Invitations for New Year’s Eve and the winter party circuit have arrived including a suggested dress code. What does the party host really mean when the invitation is marked: casual, formal, cocktail, business, or black tie optional? Below I have provided a codebreaker to help out this season.
Casual Attire
If someone goes to the trouble of sending out an invitation this season, dress code casual does not mean sweat pants. Put on an appropriately chic outfit. This season add a little lame velvet (pants, booties or shirt) and maybe sparkly chandelier earrings. High heels are not required but a cute little hostess gift is nice. Sneakers are generally a “No No” in more conservative areas like The South, DC or London. If you are going to a party in the West Village you can get away with something like the fabulous Gucci Ace Loved Embellished Trainer but pair it with a gold sequin or lame top.
Cocktail Attire
A fabulous pair of heels (sandals or pumps) will turn almost any outfit into cocktail attire. This season, there are also amazing “cocktail” worthy boots such as the Gianvito Rossi satin booties or Saint Laurent Crystal boots. Add an LBT and you are ready to rock it.
Black Tie Optional
There is no option in black tie optional. If the invite says black tie optional, that means the hostess has purchased a really fabulous dress and is dying to wear it. She will want you to do so as well. Heels with a long dress made of satin, lace, lame, sequins or all of the above is appropriate.
Business Attire
Business attire for an industry or corporate event invite depends less on your position and more on your industry. Remember, even though this is a party, a business event is always about networking and you are being tested and interviewed in an informal setting. If your industry or company is:
- Conservative: The dress code for this one is specific to the company or industry not your job. I like a sheath dress/jacket combination. Alternatively, you can wear a dark skirt suit or pantsuit with a silk/satin shirt in a bright color. Add a great pair of pumps.
- Marketing/Fashion: See comments on Cocktail attire. Make sure you add a little edge.
- Internet company: The dress code at a small Internet company or progressive type company will be more casual and you should take the queue from the company trends. Key touches to any attire include velvet, leather or lame but keep it edgy.
In the end, remember you should wear what makes you feel fabulous and makes the feel host appreciated.
