Dress Code

A dress code sets out how to dress, including footwear, for a particular occasion. Knowing what it calls for helps you arrive appropriately dressed and avoid an awkward mismatch. Here are five common dress codes, the occasions where you might encounter them and what to wear. 

Black tie

Where? Weddings, balls, the opera, galas and strictly formal evening events.

If an invitation specifies black tie, it calls for a tuxedo. Traditionally, this means a black evening jacket with satin shawl or peak lapels, satin-covered buttons and pocket trim, and trousers with a single satin stripe down each outer seam. Add a white dress shirt with a suitable collar and French cuffs, a black bow tie and black patent leather shoes. If the invitation says creative black tie, you can add one creative detail, such as a lapel pin, coloured bow tie or jacket with contrasting lapels. 

Formal

Where? Weddings, balls, the theatre and evening social events.

Formal dress, or a dark suit, leaves nearly as little room for interpretation as black tie. Choose a black or very dark midnight-blue suit with a plain, understated shirt and a tie. Select the shirt collar to suit the tie. Complete the outfit with black lace-up leather shoes and black socks. 

Tip: if you wear suits, read our article 11 common suit style mistakes.

Business

Where? Business, finance and law, and less formal weddings.

As a general rule for business dress, suits become darker as the day progresses. Summer suits tend to be lighter, winter suits darker. Pair them with understated shirts in white, cream or pale blue. For daytime wear, a subtle check or stripe can work, as can a patterned tie that coordinates with the shirt and suit. Shoes can be black, brown or beige. Business creative adds a touch of personality to this look, perhaps through a coloured lapel pin, bright socks or a patterned bow tie.   

Smart casual

Where? Less formal meetings, gallery openings, exhibitions, dates, dinner with friends and company parties. 

Smart casual is stylish without being formal. For such occasions, it helps to have at least two blazers, perhaps patterned, a few pairs of plain trousers in grey, beige or navy, and some more distinctive shirts. A pocket square, knitted tie or lapel accessory can finish the look. 

Casual

Where? Informal meetings, walks and leisure time.

Casual dress is for leisure and is likely among the most comfortable clothing you own. Think jeans, polo shirts and patterned shirts. In winter, a lightweight pullover or cardigan can be worn with jeans or plain trousers.  

If you receive an invitation with a dress code and need help deciding what to wear, simply contact your style consultant or email us at info@cavalier.cz 

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