Deciphering Dress Codes

So it's Holiday party season. My old firm used to throw huge, themed formal parties like Casino Night and spend tens of thousands. My last firm? Well, they usually took me to the conference room, give me a list of things I can improve on and then hand me a bonus check. It was a confusing meeting.

Needless to say, I've been to quite the range and have had to decipher invitations with words like "casual elegant" or "soiree". The traditional formal invitations and clear expectations have gone by the wayside leaving Facebook invites and more questions than answers.  Hint: if there is a Facebook invite there should never be a tie. I put together a list of the terms I see most for you. Let me know if there are any I still haven't covered!

If you need to know where to find formal wear, look here. 

White Tie

This is the ultra luxe of parties. Think high government or celebrity parties. If you're going to one of these, feel free to send me an invite! #lifegoals. Tux for men and floor length evening gowns for women. Glam it up with statement jewelry and quality shoes. 

Black Tie 

Slightly less formal than white tie, but still very formal. In addition to tuxedos and floor length gowns you can sneak in a very nice suit (suit and tux are different), shorter gowns and even some dressy little black dresses.

Black Tie Optional/Black Tie Creative

The trendier sister of Black Tie parties. Expect the same level of class but with a little stretching of the white shirt/black tie rules. Tux is not mandatory- swap it for a dark suit and you'll be fine, men. Ladies, Separates are acceptable as long as they fit the "creative" aspect. All around, think trendy accessories, trendy colors, trendy cuts.

Formal
If they left off the descriptors and left you with just "formal", you're safe in the conservative zone. Its very similar to the Black Tie Optional if not intended the very same.

Semi-Formal
One of my least favorite dress codes because it is left so open for interpretation. I always opt for the more formal end rather than not. Darker colors, minimal print etc. No jackets or ties required, no floor length- just a nice dress or dressy separates.  

Cocktail Attire

This usually means it will be a party-centric event and less centered around the formalities. Its festive in nature so fun patters or colors are acceptable. Men may or may not be wearing ties with their suits. You may also see a pair of dark jeans or two in the crowd paired with a jacket- make sure the event really is that casual before you step out in jeans.  Women generally opt for a shorter length dress but a long dress in a less formal fabric than a gown is fully acceptable. LBD is perfection for these parties.

Smart Casual

Very similar to business casual. Men are not required to wear jackets and women can pair separates. Men should be fine in slacks or very nice jeans with a button down. Women in pencil skirts and tops with longer sleeves or a more casual dress.

Casual
This one we should all be acquainted with, but let me stress that it does not mean worn out jeans and t-shirts with sayings on them. If you are attending a structured party with people you don't share DNA or drinks with and you are unsure of how casual it is, always go for two steps above ratty jeans and t-shirt. Men: nice jeans, polo, button up or cardigan. Women: jeans and flats, casual dress or trendy pants and a cute top.