What is the dress code? See the types and rules

What is the dress code?

A dress code is a set of dress code rules that define how we should dress depending on the occasion, but not only. It is also influenced by the religion, culture or country you are in. There are several types of dress code. During every occasion in our lives, there is a dress code to suit the particular event. From the very formal to the more casual, ideal for everyday life. We will dress differently for a job interview, for a friend's wedding, and still differently for a coffee with friends or a flight. Depending on which dress code you opt for, it is important to tailor your outfit to the place you are going. Are you curious about the different types of dress code? Let's explore the different types.

What types of dress code are there?

Above all, the dress code is chosen according to the occasion - it is the occasion that dictates the terms of play here. It's important to know the rules of each dress code, so that you can always look your best and be inspired. Remember that you don't always have to stick rigidly to the set rules.

Formal dress code:

• white tie,
• black tie,
• cocktail.

Business dress code:

• business formal,
• business casual,
• business smart.

Dress code casual:

• smart casual.

White tie dress code - very formal evening wear

The white tie dress code is the most formal evening dress. It is obligatory during events of very high prestige, e.g. royal balls or Nobel prizes.

What does the white tie consist of?

For men:

• tailcoat - black, made of shiny material, with characteristic ‘halves’ at the back;
• waistcoat - white, preferably cotton or quilted;
• shirt - white, stiff, with high collar;
• white bow tie - hand-tied (hence the name white tie);
• tailcoat trousers - with double side stripes (stripes made of the same material as the tailcoat);
• shoes - varnished shoes (usually oxford type), black and shiny;

accessories - white gloves (sometimes), pocket watch (never on the wrist), cylinder (optional), sometimes walking stick.

For women:

• ball gown - long, very elegant, preferably made of luxurious fabrics;
• gloves - often long, reaching above the elbow;
• jewellery - striking, usually diamond or pearl;
• hairdo - usually formal and neat.Hair is always pinned up;
• shoes - elegant, classic, with heels.

Black tie dress code - elegant evening wear

Black tie dress code is slightly less formal than white tie, but it is still one of the most formal styles, usually required for events with a medium level of formality such as parties, galas or weddings. Black tie attire is formal but at the same time allows for freedom of self-expression.

What makes up the black tie dress code?

For men:

• dinner jacket - can be black or dark blue;
• white shirt - with double cuffs and classic collar;
• tie - preferably black silk;
• shoes - black leather shoes such as oxfords would be a good choice.

For women:

• long evening dress - usually in a dark colour....
• accessories - a clutch bag and high-heeled shoes work best.

Cocktail dress code - medium formal dress code

Cocktail dress code is the preferred style of dress for cocktail parties (hence the name), weddings, banquets or other events of medium formality. It could be said that this style is a more casual alternative to the black tie, but still requires an appropriate level of elegance.

What makes up the cocktail dress code?

For men:

• classic suit - in a dark colour, can be single or double-breasted;
• shirt - white or pastel-coloured, with a classic collar;
• shoes - leather oxfords;
• accessories - a classic silk tie will complete the look perfectly.

For women:

• cocktail dress - with a knee length or slightly above. Dresses can be in a classic colour, such as black, but you can also opt for more colourful proposals;
• shoes - you can indulge in heeled sandals or ballerinas.

Dress code smart casual

The smart casual style stands for sporty elegance. It is one of the least formal dress codes. It is more elegant than casual, but is based on comfortable styles. In smart casual, very formal elements are avoided while maintaining a professional appearance. The style is suitable for birthday parties, christenings or going to the cinema or theatre.

What makes up the smart casual dress code?

For men:

• trousers - chinos and fabric trousers;
• Polo shirts - in classic colours, e.g. Bogner;
• Jumpers - plain, muted colours;
• shoes - moccasins.

For women:

• simple midi or maxi dress,
• cigarette dresses,
• pencil skirts,
• blazers,
• elegant blouses,
• shoes - medium heels or ballerinas.

Read also: How to dress smart casual

Business casual dress code

The business casual dress code combines professionalism with comfort. It is a dress code for people who prefer a slightly more casual style. It is most often used in workplaces where a degree of formality is required, but not the typical business formal style. In business casual, you can allow yourself a degree of freedom, which translates into greater comfort.

What makes up the business casual dress code?

For men:

• trousers - chinos or fabric,
• polo shirts,
• jumpers,
• shoes - leather derby or moccasins.

For women:

• fabric trousers - chinos, cigarette trousers ;
• midi skirts - in muted colours;
• shirts - white, black, pastel shades;
• shoes: moccasins, ballerinas.

Casual dress code

Casual style is the least formal of all the types of dress code discussed in this article. It is characterised by casualness and a low degree of formality, but at the same time it is very neat. It used to be that casual style was mainly associated with weekend outfits, intended for less formal times. Today, however, we have a great deal of freedom to express ourselves through clothing.

What makes up the casual dress code?

For men:

• jeans,
• polo shirts,
• cotton T-shirts,
• jumpers and blouses,

For women

• jeans,
• straight cut dresses and skirts.
• Polo shirts and T-shirts, e.g. Polo Ralph Lauren.
• shirts - looser cuts are acceptable, not necessarily the smart ones.

Dress code - summary

As you can see, there are quite a few types of dress code. Although each has strict rules that define it, remember that fashion is a means of expression and you can take these rules with a pinch of salt (unless you're about to go to the royal ball). Your clothes are with you everywhere during major events so it is important to just feel good in them.