While it may look elegant, you wouldn't wear your prom dress to a job interview. Depending on the setting and the occasion, you may need to determine which clothes would match your upcoming event's dress code.
Many event coordinators or hosts will designate a dress code for attendees so that everyone wears appropriate attire. Read on and find out the different formal dress codes women follow.
A Guide to Different Formal Dress Codes
When it comes to formal events, guests typically receive the dress code as part of their invitation. These dress codes could even include specific instructions, such as a color scheme or a fashion style that all guests must wear to attend. To make sure you're appropriately and comfortably dressed, discover the formal dress codes for women and what attire falls under these categories.
Black Tie
Black tie events are highly formal occasions. For women, this typically calls for a full-length evening gown. To create a grand look, choose rich fabrics such as silk or chiffon and accessorize with minimalist jewelry as the perfect pairing for the event.
White Tie
White tie is a high-ranking dress code that you won't often see in your everyday RSVP letters. It often requires a floor-length ball gown paired with opera gloves and sophisticated accessories like a clutch and statement jewelry. While this attire is mostly for royal banquets, state dinners, or high-society galas, you can use these standards as a reference if you feel that your attire is too gauche for the event.
Cocktail Attire
Cocktail attire balances between playful and formal for those nights out in the city. Women often adorn knee-length dresses or stylish jumpsuits for comfort and movement. Pair the outfit with sleek high heels or ankle boots to bring the look together.
Business Formal
Business formal refers to a formal event usually hosted by a professional workplace. These events stray away from party dresses as women will wear tailored pantsuits or pencil skirts paired with a blazer. The colors are usually neutral and use minimal patterns or textures for a clean, professional look.
Festive Formal
Some events call for festive formal, which combines formal elegance with a touch of celebration. This could be bold-colored gowns, sequined dresses, or playful pantsuits complemented by bright accessories representing the holiday. If you plan to attend a holiday party or a New Year's Eve event, see if the host expects their guests to wear something that matches the scenery.
Semi-Formal
Semi-formal gives women the freedom to slightly tone down their outfits while still looking polished. This could mean wearing knee-length dresses, an A-line skirt with a tailored top, or even chic separates. While this dress code leans toward casual wear, try to avoid graphic tees, lounge pants, or tennis shoes, as these designs could distract your outfit.
Formal Dress Codes for Corporate Events
Corporate events often require women to blend style with professionalism. From a holiday party to a team bonding session, you could find yourself in a setting that requires a formal outfit. Before you get your best dress dry cleaned, determine what kind of event your corporate office is hosting and how they want their employees to dress for the occasion.
Conferences and Seminars
For events like conferences or seminars, business formal would be a safe option. A midi dress with a blazer presents a polished appearance and will likely be something that you wear as everyday work attire. If the setting allows designs, subtle patterns in muted tones can add personality to your attire without being distracting.
Award Ceremonies
Award ceremonies in the corporate world usually lean toward black tie or cocktail attire. An elegant velvet dress or an evening gown will align perfectly with this setting, especially if your company nominates you. Complete the look with closed-toe heels that you'll feel comfortable standing and sitting in.
Team Dinners and Networking Events
Networking events often call for semi-formal attire as you greet others and represent your company. This is the chance to personalize your outfit by styling with some of your favorite colors or patterns. A dress or skirt paired with a blouse and blazer is a great way to showcase your professional look without standing out in a casual setting.
Dressing for Weddings
Weddings are a unique event that requires elegant dresses, formal suits, and refined accessories. Whether you're a guest or part of the bridal party, you'll want a tailored outfit that fits comfortably during the ceremony and the reception. Pay attention to the details of your wedding invitation to see what kind of attire the wedding coordinator allows.
Black Tie Weddings
If the wedding invitation specifies black tie, your go-to pick is a formal evening gown made from satin or silk. Most weddings will have designated colors for the bridal party, so avoid using these color schemes if you are a regular guest at the event.
Garden Weddings
For outdoor weddings, especially garden nuptials, semi-formal or cocktail attire is usually more fitting. You'll want to wear a dress that can withstand the outdoor weather. To match the scenery, find a dress that showcases floral patterns or pastel shades for an enchanting look.
Destination Weddings
Destination weddings often provide more flexibility in the dress code. For example, a beach wedding is a more casual event that calls for a maxi dress or a chic jumpsuit. Before you settle on your dress, consult with the bride and groom or the wedding planner to see if your outfit matches their setting.
Navigating Dress Codes for Celebratory Events
Formal celebrations like galas, anniversaries, or milestone birthdays will require you to dress up for the occasion. To avoid outshining the celebrants, wear a formal dress that matches the dress code of the event.
Charity Galas
Charity galas often require black tie attire to match the high-end atmosphere. A floor-length gown paired with glittering accessories is a standard choice that will prevent you from standing out.
Formal Parties
Formal parties, whether birthdays or retirement celebrations, will usually follow similar guidelines as festive formal occasions. While many people host their parties in a more casual setting, the formal attire of these could differ based on the venue. Check in with the host to see if they have a specific dress code for the event.
Traditional Celebrations
Cultural or traditional celebrations like quinceañeras or Sweet 16's will require guests to dress in traditional clothes or formal attire. Find out your role in these celebrations to determine how formal you'll have to dress for the event.
Prepare your wardrobe for a variety of events by looking for outfits that can work for any occasion. Dresses aren't the only way you can fit into formal attire—don't forget to include accessories! Whether you add on a bejeweled necklace or a comfy pair of heels, you can design a universal outfit that will fit any dress code.
For those special moments, however, you may want to invest in a tailored dress. At Alexandras Boutique, we offer a wide range of formal dresses, including mother-of-the-bride dresses in Massachusetts. Wear a dress that will commemorate the occasion, and be sure to follow the dress code of your next formal event!
