Deciding on what to wear for a party can be a frustrating affair, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve recently received an invitation to a gathering and the dress code is confusing to you, we’ve got the solution. Here are a few of the most popular dress codes for parties and how to prepare for them accordingly.
White-Tie
White-tie events are the utmost formality and are reserved for high-tier societal events, such as diplomatic or even events involving royalty of some sort.
Women typically wear floor-length dresses and gowns to these high society soirees with the addition of elbow-length gloves and stunning pieces of jewelry on display. The typical colors expected at events like this for dresses are either black or white, nothing too norm-defying. Conservative-yet-elegant is the goal to keep in mind for these get-togethers.
Black-Tie
Black-tie parties are evening events that are all about formality, but not as much as white-tie parties. Clothing like dark long gowns is the standard for these events. In fact, black is usually the color of choice for these events, if the name didn’t tip you off already.
While men are usually expected to wear a tuxedo and nothing else, women have far more breathing room for these events. Tea-length dresses and even subdued cocktail dresses (not too short!) are perfectly acceptable. Just be sure whatever you wear matches the tone of the event and you’ll be fine.
Black-Tie Optional
Black-tie optional is the next tier down as far as formality for a black-tie event is concerned. It’s a little less restrictive when it comes to outfit creativity compared to a standard black-tie party.
Ostentatious dresses and gowns aren’t recommended here for the most part, but it depends on the event. If it’s more of a workplace-related gathering, you can’t go wrong with a formal gown. Otherwise, just keep it classy with below-the-knee dresses or a more subdued cocktail dress will work wonders for this particular dress code.
Creative Black-Tie
Forward-thinking yet still having room for elegance, creative black-tie parties are like typical black-tie events but with an added twist. Occasions like this are exciting because they allow you to show off luxurious formalwear while adding in one’s unique sense of style.
Individuality merged with formality is the name of the game here at these parties. Go daring here with a “little black dress” mixed up with a unique accessory, such as a color that pops with the main color you are wearing. Wearing a black dress? Don a bright yellow or pink necklace or purse for a slightly “cutting-edge” aesthetic.
Business Formal
Here’s where one’s style will leave an impact, for better or worse. In business formal situations, conservative is key when it comes to outward appearances.
For this party variant, think in terms of muted, non-distracting looks. There’s no room for experimentation here. Smart suits/pant suits with a long coat or blazer are crucial here. Smart dresses are acceptable as well.
Business Casual
Business casual can be a relatively vague term at times, but in general, it means to dress conservatively but in a loose and more comfortable manner. No blue jeans or t-shirts like you would wear around the house, but no elite-level businesswear either.
Keep these affairs simple with a knee-length skirt or khaki pants. Open-collar shirts or sweaters are a good fit here too. If you’re the type that prefers dresses, that’s fine here too, just nothing too fancy or distracting.
Cocktail or Semi-Formal
Semiformal would be defined as a tad bit more formal than what you would wear normally on your off days, but still not as elaborate as you would for a more formalized event.
In terms of a dress code, think of it as a transitory period between the more strict daytime hours at an office and the looser, more free-form styles of nighttime hours. Retirement parties and graduation ceremonies fit the bill for semi-formal.
For this type of party dress code, a restrained cocktail dress will do quite nicely. Just make sure it’s knee length at the very least. Remember, this is still a somewhat formal event; don’t go too crazy with pushing the limit.
Smart Casual
Smart casual just means a more relaxed and laid-back tone of dress. These are usually for professional gatherings and networking events that aren’t hyper-formalized.
Stunning dresses and floor-length gowns are too intense for situations like this, despite still being in the professional realm. Just go with a decent yet still low-key dress that isn’t too excessive in color or tone. Pumps or flats will add the extra “casual” aspect to smart casual and will truly strike a more informal yet professional look.
Casual
Casual is a pretty open-ended dress code for a party, but don’t think that it means you can wear just anything.
Sundresses, nice jeans, plain polo, and button-down shirts are all fantastic options here for a casual dress code.
Don’t wear things like sleepwear, or shirts with slogans on them just to be on the safe side. If the party is summertime or beach-focused, then shorts are fine, but obviously, use your best judgment here. For example, if you’re going to a co-worker’s house you’re going to want to be a bit more conservative in your look compared to your everyday leisure attire.
Cocktail Dresses for Every Occasion
Dress codes don’t have to be stressful or confusing, especially when you have the right look for the event. If you’ve been invited to a party or some other get-together and you’re out of options as far as fashion is concerned, we’ve got the solution.
For most events, you can’t go wrong with a sophisticated yet not-too-formal cocktail dress. Sherri Hill has a wide selection of cocktail dresses to choose from for all manner of occasions and personal styles. Contact us today to find your new go-to look for parties, formal events, and other important get-togethers in your life.