Which outfit to choose for a social event?
What is a social event? How to understand that you have been invited to a secular event? Most often it is any solemn event with an invitation that you are handed in person. It could be a wedding, a cocktail party, a business meeting or a formal lunch. Of course, a business meeting or other diplomatic event does not always give a formal invitation. But still, such an event requires a compulsory, special outfit. A special feature of such event is a mandatory dress code. It is usually spelt out in the invitation or discussed additionally. We will talk about it today.
So, since events are on various occasions, so the dress code is different. There is even a special classification for different appearance requirements.
Formal events can be divided into morning, afternoon and evening. The morning event takes place before 11 or 12 o’clock in the afternoon. The daily event is up to about 16-18 hours. Such events should not be worn in a dark evening gown, preferring light colours. Of course, unless otherwise provided in the invitation. The evening event starts after 18. At that time evening dresses, suits and tuxes are already being worn.
You have received an invitation with the note “white tie”, “black tie”, “black tie invited” or some other. How to figure out what to wear? Let us decipher the meaning of the names of the most popular dress codes for social events.
Most types of dress codes have specific requirements and even bans.
White tie
For women required evening dress, heel shoes, gloves, evening purse. Bare hands, loose hair and costume jewellery are prohibited. Most often, such requirements are made at receptions by ambassadors and presidents.
Black tie
Not as strict dress code as the previous and most common for many official events. You can use it in cases where the requirements for appearance are not clearly stated, but the event clearly requires a special appearance. Requirements: A long, evening dress that hides legs for women and a tuxedo for men.
Black tie invited
It gives you more freedom to choose your outfits. Women can choose a knee-length or lower dress. Evening costume with pants or skirt is still allowed. For men, as usual, the best option is a suit, tie or butterfly. A woman can choose almost any shoes. The main rule: closed sock and heel. Men’s shoes should always be classic and dark in colour.
Semi-formal
In this case, a tuxedo for men is not necessary. Just a normal suit and tie are optional. Women can choose for themselves a cocktail dress or a simple elegant dress. Evening, long floor dress is optional.
If you have any doubts about the criteria for the evening look, or if they are not clearly stated in the invitation, please contact the organizers. Remember that you always have to look elegant. For a win-win look, prefer classic clothing. A social event is not a place for experimentation.
