumberbund Cuties Only", "Evening Gowns and Feather Boas Welcome", ...I''d expect a ton of phone calls/emails from guests regarding appropriate attire no matter what you choose to put on the invite! Fun thread, though, I had a good time brainstorming!

 

[nytemist]

I like "Funky Formal". If you know the style of the people coming, they will know what you mean.

I had it easy- when people asked what they should wear to ours, I said if you want to be dressed up go right ahead; if you want to wear bondage gear, that''s fine too. Or even little accessories (it was Halloween) Two my my BM''s had devil''s horns for the reception and the other wore her set a fairy wings. Another guest wore his leather pants and platform boots and his wife wore a spiderweb dress.