Deciphering Dress CodesBusiness Casual

Smart CasualCocktail Wear

Black TieWhite Tie

Business Casual - Women

Separates or a dress are both fine for business casual

Tailored pieces are ideal, but avoid anything which looks uncomfortable or too formal; the overall effect should still be quite relaxed

Heels aren’t necessary, but a pair that you can walk in easily will keep your look professional

Aim to look professional but stylish – choose classic looks over trendier options – and keep in mind that it should be appropriate for a workplace

Business Casual - Men

Start with a classic button-down or polo shirt

Khakis, chinos or other smart trousers are best

Ties are optional

In cooler months you can layer on a sweater, blazer or a light suit jacket

Aim to look professional but stylish – choose classic looks over trendier options – and keep in mind that it should be appropriate for a workplace

Smart Casual - Women

Add a smart top and a pair of heels

Accessorise with a statement bag or jewellery, but avoid going over the top

Attention to detail is key; make sure your hair and makeup is co-ordinated with the rest of your look

Somewhere between casual and formal, but not too dressed up

A pencil skirt is a great choice, but you can also go for a dress or some well-cut trousers

Smart Casual - Men

Team a pair of smart trousers with a collared shirt

Ties aren’t required

A suit jacket is optional, but a full suit is too much

Finish with a relaxed pair of shoes – loafers are perfect, trainers are too casual

Somewhere between casual and formal, but not too dressed up

Cocktail Wear - Women

Cocktail dresses tend to fall above the knee, but definitely aren’t mini length

A little black dress is the ultimate failsafe, and can be accessorised with jewellery

But colour is also invited with this dress code – look for jewel tones and keep to elegant styles

Tailored trousers, especially cigarette pants, work equally well with a dressy top and heels

A big step up from smart casual, this usually means a semi-formal evening event

Cocktail Wear - Men

Choose a dark-coloured suit and tie to play it safe

If it’s an event with a creative crowd you can experiment with colour a bit more – but still keep it smart and evening appropriate

Depending on the venue, atmosphere and event type, you might be able to forgo the tie

A big step up from smart casual, this usually means a semi-formal evening event

Black Tie - Women

A full-length gown is usually most appropriate

Depending on the venue and the event details, a formal cocktail dress might work

Accessorize with elegant jewellery and a clutch bag, if required

Finish with a pair of standout heels

Mostly seen at weddings, charity events and very formal parties or dinners

Black Tie - Men

A tuxedo (without tails) would be ideal

Choose a classic tux jacket with satin-striped trousers, a cummerbund and a bow tie

Alternatively, a dark suit with a classic white shirt and black tie is usually fine

Mostly seen at weddings, charity events and very formal parties or dinners

White Tie - Women

For such a formal event, a floor-length gown is expected

Opera length gloves are optional and depend on the occasion

High heels are essential

Wear your hair up and add sparkling jewellery – this is the time to go all out

This dress code signifies an incredibly formal event – nights at the opera, dinner with dignitaries or high profile galas or ceremonies. Renting clothes that you wouldn’t otherwise buy is definitely an option

White Tie - Men

You’ll need a black tailcoat, in short or waist length

Tails should reach the back of your knees

Wear it with a starched white shirt and a white bow tie

Cummerbunds are ideal, but not strictly essential

The trousers should also be black, with satin seams on the outside leg

This dress code signifies an incredibly formal event – nights at the opera, dinner with dignitaries or high profile galas or ceremonies. Renting clothes that you wouldn’t otherwise buy is definitely an option

White kid gloves, a black top hat, a white boutonniere and white silk scarf are optional accessories depending on the occasion, but aren’t usually expected