dress codes – Everyday Manners

Dress Codes Unwrapped: Holiday and Festive Attire

It is that time of year. Holiday parties are often sprinkled throughout our December calendars. Whether it is a work, family, or community event, there are often expectations of appropriate dress for these occasions. The formality of attire often depends on the time of day of the gathering. Daytime get-togethers are usually more casual and evening events could be defined as semi-formal or festive. Another clue to the level of dress is location. If your event is at a 5-star hotel, that lends itself to dressy festive attire. If your event is at the local axe-throwing venue, you might want to lean toward cute holiday apparel. So, what is festive/holiday attire?

For men, a good quality dark suit, white shirt, and dark tie are safe and appropriate. A festive tie and/or socks are a fun twist for the holidays. Adding texture and color can intensify that fun. Velvet, cashmere, patterns, and festive colors in sweaters, jackets, and pants can lighten up a drab party.

For women, a cocktail dress (hitting around the knee) or a dressy pantsuit will always work. Adding color and texture is a way to show your personal style. So, jewel tones, velvet, cashmere, sequins, and other sparkles in clothing and accessories add to the cheery occasion. Showing some skin is acceptable here in bare arms and shoulders, but you may want to bring a pashmina or winter wrap for warmth and possible wardrobe malfunctions.

Gatherings these days tend to be less formal and more fun (festive). So, when in doubt, ask the host/hostess what they are wearing. They set the standard. If it is a work-related event, err on the conservative side and try to stay in the top 25% of your peers when it comes to formality. There are likely to be pictures and you don’t want to be captured for all eternity in an inappropriate disposition.

Though this time of year is often stressful for many reasons, don’t let what to wear add more anxiety to your days. Talk to other invited guests or check the internet for ideas. You are going to a party and it is supposed to be fun. So have fun with your attire and let the festivities begin!

Dress Codes Unwrapped: Black-Tie vs White-Tie

When you think of black-tie or white-tie events, you may think of words such as, glamorous, fancy, or elegant. But what it really means is: formal. Most of us do not attend or even get invited to many formal events these days. We might occasionally get invited to a formal wedding, award ceremony, gala, or opera but probably not enough to own a tuxedo or formal gown. So, what is the difference between black tie and white tie in dress codes? It could not be as simple as it sounds.

For men, when black tie is the dress code, the expectation is a formal jacket, shirt, and pants, plus a bow or long tie. Cufflinks and pocket squares are optional. A tuxedo is appreciated, but a very nice suit is acceptable. The jacket and pants should match, but the suit does not have to be black. Dark grey, blue, or brown can work, but the tie (as the name suggests) must be black.

For women, when black tie is the dress code, a medium-length cocktail dress or full-length evening gown is expected. Typically, patterns are frowned upon. Solid colors are a better blend with formal menswear. Classic heels, a clutch, tasteful jewels, and a shawl also fit the code.

White tie is the most formal dress code. As the name suggests, a white tie is expected for men. And this time, it must be a bow tie. A tuxedo is required, and tails and top hats are options, but white gloves are a must.

White gloves are also expected for women at a white-tie event. Their dress can be a full-length evening gown or ball gown. Heels are a must and up hair is the expectation. If jewels are worn, they should be the most elegant. A clutch and fur or bolero vest can round out a woman’s ensemble.

So, yes, as simple as it sounds, right? What is key to remember is that you are not alone in your pursuit to attend a formal event appropriately dressed. So please use your resources. The host/hostess, other attendees, and the internet can guide you in the right direction. And most importantly, have fun!

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