More recently, the word “dress code” was new and completely unfamiliar to us. Now we are increasingly faced with events that require a certain form of clothing. Вlact Тie, Semi-formal, Casual - all these mysterious codes are becoming more familiar to us.
If you are lucky enough to receive an invitation to an official reception, ball or presentation, you should pay special attention to your appearance. In the invitation card you may find a mysterious abbreviation in English, for example, black tie or smart casual. Only an initiate is able to decipher such signs. Ignoring the dress code is a sign of disrespect for the hosts and organizers of the celebration. How not to lose face and dress accordingly? In this article, we will help you understand the intricacies of the dress code.
Universal rules
- The invitation card may contain the French abbreviation RSVP, it stands for “Réponse S"il Vous Plait.” Translated, this means “Please reply.” This means that you will need to contact the organizers of the event and tell them whether you accept their invitation. Reply can be given orally or in writing. Ignoring this request is considered a gross violation of etiquette.
- If the invitation does not specify that you must come with your spouse, you should attend the event alone. Business meetings, as a rule, do not involve the presence of a significant other. And it is customary to attend concerts, balls, theater premieres and charity events with an escort.
- In winter and autumn, guests' clothing and shoes should be several shades darker than in summer and spring.
- For daytime events you should take accessories made of suede and leather, and for evening events - silk, satin or brocade.
- It is better to give preference natural fabrics, synthetics usually look cheap.
- And the most important rule: it is better to look too strict than to look cheeky.
Types of dress code
In Great Britain, the ancestor of this concept, a convenient system of dress codes has developed. Conventionally, they can be divided into four groups:
- Formal – for special occasions;
- Business – for business meetings;
- Cocktail – for informal social events;
- Casual – for everyday life.
Each of these groups includes several types of dress codes. Let's look at them in more detail.
White Tie
If the card says White Tie, it means you are invited to at least a reception at the embassy or to the presentation of an award, and no lower than the Nobel Prize. Even the Oscars have a less formal Black Tie dress code.
Literally every point of a men's suit is spelled out in White Tie's strict regulations, so it is simply impossible to make a mistake when choosing an outfit. You just need to strictly follow the rules. A man must be in a tailcoat and... The tailcoat can only be black, other colors are not allowed. Underneath it is worn a white vest with three buttons, which must be fully buttoned. A mandatory accessory is a white bow tie or scarf; it is advisable to include white gloves and a pocket watch in the outfit. If you want to feel like a real English dandy, take a thin cane with you.
It is somewhat more difficult to choose a woman’s outfit, because there are many more styles of evening dresses than classic men’s tailcoats. A woman is given the right to choose her own style, she just needs to remember that it should be floor length. In other details, amateur performance is excluded: loose hair is not allowed, it must be styled, lips and eyes must be painted, and hands must be covered with long gloves. You can throw a fur cape over your shoulders. Special attention you need to pay attention to jewelry - the stones in them must be real, costume jewelry is not allowed. You need to take a small clutch with you.
Black Tie
This type of dress code is no less formal, but more common. This is the style of festive receptions, weddings and theater premieres.
He instructs men to wear a tuxedo - a jacket with satin lapels and a collar, trousers of the same fabric and a black bow tie. The bow tie must be tied, and not just attached to the shirt. You should choose classic shoes - Oxfords or Derbys. They must be from genuine leather, patent leather shoes are not allowed.
Women must wear long evening dresses to such events. For less formal receptions, you can wear cocktail dresses that cover your knees. Jewelry is also welcome, but you can get by with expensive jewelry. The only acceptable footwear option at Black Tie events is heels. The outfit should look as noble, sophisticated and elegant as possible.
Cocktail
The cocktail dress code implies less strictness and a degree of formality. However, it also has a number of nuances that need to be taken into account. Event level - social reception or buffet on the occasion of the conclusion of the contract.
Men can choose a classic dark suit and replace the black bow tie with a bright one or abandon it in favor of a tie. The main rules of the cocktail dress code for men: keep the bottom button of the jacket undone, stick out the starched cuffs about two centimeters from the sleeves, and wear socks several shades darker than the trousers. Do not forget that when crossing your legs, your naked body should not be visible.
For the fair sex, the most suitable option is a cocktail dress. They are quite elegant, but not so pretentious and flashy. Typically, these outfits do not have sleeves or a collar, making them less formal. They are not burdened with various decorations and draperies, but due to expensive fabrics they look very elegant. For sewing cocktail dresses usually silk, velvet, satin or chiffon are used. Shoes should also be high heels.
