Formal Dress Types

Formal dress makes an impression.

Formal dress lends itself to formal occasions, but just how formal can depend on how grand the event you are attending actually is. Black tie, white tie, wedding attire and smart casual are common types of formal dress. If you're attending an event that specifies formal dress, check with your hostess or company organizing the event if you are unsure of what to wear. Formal dress codes are continuously evolving and always open to different interpretations.

Black Tie

Black tie events are formal or semi-formal. They include formal dinners, cocktail parties, proms and charity fundraisers. Men wear a black silk or satin bow tie teamed with a white silk scarf. Ideally, a black tuxedo should be worn, although other dark blue tuxedos are sometimes acceptable. A cummerbund can be worn instead of a vest but should be won with the pleat facing up. Black socks are de rigeur and it helps if they are ribbed with silk. Women should wear an evening gown or cocktail dress in a silk, chiffon or satin material and a good quality cape or cloak. Women wearing a ball skirt can complement it with a cashmere sweater.

White Tie

White tie dress is normally reserved for an opening night at the opera or ballet, charity balls and events attended by royalty. A woman attending a white tie event might wear an ankle-length taffeta, silk or satin gown, ballet slippers or pumps and a cashmere shawl. A clutch bag and couture or vintage jewelry completes the ensemble. Her partner will sport a top hat and tails.

Business Attire

Plain dark suits are the safest business attire option for men. Pinstripe designs are also a good choice for men who work in finance and industry, or as managers. Lace-up shoes in a good quality leather are preferred footwear, while shirts should be clean and well-pressed with the top button of the collar closed. Businesswomen should wear a smart skirt or pants in a conservative color along with low-heeled pumps. A small amount of jewelry can be worn but should not be distracting. The purpose of business wear is to present a uniform appearance that reflects professional status.

Wedding Attire

People attending evening wedding receptions should check whether the invitation states formal, informal or semi-formal for eveningwear. Semi-formal and informal means dark suits and cocktail dresses. Formal dress is usually reserved for state or royal weddings. Guest attending the actual ceremony should take care not to upstage the bride or groom. Female guests should keep their shoulders and upper arms covered during the ceremony. Women generally wear smart dresses and hats at daytime wedding receptions. Men wear suits and can opt for lighter colors in summer.

References

• Dress Code Guide: Homepage
• Dress Code Guide: Formal (White Tie/Top Hat and Tails/Morning Suit) Evening For Her