Everybody’s received an invitation and been baffled about what the dress code means.
That’s why I thought it was time to put an end to the doubts and fears we experience when getting ready for events with a dress-code and I’ve created a little cheat sheet with all 4 dress codes there are with easy explanations on what you are expected to wear in what case.
1. Black Tie
Other Versions: White Tie, Formal Black Tie, Creative Black Tie (usually involves a theme)
Men should dress in a smart suit or tuxedo, with an ironed, tucked in shirt and tie. Women get a bit more freedom, having the choice between long or cocktail dresses, in a wide range of colors.
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It’s a good idea to stick with the classics, black and white, and accessorize with bright red jewelry. This dress code does allow you to make a statement, but if you’re too crazy you might be denied entry.
2. Informal
Other Versions: Cocktail Attire, Semi Formal or Black Tie Optional
For men, this means black trousers, and a shirt. However, you don’t need to look as smart as above, and you don’t need to wear a tie or jacket if you don’t want too.
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Women can wear short dresses, but check that it is an appropriate length, and killer heels. Again, aim for classic colors like red and green and add statement jewelry and big cocktail rings for a show stopping look..
Let your personality shine!
Tomorrow is my Birthday so im locking for tips.
I’m sticking with informal – party dresses!
I’ve been trying to find some good two sentence definitions for my female clients to describe what white tie, black tie, morning suit, and informal dress codes specifically mean for women.
Most of the definitions I can find explain well what men should wear, but there is very little guidance that I can find for women.
Could you, please, help me with this?
Kati – great post. you’re so right on with these!
Also, are those dress codes the same throughout different countries? I have noticed that for VIP events, even if it is announced as “resort casual”, people want to be able to dress up a little more if the event is labeled a “cocktail party”.
Also, in business it seems the traditional suit attire is more common in Europe than in the USA, or it also depends on the field (someone in finance will always wear a suit; a prominent business man working in real estate or golf may be completely appropriate with a sport coat and golf shirt…
I guess for us ladies, we can never go wrong with a black skirt!?