Ever felt lost while trying to figure out what to wear to an event? The invitation says ‘smart casual’, but what does that actually mean? Or ask yourself, “What is cocktail attire?” Dress codes can leave you scratching your head in confusion. Not to worry, this guide will be your trusted companion, helping you decode dress codes for every event so you can step out in style and confidence.
The Importance of Dress Codes
Dress codes carry more significance than most people think. They create a uniform aesthetic at the event, are indicative of the formality level, and also show respect towards the host or the cause being celebrated. Failing to adhere to the specified dress code often leads to feeling out of place. Check out this handy style guide at chicchiffon to get an idea about different dress styles.
Understanding White Tie
‘White tie’ is arguably the highest standard of formal dress. Men are expected to don a black tailcoat, a white wing-collared shirt, a white bow tie and a white waistcoat. For women, full-length ball gowns are the norm; elegant jewelry like pearl necklaces or dazzling earrings can be paired with this outfit.
Navigating Black Tie
Black tie is slightly less formal than white tie, but still requires high standards in attire. Men are typically expected to wear a black tuxedo with matching bow tie. Women have a bit more flexibility here – long evening dresses or sophisticated cocktail dresses are suitable.
Demystifying Black Tie Optional
The phrase ‘black tie optional’ denotes that while tuxedos and formal gowns won’t look out of place, formal business attire will also be acceptable. For men an evening suit and for women a cocktail dress or long evening gown would work.
Getting Black Tie Creative
This relatively new dress code allows you to show off your personality while still adhering to the formality of the event. You can experiment with color: go for a midnight blue tuxedo or opt for a dress in jewel tones.
Business Formal Basics
Typically seen at office meetings, conferences or job interviews, business formal speaks professionalism. Men should opt for well-tailored suits while women can choose between sleek power suits or conservative dresses.
Tackling Cocktail Attire
Cocktail events have a relaxed yet chic vibe and your outfit should reflect that. Think dark suits paired with vibrant ties for men, and flirty knee-length dresses or stylish jumpsuits for women.
Smart Casual Simplified
The smart casual dress code lies pleasantly in-between casual and formal; there’s room for comfort without sacrificing style. Think blazers teamed with jeans for men and day-to-night dresses or classy separates for women.
Casual Chic Decoded
This ever-popular dress code gives you license to get creative with fashion. Elevated denim looks, tailored khakis, neat t-shirts, sundresses – inject personality into your look while remaining stylishly casual.
Casual Attire Explained
For events specifying casual attire, ease & comfort win the day; however, it does not mean showing up in gym clothes. Women can wear blouse-jeans combo or a comfortable midi-dress while men can don chinos with polo shirts.
Festive Dressing Fun
This dress code often pops up during holiday seasons, encouraging cheerful colors or patterns. You can embrace the theme of the festival and build your outfit around it with fun accessories or quirky footwear.
Beach Formal Breezy
Beach formal implies a balance between looking smart and dressing appropriately for hot weather and possibly sand. Light, breathable fabrics like linen are perfect. Women can look towards maxi dresses while men can consider linen suits.
Garden Party Glam
This dress code is typically ideal for outdoor events held in spring, hinting at floral prints, bright colors and breezy silhouettes such as flowy sundresses for women and semiformal summer suits for men.
To Wrap Things Up
Decoding dress codes need not be daunting – once you understand what each term broadly translates to in terms of outfits, there’s no longer a reason to stress out when planning an outfit for any event. Remember, your comfort is key – no matter what the dress code, always wear something that you feel comfortable in and that allows you to express your unique style.