Dress Codes ...Decoded:Matching style to event

This led me to think that it’s not only wedding invitations that make me ponder… it’s any kind of invitation. After all, these days, whether the function is as elaborate as a state dinner or as simple as a birthday lime, you can bet your lunch money that it’s going to include a generic directive as to what you should wear. With this in mind, I have decided to decode the dreaded dress codes.

Black Tie

This is the ultimate “dress up” affair. It is the Rolls Royce of apparel choice. The wording “Black Tie” or “Black Tie Required” means that the host insists that in the case of men, tuxedos should be worn; no exceptions. If one is invited to such an event, and does not have a tuxedo and opts not to go through the expense of renting or acquiring one, then regrets should be sent to the host. To simply show up in a suit will be considered a travesty. If however, the invitation is worded “Black Tie Optional”, it implies that while the host prefers that men wear tuxedos, showing up in a suit will be accepted. Suits, in this case should be dark, and must be worn with a formal (pleated front) white shirt, a conservative tie, black patent shoes and black dress socks. White dinner jackets are acceptable in climates such as ours.

Ladies, this is your chance to go all out. Pair a floor length evening gown with dressy, statement accessories; ensure your hair and make-up compliment your ensemble and you should fit right in.

Formal

For men, formal attire refers to your “black tie optional” alternative - dark suit; formal white shirt; and a conservative tie or bow tie. Leather shoes are acceptable, but should be worn with dark dress socks. Ladies are allowed more options than men with a “black tie” invitation. In addition to floor length evening gowns, dressy cocktail dresses of any length are allowed. While heels are customarily worn, there may be instances when one has no choice but to wear flats. If you are faced with this dilemma, choose footwear that incorporate a formal feature. A pair of sandals bedazzled with gemstones for instance, will inject the exact dosage of sophistication that a formal event demands. Metallic coloured ballet flats can have the same effect. Wedges or platform shoes should be avoided, since they can cheapen the look of an evening gown or cocktail dress.

Business Formal

As far as men are concerned, this category is quite similar to formal wear. Dark suits are required, accompanied by dress shirts, conservative ties and leather dress shoes. Business suits or conservative dresses paired with jackets are appropriate for ladies. High or low heeled shoes are permissible.

Elegantly Casual

This is perhaps the most prescribed dress code of all! An invitation that mandates elegantly casual wear simply means that the event is an informal one, but the host wishes to maintain a standard of elegance and class. Combining formal elements to your casual ensemble – a blazer or a pair of high heels for example, will allow you to pull off an elegantly casual look with style.

Semi-formal

This is probably the most confusing dress code of all. One can easily find themselves in a state of “over” or “under” dress. My advice is to keep the word “formal” in mind. As such, certain aspects of your formal attire should be infused in your semi-formal outfit. For men, suits are preferred, but lighter, cheerful colours can replace sombre ones. Another option would be to select a dark coloured sports blazer to compliment a lighter coloured pair of trousers. Complete this look with a patterned shirt. Ladies, you have the opportunity to shorten your dress length. Alternatively, selecting a printed dress will diminish the severity of a formal outfit. Pants suits, separates or jumpsuits are options for this category as well. Lastly, your choice of accessories can play an integral role in pulling off a semi-formal look. If your outfit leans toward the less formal end of the spectrum, choose dressy jewelry. On the other hand, you can “dress down” a formal outfit by opting for casual accessories.

Beach Formal

As an ode to the last two articles dedicated to wedding attire, I decided to include this category of dress code. Beach

weddings appeal to couples who want to celebrate their union in a casual atmosphere. With that said, the occasion is still a formal one, and as such, the dress code “beach formal” was conceptualised. When contemplating your attire for a beach wedding, one of the first rules of thumb is to consider the heat and humidity experienced at the beach. Light, breezy apparel should therefore be worn. Secondly, take the sand into account. Formal shoes are not at all practical at the beach and should be substituted for sophisticated flip flops, sandals or loafers. Aesthetically, light colours and patterns reflecting the nature and landscape of the venue contribute to the overall vibe and theme. Incorporating fun, whimsical accessories will tie this look together

Casual

As the name suggests, casual wear should be informal, easy going and laid-back. Combine comfort and style for a chic or dapper edge.

Business Casual

There are some industries that allow a more relaxed dress code than business formal. This is due in part to the physical environment and infrastructure, the duties and functions of the respective employees and to our climate and weather patterns. Business casual wear is geared towards these enterprises, and as such, let these factors influence your work wear decisions. The most significant guideline for this category of dress wear is to always maintain a degree of professionalism. As such, be mindful of incorporating too many casual elements in your outfit at the same time

I hope I’ve been able to crack the code where dress codes are concerned. In navigating the multiple dress categories of life, be sure to keep it stylish, classy and most importantly you. Look out for next week’s article, which will focus on graduation ball styles