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Fashion language can be so confusing, but we are here to prevent any style disasters!
Fashion insiders often speak a language that’s anything but relatable. One of the fascinating examples is Swinter, which means summer plus winter. Then there are dress codes, which are much looser than in the previous decades, but they are still a thing. Understanding them won’t change your life, but it will save you from some questionable style-related decisions.
The black-tie dress code is reserved for parties that start after 6 pm, and this is the same dress code the majority of stars follow during the award season.
Men are expected to show up in black wool or ultrafine herringbone dinner jacket. Preferably, in a single-breasted one and the shirt should be made from slightly stiffer cotton fabric, with a bib detail and double cuffs. It’s a nice touch if the trousers have a single row of braid down the outside of each leg. Don’t forget the handkerchief in your pocket and clean up your shoes just before arriving at the event. It’s best to have a Black tie suit fitted, so you won’t have to worry about looking polished and sophisticated.
The etiquette for women at the black-tie parties allows much more freedom. It is acceptable for ladies to wear suits, but the trousers should be culotte styled. Also, midi and long dresses of any silhouette, color, and fabric are acceptable. Still, tight dresses and bold patterns are not recommended, especially if one part of the evening takes place at the table with dinner. Remember that a black-tie does not mean that you need to wrap yourself in black, although nothing beats a little black dress.
When it comes to accessories, a classic pair of pumps in black or nude will do the trick. Looking classy is not that hard, so remember the French rule: don’t overdo it with jewelry by removing one piece before exiting your home. A beautiful red-ish lipstick and a sleek updo will complete the glamorous look.
White tie dress code, also called full evening dress code, is the undisputed champion of formality. In the past few years, only high-profile events use it. Though it is rare and reserved mostly for royal and diplomatic ceremonies, such as balls, it’s still exciting and intriguing. White tie is also acceptable at black-tie events, but the unspoken rule is that it is rude to appear looking more refined than the host. Or to put it simply: don’t overshadow the host!
Men wear white button-down shirts with white butterfly bows and white belts and black pants, black coats, and patent black lace-up shoes. The dinner coat is worn exclusively unbuttoned, and the vest underneath is buttoned up. A white shirt should always have a collar, and cufflinks are a must. A top hat is optional, just like white gloves. Additionally, this dress code requires guests to display their medals and orders.
Women’s clothing etiquette is much more manageable, but there are a few rules. A long (ball) gown is the only choice, but the color, silhouette, and fabric are a matter of choice, just like shoulder straps. The more formal the party, the higher the chances are that bare shoulders are not allowed. It is useful to have a faux fur shrug, which you can elegantly slip over your dress. When it comes to white tie events, ladies should wear gloves above the elbow. All the jewelry, of course, goes over them. It’s also worth mentioning that pants and cocktail dresses are strictly forbidden.
Black tie events are alive in Hollywood and on wedding receptions, while you can see the examples of White tie events on late Princess Diana or The Duchess of Cambridge.
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