What is a Dress Code? It is
a standard or a norm that acts as a guide to let us know what is appropriate to
wear to a certain place or event. Whether it be a business
event or a social event, it is important to give a good first impression. When attending any event, it is courteous to adhere
to the dress code. An event can be informal or formal and within these two
definitions are different dress codes.
An informal event can have a Lounge, Smart-casual
or Casual dress code while a formal event can have a more specific White-Tie or
Black-Tie dress code.
Let’s take a look at the different dress
codes that pertain to different events.
Informal
Event:
An informal event simply means that it is
not formal. It means it’s definitely not a Black-Tie event. Although informal,
the event would generally require a business suit. An informal dress code is
typically a suit and tie for men and a suit dress for women.
An informal dress
code can also be a Smart-Casual dress code. A Smart-Casual dress code is a dress shirt and dress pants but no
tie for men and a sun-dress, dress, pant suit or skirt suit for women.
An informal dress
code also includes a Casual dress
code. A Casual dress code can mean a polo shirt and pants for men and dress or
pants with shirt for women.
Formal Event:
A formal event would
require a formal dress code. A formal dress code can mean a White-Tie or Black-Tie dress code.
A White-Tie dress
code is the most formal dress code. A
White-Tie dress code comes in to affect after 6.00 p.m. and is usually acceptable
at state dinners or evening balls. A White-Tie dress code for men is an evening
dress coat, white bow-tie, white waistcoat and a starched collar shirt.
A White-Tie dress
code for women is a ball gown.
The less formal
dress code for a formal event is the Black-Tie dress code. The Black-Tie dress
code is for an evening event mainly after 6 p.m.
The Black-Tie dress
code for men is a black suit, a white dress shirt, a black bow-tie, a
cummerbund, and black dress shoes.
A Black-Tie dress
code for women can vary but consists of a dress, either ankle or mid-calf
length, gloves, stole and evening shoes.
Being aware of what
traditional dress codes mean is important, not only to create a good impression
at an event but also show respect to the host or hostess.
Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting
