Receiving an invitation that specifies a dress code you don’t understand need no longer be a fear-inducing nightmare. Regulate your breathing and follow these easy to understand definitions for decoding dress codes.
Whether we like it or not, first impressions are important. Before we can impress people with our wit and conversation skills, we are judged on how we look and how we present ourselves. So avoid social blunders and make a great first impression by adhering to these dress code definitions.
White Tie
This is as fancy as it gets, and depending on the kind of life you lead, it may be the only chance you ever get to go all-out. A formal floor-length gown is a must – no cocktail dresses allowed! Don’t forget to load up on all those pearl and diamond accessories you’ve got lying around.
Black Tie
A long dress is welcome, but not required. A cocktail dress, or dressy evening suit is just as acceptable. Bold colours and great jewelry are encouraged.
Creative Black Tie
A slightly ambiguous term, it leaves room for a trendy interpretation of black tie. If you’re a little unsure of what’s appropriate, it’s better to err on the side of formality.
Cocktail/Semi-formal
Have fun being a girl! A short dress (anything above calf-length will do) and killer heels are perfect for this dress code. If it’s during the day a nice pantsuit is acceptable, but at night it will be too casual. Feel free to add a little shimmer, and let people know you put some effort into it. If you’re a fan of the little black dress, now’s the time to show it off.
Urban Chic
A relatively new term, this one is professional glam. Stick with the pencil skirt and fitted jacket, but add flashy heels and a take-notice handbag.
Informal
It really calls for the same dress as semi-formal. A short dress is probably the most appropriate, but hide the cleavage and leave the sparkles at home.
Smart Casual/Business Casual
Pants and trousers are acceptable, but jeans are not. Trendy, fun tops are an option, but t-shirts and cleavage–baring tops are most certainly not. If you’re unsure, go for a collared shirt and tailored slacks or skirt.
Casual
Almost anything goes. But please don’t forget to use common sense. It’s never okay to wear sweat pants, skimpy outfits or ripped clothes. Try to add your own personal stamp on it so you don’t look life everyone else.
Regardless of the event, in both business and social environments it’s always important to look pulled-together and polished. Never lose sight of the fact that you are promoting yourself. You want people to know that the effort you put into yourself is the same effort you put into your work and your relationships.
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