Let’s Decode the Dress Code (For Social & Special Events)

Dress codes can often be a tricky topic. One, many of them are ambiguous, two, there are many things to consider about an event when choosing the proper thing to wear within a certain dress code, three, dress codes can be interpreted differently depending on geographical location, and four, there is SO much conflicting information all over the internet. My hope is that the information below will act as a guide and resource for you as you navigate upcoming events whether it be determining a dress code as a host, or figuring out what to wear as the guest.

1. Cocktail Attire
   Although it can be ambiguous, think of cocktail attire as your time to shine when it comes to color, prints, accessories, etc. Proper cocktail attire would consist of a mid-length dress, formal jumpsuit, or trousers with  a formal blouse, OR a suit with a tie. Depending on the type of event and formality of the venue, some may opt out of wearing a tie and choose a festive pocket square instead.

2. Semi Formal Attire
   Another ambiguous one, and certainly overlaps with cocktail attire. Semi formal attire will almost be the same as cocktail, but perhaps slightly less about the “glitz and glam.” A Semi Formal dress code would consist of mid-length dress, jumpsuit, or trousers with a formal blouse, OR a suit with a tie. Depending on the type of event and formality of the venue, some may opt out of wearing a tie.

3. Formal Attire
   Think of formal as being as fancy as you can get, without being in full black-tie. Perhaps we should call this one ambiguous, too? Now I just sound like a broken record! If you are asked to dress in formal attire, this would be a dressier mid or tea-length dress OR a suit with a tie. This is where more reserved prints and accessories would be most appropriate.

4. Black-Tie Attire
   Finally! A dress code that is straightforward! ...Unless, of course, the dress code states “Black-Tie Optional” which suggests you can dress in black-tie, but it is not required. Remember, if you choose not to dress in black-tie, your outfit should be suitable to stand next to people who are dressed in black-tie. Black-tie attire means floor length gowns (they do not have to be black) OR tuxedos with a hand-tied black bow tie. Historically, if food was being served at a black-tie affair, a woman’s shoulders would be covered for the meal. This “rule” is not as commonly observed today.

5. White-Tie Attire
   Certainly the least commonly seen dress code of the bunch, but the most formal of them all. White-Tie attire consists of a formal ball gown and optional white gloves OR a black jacket with tails and matching pants with a hand-tied white bow tie.

Tip: If you are having trouble deciding what to wear within a certain dress code, consider… 

WHO: Who will be at this event? Do you need to make an excellent first impression?

WHAT: What will you be doing? Does this event require you to be on your feet for a while or participate in a special activity?

WHEN: When is this event taking place? Is your outfit aligned with the season and time of day?

WHERE: Where is this event taking place? Does your outfit make sense based on the style and location of the venue?

WHY: Why are you going to the event? Does your outfit align with your goals and represent you well?

Photo Credits: NY Times (Truman Capote’s Black & White Ball)