What the heck does business semi-formal informal mean?
Have you ever received an invitation a holiday party or special occasion where a dress code was specified but you were unsure what was expected? You know how it feels to show up to an event when you are underdressed. When you know your image is on target you can relax, forget about it, have fun and be yourself. Below are some tips and advice to dress for success at your special event.
BLACK TIE – Dress code definition
For men:
This means the tuxedo (no tails). The most attractive and classy look for men is the classic black tuxedo with black tie, white dress shirt, cufflinks & studs (to replace buttons).
Top it off with black silk/fine socks (long enough to hide your shins), black shiny/patent leather shoes and a vest or cummerbund – the waist wrap (the folds face up to catch the crumbs – that’s why it’s nicknamed a crumb-catcher)
For women:
Black tie means glitter and glitz, evening/long dresses usually strappy or strapless with sheer hosiery and rich strappy, even Metallic sandals/pumps.
Style for Success Tip:
Men can go for other tux colors but they aren’t as classic for black tie. Our advice if you’re buying a tux, you will get much longer wear and better value with a classic styled black tux. If renting, you can go for a more fashion forward color or style.
FORMAL (sometimes called – Black Tie Optional, most cruise ship formal evenings are this level)
For men:
This means wear a tux but a dark suit can also work. If wearing a dark suit, a white shirt and dark tie work best. Dark dress socks and well-shined, dark dress shoes.
For women:
Long dress or a cocktail length dress (somewhere around the knee) is also an option. Again rich strappy shoes or satin. Accessories/jewelry with glitter and shine.
SEMI-FORMAL (aka – also known as – Cocktail or Holiday Attire, more formal Christmas party or wedding)
For men:
Good quality dark suit, white shirt, dark tie with dark socks and black shoes
(lighter colored suit, brighter colored shirt and tie will work for a day time event)
For women:
Cocktail dress or dressy pant suit is an option. Sheer hosiery, dressy pumps
INFORMAL (aka – Business Attire)
For men:
This means standard business wear. Could be a suit but more likely dress pants and a sports jacket with or without a tie, colored shirt or fine gauge plain colored knit sweater/polo shirt.
For women:
A dress, pantsuit or a skirt with or without a jacket.
Add some bright accents/accessories.
BUSINESS CASUAL – definition
For men:
A jacket is not essential, however have one on hand in case of an unexpected meeting. Slacks or khakis, colorful shirt/fine gauge knit top and tie is optional.
For women:
Colorful sporty looks. Novelty jacket (patterned or textured) or smart sweaters with skirt or pants.
More Style for Success Tips
Special occasions are just that – special occasions.
To look a little classier and feel more confident, try to dress at the same level as the top 25% of people attending the holiday party or special event.
If the invitation doesn’t indicate a clothing/dress code, our advice is to call the event planner or someone who’s attended before, to check what’s expected. When in doubt, dress for success a little more formal.
Look good and have fun!
P.S. – Don’t forget in winter (especially in Edmonton and Calgary here in western Canada) pay attention to your outerwear too. Check out Terry’s outerwear advice here.