Top 10 Trendy Wedding Invitation For 2016 Weddings

Watercolor Florals: Soft Tones With Artistic Flair

Watercolor wedding invitations became a major favorite in 2016, thanks to their romantic, hand-painted look. These designs used soft pastel shades like blush, lavender, and sky blue to create dreamy backgrounds or floral frames that felt almost like pieces of art. Couples loved that each invitation could be customized with their own wedding colors, giving a personal touch to their stationery suite.

• Why it worked: The subtle gradients and organic brushstrokes added depth and charm.
• Where it fit best: Garden, beach, and spring weddings with airy, floral themes.
• Design tip: Use matching RSVP and detail cards with similar watercolor patterns to tie the theme together.

Metallic Foil Accents: Glamour In Every Detail

Metallic foil stamping took over wedding invitations in 2016, bringing a sense of elegance and shine to the table. Gold, rose gold, and silver foils were among the most popular choices, giving even simple designs a luxurious feel. Many couples chose bold color combinations—like black with gold or white with copper—for high-contrast, glamorous results.

• Why it stood out: Foil lettering shimmered under light, catching guests’ attention immediately.
• Perfect for: Black-tie events, glamorous evening weddings, and ballroom receptions.
• Styling idea: Pair foil accents with heavy cardstock or velvet envelopes for an upscale presentation.

Rustic Kraft Paper Designs: Earthy And Authentic

Rustic wedding invitations made a big impact in 2016, and kraft paper was the go-to material for this theme. Its natural brown tone, combined with lace, twine, or floral illustrations, created a charming handmade look. The texture alone gave off a warm, down-to-earth vibe that matched barn weddings, vineyard ceremonies, and outdoor receptions.

• Why couples loved it: It combined simplicity with authenticity, perfect for casual yet meaningful events.
• Eco-friendly bonus: Many designs used recycled materials without sacrificing style.
• Design idea: Add hand-drawn leaves or rustic fonts to complete the organic feel.

Laser-Cut Lace Invitations: Delicate And Dramatic

Laser-cut invitations brought elegance and craftsmanship to wedding stationery in 2016. These designs used precision cutting technology to mimic lace patterns, filigree, or intricate floral borders. The result was a delicate, high-end look that felt both romantic and unique.

• Why they were special: The cutout layers added texture and depth, making every invite feel like art.
• Best suited for: Classic, vintage, or fairytale-themed weddings.
• Presentation tip: Use metallic inserts or belly bands for an extra touch of luxury.

Geometric And Minimalist Layouts: Clean And Contemporary

Minimalist desig=ns were a refreshing contrast to floral-heavy themes, and 2016 saw a rise in geometric wedding invitations. These layouts focused on structure—crisp lines, simple fonts, and bold shapes like triangles or hexagons. The color palettes were usually neutral or monochrome, but a pop of metallic or color added modern flair.

• Why it trended: Clean layouts made the information stand out clearly while maintaining elegance.
• Ideal for: Modern city weddings, industrial venues, and contemporary couples.
• Design tip: Combine geometric shapes with minimalist typography for a sophisticated balance.

Passport And Boarding Pass Designs: Destination Vibes

Destination weddings came with one of the most creative invitation trends of 2016—passport and boarding pass designs. These invitations doubled as functional keepsakes, often including maps, itinerary details, and travel tips.

• Why couples chose it: It turned the invitation into part of the travel experience, building excitement for guests.
• Design ideas: Use tropical colors for beach weddings or vintage passport stamps for European themes.
• Bonus feature: Envelope liners printed with skylines or travel routes made the set even more personal.

Acrylic Invitations: Sleek And Sophisticated Statements

Acrylic wedding invitations made a bold statement in 2016. Printed on clear or frosted plastic sheets, they offered a clean, modern aesthetic unlike traditional paper invites. Their durability and elegance made them a favorite for couples who wanted something different.

• Why it stood out: The see-through design felt upscale and stylish, creating an unforgettable first impression.
• Perfect for: Modern, luxury, or winter weddings.
• Styling idea: Pair with metallic or velvet envelopes to enhance the polished look.

Vintage Typography And Illustrations: Nostalgic Nuance

Vintage-inspired invitations made a comeback, offering a nostalgic charm for couples who loved old-school style. Using retro fonts, ornate frames, and artistic illustrations, these invitations felt like a nod to earlier decades.

• Why they appealed: They added character and personality, especially for themed weddings.
• Popular themes: Gatsby-style celebrations, rustic vintage receptions, and art deco soirées.
• Design tip: Combine serif fonts with embossed or letterpress printing to enhance the nostalgic effect.

Handwritten And Calligraphy Fonts: Personalized And Elegant

Handwritten fonts were one of the most romantic invitation trends of 2016. Couples either hired professional calligraphers or used digital calligraphy-style fonts to create an intimate, custom feel. The flowing, graceful lettering instantly elevated the design, making it feel personal and heartfelt.

• Why it worked: Calligraphy added elegance and individuality to any style—from classic to boho.
• Popular pairing: Soft watercolor backgrounds, minimalist layouts, or foil details.
• Extra touch: Matching calligraphy on envelopes tied the whole suite together beautifully.

Eco-Friendly Recycled Paper: Green And Gorgeous

Sustainability became a major wedding focus in 2016, and eco-friendly invitations reflected that shift. Using recycled or plantable seed paper, couples found creative ways to keep their invites stylish while minimizing environmental impact.

• Why it mattered: It allowed couples to express their eco-conscious values without compromising on beauty.
• Best for: Outdoor, garden, and nature-themed weddings.
• Design ideas: Add pressed flowers, botanical prints, or earthy tones for a soft, natural look.

Conclusion

The wedding invitation trends of 2016 proved that design could be both stylish and meaningful. Each trend offered something distinct—whether it was the elegance of metallic foil, the simplicity of geometric layouts, or the authenticity of kraft paper. Couples found more ways than ever to express their personalities through their invitations, turning them into memorable keepsakes rather than just paper announcements.

Key Takeaway: Wedding invitations in 2016 showed that small design choices could make a big impact. From the materials to the fonts, every element worked together to tell a love story long before the big day arrived.

FAQs

What’s the best way to store delicate wedding invitations like laser-cut or acrylic designs?

Store them in protective sleeves or boxes to prevent bending or scratching. Keep acrylic invites in a cool, dry place to avoid damage.

Can kraft paper invitations include colorful details?

Yes, kraft paper can be printed with bright ink or accented with ribbons and floral patterns to balance its rustic tone.

Do acrylic invitations require extra postage?

They do. Acrylic invitations are heavier and thicker than standard paper, so couples should check mailing costs at the post office before sending.

Are there eco-friendly invitations that still look luxurious?

Absolutely. Many eco-friendly printers use recycled paper paired with metallic ink or foil options that maintain a high-end look.

How can couples use calligraphy without hiring a professional?

Digital fonts that mimic real calligraphy are widely available and can be used in templates or custom designs for a handwritten feel.