Business Casual? Black Tie? Cocktail? Your Guide to Dressing for the Occasion

Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed with the ensuing social anxiety of showing up to an event overdressed or underdressed? While we can all appreciate a moment of eye-catching, unconventional glamour, it doesn’t always fit the occasion. Unfortunately, wedding invitations and company emails do not give the best advice on how to dress appropriately. Well, look no further. Here is  a list of six of the most common (and most ambiguous) dress codes and what type of pieces will ensure you look both stylish and properly suited.

Black Tie 

Black tie dress codes are often applied to evening (after 6pm) events and weddings. While not quite at the level of White Tie attire, this dress code constitutes formal evening attire. For women, full-length gowns that cover the ankles or formal pantsuits are the usual go-to’s, paired with traditional heels and statement jewelry. Men’s tuxedos with all the extra pieces (vests/cummerbund, cufflinks, tie) are a must for black-tie events. However, certain venues may allow you to play with different color schemes and even allow a colored tie. Just because it’s “black tie” doesn't always mean you always have to wear black!

Formal vs. Semi-Formal

There are a few indicators, such as weather and the time of day, that may assit you when deciding on what to wear to a formal or semi-formal event. 

A formal dress code, also known as Black Tie Optional, is a step below Black Tie.  While there is not much flexibility and difference in women’s attire from Black Tie, you can get away with a dress that is above the ankles. Fancier cocktail dresses and pantsuits are also appropriate options when adorned with other formal separates. In comparison to the Black Tie’s tuxedo requirement, men can wear dark suits, complete with a white-collared shirt and long tie. In general, the more formal an occasion is, the less creative liberty you may have in constructing your look; this notion is especially applicable to men’s fashion. 

Semi-formal: In a semi-formal dress code, the time of day plays a particular role in the colors and fabrics that are available. Evening events constitute darker, more traditional styles of dress; for daytime events, on the other hand, opt for lighter colors and fabrics. With this, men can personalize their looks while maintaining the usual dress shirt and slacks (with a tie being optional). Ladies: this could be the time to bring out that “little black dress”! However, be cautious of how short your dresses and skirts are for semi-formal events. Leaning towards the more conservative side, it’s safe to say a below-the-knee dress (not full length), blouse and skirt, or pantsuit are your safest bets. Swap out your traditional heels for more comfortable heels, wedges, or flats for these events. 

Cocktail

The cocktail dress code holds the middle ground between formal and semi-formal attire. This is one of the most popular dress codes for parties and evening functions. Dresses can range from knee length to above the knee. If dresses are not your thing, mixing and matching skirts or pants with fancier tops is both a chic and comfortable alternative. Colors and textures are the real keys to this dress code. Whether that be a bold shoe or an eye-catching clutch, accessories will allow you to elevate your look while staying within code. Depending on the event, this is a great time to play with different colors, textures, and silhouettes. Menswear, at the most basic level, will include a suit and tie. Adding in statement pieces, nevertheless, can really add character to an otherwise restrictive code.

Business Casual

Ah, business casual. One of the most confusing dress codes but also one of the most common. Although you may not be going into the office, remember that your attire should still fit an office setting. Business casual emphasizes a greater level of comfort in dress; for men, casual slacks, khakis, or chinos are all safe options. A button-down shirt is recommended, but this time you may ditch the tie. Women have a variety of options from dresses (watch the length!), work pants, skirts, blouses, and blazers. Through recent fashion trends, women’s fashion has evolved to include (what used to be considered) masculine silhouettes and pieces. Business casual events are the perfect time to rock the vest and jacket you’ve had saved in your closet! The discussion of jeans can be a real struggle for business casual; while it is generally inappropriate to wear jeans, do be aware that there may be exceptions. 

Casual

Now it’s finally time to get creative! Depending on your audience for a casual event, tank tops and shorts may not be accepted but feel free to pull out your favorite pair of jeans. This dress code opens the door to exploring different styles of fashion; make the most of it and come in what will make you feel more confident! Both men and women have a wide range of choices from comfortable t-shirts or more dressy tops. There is also a wide range of appropriate footwear, from boots to sneakers to dressy sandals. Since there is more leeway in what you can wear, take note of the weather, setting, and purpose of the event when making your final decisions. A great way to spruce up your look is to accessorize with jackets, hats, bags, and jewelry! The sky's the limit when it comes to casual dress codes.

Madison Bang