It’s not easy to discern the dress code for formal events such as corporate conferences, holiday parties, business meetings, bridal showers, graduations, and weddings. Worrying about what to wear to a social function is a common dilemma for women. Some people may have a natural talent for fashion but with the appropriate guidance, everyone can look their best.
The way you dress for any function will be determined by factors such as the weather, location, and level of formality. Basically, each occasion dictates how one should dress. Standard dress codes are in place so that people can feel comfortable in their appearance and show proper respect for the event and the others attending it.Â
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With that said, let’s look at what you should wear on different occasions:
- Religious Events
Conservative and modest wear is the dress code for religious events. What you wear should adhere to and reflect the dress code of the religion. Being too casual or over-trendy may make you look out of place. So, unless specified, putting on a simple daytime floral dress or a suit complimented by feminine accents and underpinnings will be perfect for such occasions. You can also wear breathable material like linen and cotton or try Lace which is timelessly elegant no matter the season.
Short, low-cut, or clingy attires are a no-no. If you’re wearing anything sleeveless, bring a jacket, light sweater, or blazer to cover up.
- Black Tie Events
Black-tie events are the fanciest, most sophisticated events next to white tie. These events include anniversaries, milestone birthdays, famous galas, and award ceremonies. Dressing for these events can be complicated, especially if you just received your first invite. Black tie event dressing can be translated into detailed dramatic and elegant evening wear. Sleek and glamorous full or knee-length gowns with deep necklines accentuated by high-end sparkly jewelry are the order of the day. Notably, it would be best if you paired it with glittering heeled open-toed shoes and a sleek, yet soft, hairstyle.
- Cocktail
The cocktail dress code is dressy casual. Cocktail attire should be appropriate but also fun. Polished but not too revealing. If the hemline of your dress is higher than your fingertips when you stand with your hands at your side, it isn’t appropriate. You can elevate your look by adorning jewelry that conveys class.
The little black dress easily fits this category, but you can opt for tailored pants or a skirt suit paired with a pretty blouse, necklace, and heels. Stay away from fabrics like jersey, denim, or chino. The cocktail attire is recommended for semi-formal events, such as art exhibitions or product launches.
- Holiday Or Festive Events
These occasions allow you to go overboard on color and glitz. Essentially, anything goes as long as it’s in tune with the event and venue. Jewels, sequins, and shimmering fabrics in festive colors like gold, green and red will complement the festive mood. Just remember to keep it chic and decent.
For festive company events, dress within your company’s guidelines. Otherwise, stay safe with a bright dress. Accessorizing with dangling earrings, brooches, and necklaces won’t do any harm.
- Weddings
Dressing to the nines is a must for weddings. As a rule of thumb, steer clear of donning a white dress at a wedding because it’s specially reserved for the woman of the hour. Typically, the wedding invitation’s dress code will dictate what to wear to a wedding. But if there are no special requirements, a formal-themed wedding will call for floor-length gowns and A-line dresses.
Dresses in floral prints, maxi lengths, or the trendiest shift styles are perfect for outdoor summer weddings. Wearing shades that complement the wedding’s theme or the natural surroundings will be preferable. Strapless and open-toed shoes are suitable for the occasion. Lastly, accessorize in line with the event’s mood.
- Funerals Or Wake
The appropriate attire for a funeral or wake is somber rather than flashy. It should be respectful, neat, and modest. Black is usually the norm though not mandatory. The somber mood should be matched with toned-down clothing, preferably in dark neutrals of brown, grey, or forest green. Discrete patterns also get the nod of approval. Shiny jewellery can appear disrespectful, but a simple or minimalist choice is acceptable.
Bottom line
You may be tempted to decline social invitations for lack of a suitable outfit. Dressing for an occasion doesn’t have to be intimidating. You can easily dress for any event when you know the rules. If you receive an invite and aren’t sure what the dress code is, it’s always wise to call the host to get clarification. Keep in mind that it’s customary for daytime gatherings to be casual, whereas evening parties are typically more formal.