Business Best
This dress code is most often found at important business meetings and official receptions. He says that the outfit should be stylish, strict, neat, and at the same time emphasize your status.
The stronger half of humanity should come to such meetings in a dark suit, a white shirt with cufflinks and a nice tie. Shoes must be black.
Women can wear light-colored suits and white blouses. As for footwear, it is better to give preference to pumps with low heels. Don't forget about stockings or tights - your legs shouldn't be bare even in the summer heat.
Smart Business
This dress code is more casual and less formal. It is much more practical, convenient and brighter than the previous one.
Men are allowed to choose various colors suits, bright accessories and ties. But you need to know moderation in everything - in a yellow suit with green stripes you will look out of place. It is better to opt for neutral colors.
The same applies to female uniform clothes. Business women can wear office dresses and suits. Bright accessories will help to dilute the look a little.
Business Casual
This semi-formal style is casual and practical. It allows you to wear comfortable office clothes. You just have to remember that in some companies, appearing in the same outfit twice in a row is a sign of bad taste. 
Men can wear trousers with a shirt, vest, pullover, polo. Women - suits, skirts, trousers, blouses, jackets, polos, long shorts, capris, turtlenecks and sweaters. Colors should be moderate and neutral.
Casual
Dress code Casual – free style of clothing. It will be appropriate at corporate parties, nightclubs and cafes. When choosing an outfit, you need to be guided by the nature of the event. This is the only dress code that allows you to wear jeans.
Simple, casual clothing is encouraged: jeans or other trousers, shoes or sneakers, a nice shirt and sweater. Women can wear skirts, dresses, shoes or ballet flats.
Smart Casual
The smart casual dress code combines business and casual style. It provides a person with greater freedom in choice, but provides certain frameworks, thanks to which it is possible to maintain a professional image. This style contains elements of casual lightness and traditional rigor of office style. In some companies where standards are officially established appearance employees are allowed to look less strict on Friday. On this day, you can safely show up to work in smart casual clothes. 
The business world dictates its own rules of behavior for business people. Success often depends not only on professionalism, but also on the ability to create a favorable impression of oneself. Knowledge of corporate etiquette and men's business dress code is one of the conditions for forming the image of a business person.
For a man in business, it is important how he presents himself. Competent speech, friendly smile, good manners create a reputation as a person you can trust. Particular attention in office etiquette is paid to the appearance of a business man, because the entire corporation is judged by the appearance of an employee.
For work, attending events, clothing of a certain style is required. There are strict etiquette rules when choosing a suit for formal and informal events. The men's business dress code is characterized by conservatism.
The business dress code, in accordance with the rules of etiquette, is divided into formal, semi-official And informal. It is important to understand what is appropriate to wear during the day and what in the evening, what colors are preferable in a men's suit.
Formal dress code
It is a mistaken belief that any classic black suit and tie corresponds to formal business attire.
A formal dress code represents office etiquette that is appropriate for visiting special occasions a certain level. It also has titles Formal, Full formal, Full dress or Formal attire . This dress code came to Russia from Great Britain, where a formal style of clothing is accepted for events of extreme importance:
- at official meetings in diplomatic circles;
- at royal receptions or a reception with the Prime Minister;
- at special awards ceremonies, such as the Nobel Prize;
- at a charity ball.
The choice of formal clothing depends on the time of day at which the event is held and is subject to strict regulations. For daily use, in accordance with etiquette, select Morning Dress , and for the evening - White-Tie . It is easier for a man to choose an outfit than for a woman. There are strict regulations.
Men's formal suit for before 17:00 includes a tailcoat, light vest and crisp white shirt. Dark patent leather shoes complete the look. Socks are matched to match the trousers.
Evening formal dress code is the strictest of all. For men's attire, a double-breasted black tailcoat is chosen, which is never buttoned. A white bowtie instead of a classic tie is required according to etiquette. An evening suit is complemented by a strictly buttoned vest, which should also be white. A dark vest is not acceptable. White gloves and a cane are also advisable. You cannot wear a wristwatch with a tailcoat; according to etiquette, a pocket watch on a chain is required. In modern Russia there are no events that require White-Tie.
