Decoding the dress code: What to wear for black tie, cocktail, smart casual and more

Dressing for a big event can be tricky. Between deciphering the dress code, deciding if your outfit colour scheme is appropriate or just simply trying to see if you own anything that's suitable — it's a fine art.

Allow us to break down the most common dress codes to help make dressing for your next event that little bit easier.

White-tie

It is unusual for an event to request white-tie attire and this is because it is the most formal attire possible. At a white-tie event, you should opt for a formal floor-length gown. Accessorise the look with classy heels, a fancy clutch and elegant jewellery.

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Black-tie

Black-tie is slightly less formal than white-tie and is a bit more flexible. Most formal evening events will request black-tie attire. Women should wear a floor length gown, but if the event seems slightly less formal (perhaps if held during the day), an elegant cocktail style dress or jumpsuit should suffice. Heels or sophisticated pumps should be worn and the accessories should be the same as white-tie.

Formal

Another popular choice of dress-code is 'formal'. The attire for this dress code is more flexible than black-tie but still requires a sophisticated choice of outfit. Dress options remain relatively the same for women, i.e. floor length gown, cocktail dress or a jumpsuit but you can play around with accessories and colours more.

If the event is held in the daytime opt for something bright and colourful, in contrast if it is held at night choose something with a muted colour scheme that still makes a statement. A pant suit is a great idea.

READ MORE: How to recreate Princess Diana's iconic athleisure look

Cocktail

Cocktail is the middle ground of event attire. Guests can play around with their outfits a bit more with this dress code. Cocktail is a popular dress code choice as it aims for the balance between sophisticated and comfortable. Women can choose between knee-length, tea-length or midi dresses paired with a sophisticated shoe of choice.

This kind of attire is perfect for an event held during the day or a cocktail-style event.

Semi-formal or smart casual

Choosing what to wear to a semi-formal or smart casual event will depend on what time of day the event is taking place. For an evening event with this dress code opt for darker and more sophisticated colours. In contrast, if the event is taking place in the day you should choose something with a lighter colour scheme.

Dresses below the knees or a blouse with pants or a skirt is perfect — anything floor length is too formal. You can play around with footwear as well; formal flats, a nice pair of wedges or heels are perfect.

READ MORE: 7 ways to style a black blazer (AKA the ultimate wardrobe staple)

Casual

Events that are held in more relaxed locations (think a beach wedding) may request a simple and casual dress code. In this instance, jeans and a t-shirt are still too casual but something like a nice summer dress is totally appropriate. Dressy sandals or wedge heels are a good choice of footwear. Less is more!