Which dress code is appropriate for an event? 🎩

Having a dress code can either be implied by virtue of the event you’ve been invited to, or your host may be specific on the invitation as to the dress code required. Below is an explanation of commonly used dress codes:

 

White Tie

This is the most formal of the dress codes. Men should wear black pants, a black tailcoat (tails) and a formal white wing-collar shirt with plain white studs or those made from mother of pearl or white metal such as silver or platinum. A white waistcoat, white bow tie and black leather shoes complete the look. Ladies should wear an elegant long evening dress in a luxurious fabric such as satin, silk or velvet. Opulent jewellery, a small evening purse and formal heels (sparkly, bejewelled, satin, shiny) complete the look. Typically, “White Tie’ would be requested for State dinners, royal banquets and special gala events.

 

Black Tie

Men should wear a black tuxedo with a formal white dress shirt with black, white or metal buttons. A black bow tie and black leather shoes complete the look. Ladies should wear an elegant long evening dress and formal heels and carry a small evening purse. Typically, “Black Tie” would be requested for events such as award nights, more formal weddings and other extra special events. If an invitation says “Black Tie Optional”, guests have the option of dressing up in a tuxedo or floor length gown or in less formal attire such as a two-piece suit with white shirt and conservative tie, cocktail dress etc.

 

Cocktail

Men should wear a two-piece suit in a dark colour such as black, navy or grey with leather shoes in black or another colour that complements their outfit. Ladies should wear an elegant, shorter dress (just above the knee to mid-calf) in a special fabric such as satin, silk or lace. Typically, “Cocktail” attire would be requested for semi-formal evening events which include weddings, engagement parties, special dinners in high-end restaurants, exhibitions or business related functions.

 

Smart Casual

Men and women should wear something that looks neat, clean and smart. Typically, “Smart Casual” attire is worn to birthday parties. lunch dates and relaxed dinners in restaurants etc.

 

Casual

Men and women should wear something clean, tidy and comfortable. Clothing may include shorts, shirts, summery dresses, sandals etc. Typically, “Casual” attire is worn to family events, barbecues, relaxed social gatherings and while on holiday.

 

In Theme

Some invitations may ask those attending to wear clothing in a specific theme. This creates more of a party vibe and could include, for example, the following themes:

• Roaring 20’s (Gatsby)
• James Bond
• Masquerade
• Hollywood
• Disco
• Wild West

Or, the invitation may direct those attending to “Dress Gorgeous or Dress in Theme”. This provides guests the option of dressing up in the relevant theme or coming dressed to impress in their most stylish attire.

 

~      ~      ~

 

If no specific instructions are received, the venue and time of day of the function will usually determine what clothing would be suitable to wear. If you’re attending a wedding or a funeral, or you’re dining out in a fancy restaurant, you should always dress for the occasion. When you’re not sure what the appropriate clothing should be, a general rule of thumb is to ask the host, or overdress for the event. After all, in the words of Oscar Wilde, “you can never be overdressed or overeducated.” It’s always easier to remove a tie, jacket or jewellery, or unpin long hair if it’s in an elegant updo if you arrive and feel overdressed, rather than be unprepared and underdressed.

 

127 ~ 28/02/2026

© Lindy Cooke Celebrant