A lot has changed since Emily Post’s book about etiquette came out. We are left to ourselves to best define what modern day dress code etiquette means. Here is a helpful list that will help you navigate modern day dress etiquette.
WHITE TIE / ULTRA FORMAL
- Men: Full Dress (White Tie, Vest and Shirt)
- Women: Long Formal Gown
BLACK TIE / FORMAL
- Men: Tuxedo
- Women: Long Gown, Dressy Cocktail, Dressy Evening Separates
BLACK TIE OPTIONAL
- Men: Tuxedo or Dark Suite and Tie
- Women: Long Gown, Dressy Cocktail, Dressy Evening Separates
CREATIVE BLACK TIE (FORMAL EVENT WITH A THEME)
- Men: Tuxedo with a Theme Twist
- Women: Long Gown, Dressy Cocktail, Dressy Evening Separates with a Theme Twist
SEMI-FORMAL
- Men: Suit (Dark if Evening)
- Women: Cocktail Dress or Dressy Suit
BUSINESS FORMAL
- Men: Suit (Dark if Evening)
- Women: Cocktail Dress or Dressy Suit (Nothing Work Inappropriate)
COCKTAIL ATTIRE / INFORMAL
- Men: Dark Suit
- Women: Cocktail Dress
DRESSY CASUAL
- Men: Sport Coat and Dress Pant
- Women: Dress or Dressy Pant Suit
CASUAL
- Men: Really anything goes (I saw with hesitation)
- Women: It’s best to ask your host what is appropriate
We are going to be judged on how we carry and present ourselves, let’s make sure we are putting our best foot forward!
Some links are affiliated links which means O’Neil Events may receive a commission. The links are meant to be used as a discount to you! We wouldn’t suggest you use something we don’t use and love.