Semi-formal dress code
The semi-formal business dress code is intended for going to, or visiting the theater. Of course, this is not everyday wear. This outfit is appropriate according to etiquette at a wedding or graduation party. This style of clothing is also called Semi-formal, Smoking, Smoking Le . There are two types of semi-formal men's suit - Black Tie And .
Stroller is chosen for daytime. A men's suit consists of a tuxedo (jacket with lapels and a satin collar) in gray or black, a gray tie and a blue-gray vest.
Black Tie is intended for evening time. A black tuxedo with a classic cut is a necessary attribute of this dress code. For semi-formal business style A black or dark blue butterfly would be suitable. The bow tie must be tied and not pinned to the collar. A white shirt and black shoes with thin soles will complement the look. If you don’t have a tuxedo in your wardrobe, but it is indicated on the invitation, then you can wear an evening suit. An important note: according to etiquette, a bow tie is inappropriate with a suit, so choose a classic tie.
Business dress code
Business style, called and Business Attire , is an informal male dress code. This style is welcome when you need to attend negotiations or an interview. A prerequisite for such situations is a business suit.
The color of a men's suit varies from black to light striped. The shade is selected depending on the time of day. The main thing is that the outfit matches the official setting and does not distract attention from the business process.
The business dress code also includes light-colored shirts and a tie. - real art. The wider the shoulders of a man's jacket, the narrower the tie. The tie is chosen a tone darker than the shirt. In business, preference is given to plain ties with a discreet pattern. Not acceptable prints or a large stripe.
Men's clothing in the Business Attire style is neat and speaks of status and prestige.
Corporate dress code
Corporate Casual – corporate dress code reflecting the style of the organization. Every successful company in business requires its employees to observe etiquette when choosing office clothes.
In the legal and banking fields, Corporate Casual is particularly strict. An expensive suit for employees of these companies is a symbol of the stability and reliability of the company. A separate clause of the employment contract may stipulate the specifics of the corporate style. For example, mandatory branded ties with the company logo. Failure to comply with the agreement leads to fines and sanctions.
A cocktail party is a reception at home or a meeting in a restaurant or gallery. The duration of the event is about three hours. Guests will enjoy a buffet where drinks and appetizers are served. The cocktail party setting requires that a men's suit be in keeping with the classic business style.
Business meetings, exhibitions or presentations are often held under the guise of a cocktail event. For office-type meetings, there is a specific dress code, for which a classic-style black or dark blue suit is important. According to etiquette, a shirt must have long sleeves and cuffs for cufflinks.
If it is a social event, then it is allowed to wear a jacket of light colors and a loose cut. A classic tie can be replaced neckerchief. To look stylish, you can complement your look with expensive watches and cufflinks. If there is no tie, then top button needs to be unfastened.
The level of formality of an event can be determined by the invitation. Invitations to high-level events are sent by sending a letter or postcard. The clothing format must be indicated. An invitation to a cocktail party in an informal home environment can be received by phone. Strict adherence to etiquette when choosing a suit is not required.
- the most democratic style of business clothing for every day. In the office, at negotiations, at a conference or at a meeting of friends, things that comply with this dress code would be appropriate.
Men are allowed to freely combine the details of their office suit. You can combine things different colors and drawings. For example, a sports jacket with classic trousers, a shirt with a knitted sleeveless vest.
Business etiquette at Business Casual permits fitted shirts with stiff collars in classic shades and patterns. The color range is from white to light blue. Bright multi-colored shirts do not fit this style according to etiquette.
The image of a business person will be complemented by slightly tapered chinos or khaki trousers with a loose fit or classic trousers. Most companies do not allow jeans to be worn as office attire.
In this etiquette style, a jacket is not a mandatory element of a men's business suit. If necessary, for negotiations, wear an English sports jacket or a blazer in dark shades.
Style very young. It appeared about ten years ago. There are a sufficient number of companies in the world that do not attach much importance to a formal business suit. The appearance of employees may not be too formal, but there are certain etiquette standards when choosing an outfit for everyday work.
Each country has its own smart casual dress code. Smart Casual combines classic style and fashionable things. Particular attention is paid to the combination of colors in clothing. There are formal and informal versions of Smart Casual based on etiquette.
Associated with the business dress code is a formal, more strict option. It includes chinos or corduroy trousers, classic shirt with a collar, jacket or tweed jacket. The outfit is complemented with comfortable shoes. Jeans, T-shirts, sneakers or sandals are not allowed. Office clothes in this fashionable direction can be stylish.
