Deciphering dress codes can be tricky. It always seems to be a fine line between getting the look ‘just right’ and appearing overdressed or underdressed. Luckily there’s a more relaxed attitude to fashion these days and people are less likely to wear over the top dressy outfits for a formal occasions. That said, there are also some instances where you should strictly stick to the dress code. Here is dress codes explained.
1. Smart Casual
Smart casual is probably one of the most stipulated dress codes around. Deciphering dress codes like this one is often open to interpretation. The key is to look put-together and polished. For women, pretty dresses and skirts are always a safe bet and if you want to wear jeans then try teaming them with something like a tailored blazer and heeled shoes. For men, a collared shirt is usually a good idea and you can get away with wearing lighter colours. Always lean more towards the ‘smart’ end of the scale than the ‘casual’.
2. Cocktail
Social events like parties and weddings often call for cocktail dress codes. For women, this means a glamorous dress, usually around knee length but these days you can get away with wearing a range of lengths. If dresses aren’t your thing you could even get away with wearing a chic tuxedo. Men can wear suits without a tie. There’s lots of room to move with cocktail dressing and it’s an opportunity to get dressed up without the restrictions usually associated with more formal dress codes.
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3. Lounge Suit
The lounge suit dress code is similar to cocktail dressing. The two dress codes are pretty interchangeable these days which can lead to confusion. If you were to stick to the lounge dress code then women should choose a glamorous, usually floor-length gown. You can play around with jewellery and accessories to create a truly stunning look. As for men, they should wear a suit with a tie.
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When attending an event with a lounge suit dress code, women should choose a glamorous, floor-length gown and accessorize with jewelry and other pieces to create a stunning look. Men should wear a suit with a tie. When deciding between a lounge suit and a cocktail dress code, the two are often interchangeable, but the lounge suit dress code typically requires more formal attire. Shoes should be dressy and appropriate to the event. Women can also add a shawl or wrap to their look if needed. Men should make sure their suit fits properly and is not too tight.
4. Formal or Black Tie Optional
The word ‘optional’ can throw a spanner in the works. But this dress code is simply a step up from lounge suit and less formal than black tie. For women an elegant floor-length gown should do the trick. Men should stick to dark coloured suits but a tuxedo wouldn’t seem out of place either.
5. Black Tie
Black tie events are formal affairs, and you should dress accordingly. This is one of those dress codes where it’s important to stick to the rules. Women should opt for a floor-length formal gown. Accessories can be a great way to add some personality to your outfit but avoid going too over the top. Men should wear a black tuxedo with a black bow tie and smart dress shoes.
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Black tie events are the most formal type of dress code. Women should dress in a floor-length formal gown, with accessories that do not go overboard. Men should wear a black tuxedo with a black bow tie and smart dress shoes. For both men and women, it is important to stick to the rules of the black tie dress code.
When attending a black tie event, it is important to wear the right dress and accessories. Women should select a dress that is floor-length and formal. Accessories should be kept to a minimum and should not draw too much attention away from the dress. Men should wear a black tuxedo with a black bow tie and dress shoes.
When dressing for a black tie event, it is important to keep in mind the level of formality. Women should select a formal dress that is appropriate for the event. Men should stick to the classic look of a black tuxedo and black bow tie. Both men and women should avoid wearing too much jewelry or accessories that are too loud or flashy.
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6. White Tie
White tie is the most formal dress codes of all. If you’re ever invited to a white tie event then be prepared for a dressy, glamorous affair. Women should wear floor-length formal gowns, complete with gloves. Hair should usually be worn up. Men should wear a three piece suit, with a tailcoat, and a white bow tie (hence where the ‘white tie’ dress code comes from.)
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White tie is the most formal dress code of all and is usually reserved for very special occasions, such as state dinners, formal balls, and royal events. Women should wear floor-length formal gowns, usually in a light color like ivory, champagne, or white. Hair should usually be worn up in an elegant updo, and gloves are usually added for an extra touch of sophistication. Men should wear a three-piece suit, with a tailcoat, and a white bow tie, hence the name ‘white tie’ dress code. The waistcoat should be white and the trousers should be black. A shirt should be white with a stiff wing collar and a white bow tie. Shoes should be black, patent leather, and highly polished.
When attending a white tie event, it is important to remember that the dress code is very strict and should be taken seriously. Women should avoid wearing too much jewelry, as it can be seen as gaudy. Men should also avoid wearing too much jewelry, as it is seen as too casual for a white tie event. It is also important to remember to keep the colors of the outfit muted and simple. Bright colors and loud prints should be avoided.
7. No Dress Code
If you’re invited to an event that doesn’t have a dress code it’s up to you to use your judgment to best decide what to wear. Check the type of event, time of day, and location to determine what outfit would best be suited to it. Informal dress codes like smart casual and cocktail dress are usually your best bet. If you’re still stumped, ask the host or other people who have been invited what to wear.
Dress codes are usually put in place for a reason. Although some dress codes, usually the informal ones, offer more leeway than others. Do you think it’s better to be overdressed or underdressed? What are your best tips for dressing for the occasion?
Comments
Flora: Where is the skirt from in the last picture .... It's so beautiful and classy!
Jenny: I would rather be over dressed for the occasion rather than under dressed. You can't go wrong with being best dressed!
Whitney: Hello??? The skirt, where's it from
Subita: Love the last skirt, anybody know where it's from?
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