Cracking the Dress Code

With Holiday Party Season in full swing, you'll surely be receiving several invitations, each with their own dress codes. Here's a little guide to help you decide what to wear:

White Tie is the dressiest of dressy – think Oscars for regular folks like us. It’s pretty much impossible to overdress for a white-tie event. Find whatever you think is over-the-top dressy and then take it up a notch just to make sure you’re not slummin’ it.

(Valentino)

A Black Tie Optional or Black Tie Invited gives men the option of wearing a tuxedo or a dark, double-breasted suit. Women can take this opportunity to wear a long, formal gown, an elegant cocktail dress or dressy evening separates.

(Donna Karen)

(Carolina Hererra)

Creative Black Tie leaves room for trendy interpretations of formal wear.

(J. Crew)

Semi-Formal or After Five means no long gowns, though certain long dresses are acceptable. An event before 6pm would still require dark suits for him, and a cocktail dress for her. Events after 6pm dictate a suit for him and any weather-appropriate dress for her.

Business Formal is the same as Semi-Formal for him, but women should stay away from anything slinky or sexy and go for a more tailored look.

(Banana Republic)

(Kay Unger)

(J. Crew)

Cocktail Attire means short, fun and flirty dresses for her – the perfect occasion for the LBD - and dark suits for him. 


(Marc Jacobs)

(Lela Rose)

(Anne Taylor)

Festive Attire is my favorite! You’ll typically get this invite around the holidays, with the mood of the party being celebration. It can be dressy or casual – just choose looks with a bit of sparkle!

(Mandalay)

(J. Crew)

(EDressMe)

Dressy Casual calls for dressed-up versions of casual looks.

(BCBG)