FAQ

Consider the Invitation: The dress code specified on your invitation is your primary guide. "Black Tie" calls for formal evening wear, "Cocktail" suggests semi-formal attire, while "Casual" or "Dressy Casual" allows for more relaxed options.

Time and Venue: Daytime weddings typically call for lighter colors, shorter hemlines, and less formal fabrics. Garden weddings might call for sundresses or elegant separates, while church weddings often require more coverage and modesty. Beach weddings call for breathable fabrics and flat shoes.

Colors to Avoid: Never wear white, cream, or ivory, as these colors are traditionally reserved for the bride. Consider the season when choosing colors - pastels for spring, vibrant colors for summer, rich earth tones for fall, and deeper hues for winter.

Practical Considerations: Consider the wedding venue's conditions, the expected dancing and activities, and weather forecasts. Choose something you can move comfortably in and that suits the overall wedding aesthetic.

Jewelry: For formal events, invest in quality pieces that complement your outfit. Statement earrings work with almost any neckline, while a simple pendant necklace adds elegance without overwhelming. For black-tie events, consider wearing real or high-quality simulated diamonds, pearls, or other precious stones.

Bags: A small evening clutch or crossbody bag is essential for formal events. Choose one that fits your phone, ID, lipstick, and other essentials without requiring you to check a coat or bag throughout the evening.

Footwear: For women, elegant heels are appropriate for formal events - consider the height based on your comfort and the event's duration. For men, patent leather oxfords or sleek loafers complete a formal look. Always break in new shoes before the event or bring comfortable backups.

Layering Pieces: A stylish shawl, bolero jacket, or elegant blazer can provide warmth and add sophistication to your outfit. Choose pieces that complement rather than compete with your dress.

General Rule: When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly overdressed. It's better to be more formal than too casual, as it shows respect and professionalism.

For Corporate/Professional Industries: Men should wear a well-fitted suit in navy, charcoal, or black with a coordinating dress shirt and conservative tie. Women can opt for a tailored suit, a blazer with dress pants or a skirt, or a professional dress in neutral colors.

For Creative Industries: Business casual is often acceptable, allowing for more personality in your attire. Still, maintain a polished and put-together appearance with clean, wrinkle-free clothing.

Grooming: Ensure your hair is neat, nails are clean and trimmed, and any visible tattoos or piercings are appropriately presented. Light, professional fragrance is acceptable, but avoid heavy scents.

Cocktail attire calls for polished and sophisticated looks that are slightly more formal than everyday wear but not as elaborate as black-tie events. Women can wear knee-length dresses, elegant jumpsuits, or dressy separates - think midi dresses in statement colors, silk blouses with tailored trousers, or sophisticated wrap dresses. Men should opt for a dark suit with a dress shirt and tie; you can skip the tuxedo but keep the look refined with quality fabrics and proper tailoring.

Choose refined fabrics like silk, velvet, or high-quality cotton. Accessories should elevate your look without overwhelming it - a statement necklace, elegant watch, or sophisticated earrings work well. For footwear, women can choose heels, elegant flats, or dressy sandals, while men should wear polished dress shoes. The key is looking put-together while remaining comfortable enough for mingling and conversation.

Funeral attire should be respectful, modest, and understated. The general guideline is to wear dark, neutral colors such as black, navy, gray, or brown. However, many families now welcome any respectful attire, so when in doubt, contact a family member or close friend to ask about preferences.

For Men: A dark suit with a white or light-colored shirt and conservative tie is appropriate. If a suit isn't available, dress pants with a collared shirt and jacket work well. Avoid bright colors, casual clothing like jeans or t-shirts, and athletic shoes.

For Women: A dark dress, suit, or combination of skirt and blouse in conservative colors is appropriate. Choose modest hemlines and necklines, avoiding anything too revealing or flashy. Closed-toe shoes are generally preferred, though elegant flats work for many services.

Additional Considerations: Remove or cover visible body piercings (except modest earrings), avoid strong fragrances, and keep jewelry minimal and understated. Grooming should be neat and respectful.

Business casual is a dress code that combines professional elements with more relaxed pieces. While definitions vary by workplace, the goal is to look polished and put-together without the formality of a full suit and tie.

For Men: Khakis, chinos, or dress pants paired with a button-down shirt, polo shirt, or sweater. Blazers are optional but can elevate the look. Loafers, oxfords, or clean dress shoes complete the outfit. Avoid jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, and overly casual items.

For Women: Tailored pants, pencil skirts, or dress pants combined with blouses, sweaters, or professional tops. Blazers add polish to any outfit. Closed-toe flats, heels, or elegant sandals are appropriate. Avoid overly casual items like jeans (unless specifically permitted), athletic wear, or overly revealing clothing.

