So you’ve just received an invitation but it specifies a dress code and you have no idea what it means - never fear! Here’s a comprehensive guide to cracking the dress code and helping you fit into the scene without the stress and worry.

Before you have a look at the dress codes and their meanings, you must realise that dress codes are there for a reason. They allow one to feel comfortable and dress appropriately for a particular event without making a social blunder. If you don’t abide by the dress code then you risk being frowned upon or even refused entry! Plus, it’s rather rude to not dress the way the host would like you to. They chose you as a guest, so dressing the part is the least you can do, right?

WHITE TIE (or ULTRA-FORMAL)

White tie is the ultimate in formal wear. If your invitation says ‘white tie’, then you’re sure to be attending a very swank and special event.

For women: Floor-length dresses, ball gowns, immaculate dressing with silk, satin and jewels that are insurance-worthy.

For men: Black tailcoat, white piqué wing-collared shirt with a stiff front, white vest, white bow tie, white or grey gloves, black patent leather shoes with black socks.

BLACK TIE

Black tie is evening wear, worn after 6 o’clock. Think of the Oscars.

For women: Much like white tie; Long dresses, ball gowns, dressy evening separates, opera length gloves, capes, cloaks, glitz and glamour. You want to make a huge entrance with your threads!

For men: Tuxedo/dinner suit, short or medium black (or midnight blue) jacket, a black cummerbund or low-cut waistcoat (never both at the same time), black silk bow tie, braces/suspenders, white dress shirt, black socks, black patent leather shoes or polished oxfords, black trousers and top hats (not essential).

BLACK TIE OPTIONAL

This is one step down from black tie. You’re required to make an effort but don’t necessarily need to wear a long gown. Think of what you’d wear to a five-star restaurant.

For women: Long, medium and short dresses are all acceptable, but they don’t need to have the glitzy fabrics and adornments of black tie. You could even wear some dressy separates like a suit.

For men: You could go for the tuxedo (see black tie), or wear a dark suit with a white shirt and conservative tie - no Homer Simpson or smiley faced ties, if you get my drift.

SMART CASUAL (or BUSINESS CASUAL)

In general, smart or business casual means dressing professionally, looking relaxed, yet neat. It’s the half-way mark between business clothes and street wear. Generally, neckties are excluded from smart/business casual dress, unless worn in nontraditional ways. And so are jeans - don’t even go there.

For women: Dressy pants outfit, sundresses, cami and shorts, tennis shirt, cotton trousers, colours and prints. No strapless or low-cut dresses and tops.

For men: Blazers/sports coats, open collared shirts, tennis shirts, cotton trousers or khakis.

LOUNGE

Lounge is much like business attire. Jeans are still a big no-no and so are low-cut dresses and tops. It requires some polish, but you might want to leave the sequined dress at home and opt for something simpler.

For women: Try a camisole with man-style pants or accessorise a long jersey dress. Heels are fine, but don’t strut your stripper-styled heels or thigh high boots this time. You can, however, get away with some strappy heels. A wrap or cape to cover your shoulders would work too.

For men: Ties (bow ties are acceptable but unusual), top button of the shirt must be done up, ideally worn with cuffs, black lace-up shoes, black socks, jacket matching pants (should be in a dark colour).

POOLSIDE

Poolside doesn’t mean rock up with a bikini and towel! Dress for summer but keep it relaxed and neat. No holes, stains or tears. There’s no reason for the ladies to make it glamorous, either.

For women: Caftans, sundresses, sparkly flats, big sunglasses, polo shirt, shorts, bright colours, prints, light and flowy fabrics.

For men: Khakis, cargo or Bermuda shorts, polo shirt, sports jacket or light knit.

If you’re still undecided as to what to wear, consider the venue; Is it held at the ambassador’s castle or at the local pub? Is it a day or night event? Will there be a host/hostess, for example, a bride and groom? If you’re unsure of what to wear, ask the person who invited you or even ask other guests what they’ll be wearing. The invitation itself is usually a dead give-away - are there any pictures of girls in bikinis or a picture of two champagne glasses? It’s also important to note that dress codes slighty differ from country to country - confusing, I know.

Personally, I believe when in doubt, it’s always best to over-dress rather than under-dress. Except when it comes to weddings - never upstage the bride, and for god’s sake, never wear white!! I can’t stress that enough.

Have you ever showed up to an event in the wrong attire? Or even been knocked back from entering somewhere because of your clothes?

Big love,