There’s never any telling what an invite might ask of you regarding dress code. Sometimes it can be quite puzzling to figure out what the host has in mind and what you’re supposed to wear. There’s nothing more embarrassing than being the receiver of everyone’s side looks for dressing all kinds of wrong. There’s honestly no need for that kind of attention, the only attention worth getting is the one that turns heads in envy. And so for your next invite…
Casual
Casual is sort of the default “dress code” as there’s technically no hard and fast rules here save to say that one does always need to look well presented and put together. It’s a generally relaxed and comfortable dress code, a good example of which would be a pair of jeans; they can be dressed up or down but should still remain presentable. It goes without saying that casual does not include gym clothes, flip flops, ripped clothing, sweatpants and any other comfy item you would throw on while binging on your favourite series…
Casual items include shorts, a plain t-shirt, polo shirt, turtleneck, plainshirt or blouse, simple dresses and skirts. Heels or flats both work in this case.
Smart casual
Smart casual is more elevated and put together than just casual- it’s dressed up and can be thought of as a balance between formal and casual i.e. a pair of jeans or slacks with a plain t-shirt or a beautiful blouse for a more polished look.
A blazer and a stylish pair of heels (or flats for a more comfortable look) are what this dress code calls for. A dress or skirt are also suitable options. For an elegant smart casual look opt for a well fitted dress in neutral monochrome, a pair of jeans or slacks (mom jeans, straight cut, carrot shape… depending on what suits your body shape), pair it with the same colour blazer and heels to finish off the look (FYI you can never go wrong with classic black or white)
Men; well fitted jeans or slacks, a plain t-shirt, polo shirt, turtleneck, button-down shirt and/or sweater, blazer, loafers or sneakers (with or without socks)
Cocktail dress code
Cocktail attire is standard for parties; its sparkly, fun and playful and calls for a polished at or above-the-knee dresses and high heels. Although this dress code is playful remember to keep things classy and not too revealing. Think sequins and embellishments, lovely colours or just plain black is always timeless.
Men: suit, tie is optional.
Black tie
Black tie is the pit stop before the mother of all dress codes. Expect an elegant glitzy event filled with handsome looking men clad in tuxedos and feminine women floating around in floor-length sophisticated yet simple gowns. Most common for weddings, formal dinners, and theatre.
Women: traditionally a floor-length evening dress with elegant jewellery is worn. More recently and also acceptable is a beautiful and sophisticated formal dress in a luxurious fabric with fine details, even though not floor-length (mid-length).
Men: Black (or midnight blue) tuxedo jacket and matching trousers, formal (pleated front or piqué) white shirt, shirt studs and cuff links, black bow tie, black cummerbund, waistcoat or vest, black formal patent shoes and black socks
White tie dress code
White tie is the top tier and mother of all dress codes. This means you need to pull out all the stops and dress to the nines because you my lady, have just been invited to one glamorous occasion where the guests are high-caliber, have high social standing or even royalty i.e. balls, gala dinners
The essentials; a full-length ball gown with hair neatly worn and in place, or typically in an up-do. And if you want to go all in don a pair of long gloves, Cinderella you!
Men: black tailcoat and trousers, white shirt with stiff front, white waistcoat that covers the top of your trousers, white bow tie (never any other colour), black patent leather shoes and black socks.
In my opinion, no matter the dress code or occasion, one should always endeavour to dress well and be well presented, to honour the host and also as a form of respect for yourself. Additionally you’ll never know who you may meet on any given day…
Remember; good manners and good wine are timeless. Cheers to a life well-lived,
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