Tips: When starting a new job, observe what colleagues wear and gradually adjust. When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly more dressed up. Ensure all clothing is clean, pressed, and in good condition.

Court appearances require respectful, professional attire that demonstrates respect for the judicial process. Regardless of your role - whether you're a defendant, witness, or observer - presenting yourself well-dressed shows respect for the court.

For Men: A dark suit with a white or light-colored shirt and conservative tie is the most appropriate choice. If a suit isn't available, dress pants with a sports coat and button-down shirt work well. Shoes should be polished dress shoes. Avoid jeans, casual shirts, sneakers, and loud colors or patterns.

For Women: A suit (pants or skirt), a professional dress, or a coordinated blouse with dress pants or skirt is appropriate. Choose conservative colors like navy, black, gray, or beige. Ensure hemlines are modest and necklines are appropriate. Closed-toe heels or elegant flats work well.

General Guidelines: Remove hats upon entering the courtroom. Keep jewelry minimal and understated. Avoid strong fragrances. Ensure clothing is clean, pressed, and fits properly. When in doubt, always err on the side of being more formal.

Formal (Black Tie/Black Tie Optional): The most formal end of the dress code spectrum. For black tie, men wear tuxedos and women wear floor-length gowns. Black tie optional allows for very formal dark suits for men and elegant midi or long dresses for women. Think gala dinners, prestigious award ceremonies, and very upscale evening weddings.

Semi-Formal: A step below formal, semi-formal allows for more flexibility while still requiring a polished appearance. Men can wear a suit and tie without the full tuxedo treatment. Women can choose midi dresses, elegant cocktail dresses, or dressy separates. This dress code works for evening events that aren't quite black-tie level.

Cocktail: Typically the most common dress code for evening events. It's festive and allows for more personality while maintaining sophistication. Think knee-length dresses for women, suits (with or without ties) for men, and creative expression within refined boundaries. Perfect for dinner parties, receptions, and social gatherings.

Destination weddings require special consideration for both the dress code and practical logistics. The key is balancing appropriateness with practicality for the location and climate.

Beach Weddings: Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and chiffon are ideal. For men, a linen suit or dress shirt with dress pants works well (skip the tie). Women can choose maxi dresses, midi dresses, or elegant sundresses. Consider flat or wedge sandals over heels, which can sink into sand.

Garden/Vineyard Weddings: These venues often call for romantic, elegant attire with practical considerations for grass and uneven terrain. Midi dresses, tea-length gowns, or dressy separates work beautifully. For men, a lighter-colored suit or blazer with dress pants is appropriate. Wedges or block heels provide stability on grass.

City/Hotel Weddings: Typically follow more traditional dress codes, but you can add subtle touches reflecting the destination. If the invitation specifies formal attire, still honor that dress code regardless of location.

Practical Tips: Consider your packing needs and whether outfits can be worn multiple ways. Bring a backup outfit option in case of weather changes. Research local customs if the destination is international. Have a plan for transporting formalwear without wrinkling.

Graduation ceremonies are celebratory events that call for polished, semi-formal attire. Whether you're graduating or attending as family or friend, dressing appropriately shows respect for the achievement and the occasion.

For Graduates: Under your graduation gown, wear nice pants or a skirt with a collared shirt or blouse. You'll be sitting and standing multiple times, so choose comfortable clothing that allows movement. Closed-toe shoes are practical for walking across the stage. Consider the weather and choose layers if necessary.

For Guests: Semi-formal attire is typically appropriate. Nice dresses, dress pants with blouses, or coordinated separates work well. Men can wear a suit or dress pants with a button-down shirt. Avoid anything too casual like jeans or t-shirts, but also avoid outshining the graduates with overly formal attire.

Additional Considerations: Ceremonies can be long, so wear comfortable shoes if you'll be standing or sitting for extended periods. Choose practical bags or purses that can fit under seats or be held on your lap. Consider indoor-outdoor transitions and weather-appropriate outerwear.

Choosing the right shoes for formal events involves balancing style, comfort, and appropriateness for the occasion.

For Women: Heels are the traditional choice for formal events. Stilettos, pumps, or strappy sandals in neutral colors like black, nude, or metallics work with most outfits. Height should be chosen based on comfort and event duration - consider bringing backup flats for dancing or long events. For outdoor or grass events, wedges or block heels provide stability.

For Men: Patent leather oxfords are the most formal option for black-tie events. Regular leather oxfords or sleek loafers work for semi-formal occasions. Always match your belt to your shoe color, and ensure shoes are polished and in excellent condition.

Comfort Tips: Always break in new shoes before the event. Bring band-aids for potential friction points. Consider cushioned insoles for additional comfort. If the event involves lots of standing or walking, prioritize comfort without sacrificing style entirely.