William Vintage Invitation and Envelope

We produced these bespoke dinner invitations for William Vintage’s Annual showcase in 2016, using luxurious, gold engravings on a pristine white stock. Completing the invites were the custom made envelopes engraved with gold ‘WV’ monogram and lined with gold metallic paper.

The Client 

This client, a curator of sought after vintage fashion, wanted to create a timelessly elegant invitation for an exclusive dinner hosted in partnership with American Express. Known for sourcing and selling exquisite pieces, such as the timeless little black dress made famous by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's, their brand was synonymous with elegance, nostalgia and exclusivity. Inspired by the golden age of couture, the design balanced vintage refinement with maximum impact, setting the perfect tone for the evening. 

The Brief 

Inspired by the golden age of couture, this invitation design balanced vintage refinement and elegance, setting the tone for the perfect evening. The invitation needed to reflect the brand’s essence: classic, understated and evocative of fashion’s most iconic eras. We used a single, traditional print process to ensure there wasn’t too much embellishment, as this would have felt disconnected from their ethos. The final design featured an image of one of their signature little black dresses on the back of the invitation, subtly reinforcing a dedication to vintage elegance. 

The Process

We worked with an exceptionally thick, 1250gsm white card stock, far beyond the typical 700-800gsm, to deliver weight, substance and presence. The text was engraved in rich gold ink, a process chosen over foil for its depth and warmth. At the same time, embossing added a three-dimensional quality, elevating the lettering with a raised, tactile effect. 

For the finishing touches, the edges were trimmed with gold, catching the light beautifully. The envelopes, lined with gold tissue and paper were monogrammed with an engraved crest, reinforcing the invitation’s sense of exclusivity and craftsmanship. This monogram, subtly embossed in gold ink, elevated the entire presentation, ensuring that the invitation felt as precious as the event itself.

Create embossed invitations with Downey

At Downey, we specialise in crafting vintage invitations that tell a story. Whether you’re looking for monogrammed stationery, engraved details or beautifully embossed designs, our expert team can bring your vision to life. Contact us to find out more about Downey’s expertise.