Casual
Casual wear in format Casual differs in comfort and practicality. This casual style does not apply to the dress code.
Accessories
The image of a business person is formed by accessories, which, according to the rules of business etiquette, must be distinguished by rigor, elegance and high quality. They are able to emphasize style and place the necessary accents in a man’s image. The main accessories needed by a successful businessman are glasses, a hat, cufflinks, gloves, a handkerchief and a cane umbrella. You need to know how to properly combine these items with a business suit and with each other according to etiquette.
The first impression of both the person and the company in which he works depends on his appearance. A competent choice of business clothes will give you confidence and will not allow you to find yourself in an uncomfortable situation.
Following Western fashion today, the concept of a dress code is increasingly popularized in post-Soviet countries. But many have no idea that there are certain types and rules that must be followed. European companies quite often hold corporate events with a mandatory dress code and indicate in it, for example, the type “White Tie”, and there are often cases when mid-level employees actually come to a company holiday in a white tie. In reality, everything is much more complicated.
So, today 7 types of dress codes are quite often used, namely White Tie, Black Tie, Creative Black Tie, Cocktail, Business Formal, Business Casual, Smart Casual. Of course, if you are a respected person in the company and come in a regular walking jacket to a festive event with a strict dress code, you will not be kicked out, but they will look at you as a “black sheep,” that’s for sure.
White Tie
It is the strictest and most formal of all dress codes. If you see this inscription, then be kind enough to look for a tailcoat or tuxedo. In this case, the men's blouse should be snow-white, since the upcoming event is apparently of utmost importance. Women, in this case, must wear a long evening dress with open shoulders and without unnecessary details. An appropriate addition is required female beauty expensive jewelry, preferably diamonds. For accessories, you can take a minadiere or a solid clutch, which also wouldn’t hurt long gloves, if they are appropriate for the dress.
Black Tie
A simplified and less conservative version of the “White Tie” dress code. It is quite often used at corporate events and holidays in our region. In the “black” dress code, women can relax a little and get creative. Despite the fact that the length of the dress still remains “floor-length,” it can now be decorated with lace, crystals or embroidery. The most important thing here is to stick to soft colors: black, brown, blue. Well, if you have something to say, then for such cases the color red is sometimes allowed. Jewelry may no longer have “sparkling” stones, limiting itself only to products made of precious metals.
Creative Black Tie
The mistake of many is that when they see the word “Creative”, they come up with some kind of creative outfit. Actually this is not true. In this case, at your event, the strict “Black Tie” framework is simply removed, and instead of a long floor-length dress, you are allowed to choose something extraordinary, but at the same time conservative. For example: dresses entirely made of lace and embroidery, dresses with prints or tuxedo dresses. You can also look at suits or overalls. But accessories can be given a certain touch of creativity, for example: bright shoes, unusual clutches or fancy jewelry will be in place. Overall it should still represent elegance rather than casual.
Cocktail
When people talk about a "Cocktail" dress code, it means that men can relax a little and wear fitted suits that flatter their figure. Women can also leave long dresses and choose an outfit medium length or slightly above the knees. Colors can be dark, bright or pastel. Jewelry is encouraged here. Large watches, jewelry and even unusual shoes will only complement the look. The outfit looks less festive, but more comfortable and great for dates.
Business Formal
The very word “Business” already indicates that they adhere to a business style of clothing. This is true! This dress code is often established at prestigious conferences or serious business meetings. The black and white style is not essential, but it is the most successful and distracts from the important thoughts of the interlocutor. Women can choose not only business suits with trousers or a skirt, but also medium-length dresses, which should be strictly tailored to their figure. The best accessory in this case would be expensive bag with a minimum of details, but if there is none, then you can get by with a document folder. Mid-heeled pumps, as well as vintage earrings or a brooch, will complement the look well.
Business Casual
This is a simplified version of business clothing, which is often installed in the offices of prestigious companies. Of course, jeans are out of the question. The key word here is “business”, which means that the image should still remain strict, these are: fitted business suits and dresses of medium length, but the colors can be different and even white, the main thing is that they do not distract from work and do not go out of style ensemble. Blouses can also be like with short sleeve, and with a long one, and the print is allowed not only in one color, but also in patterns or stripes. For footwear, both open-toed shoes and ankle boots are allowed, and for accessories, you can even experiment with bright jewelry.
Smart Casual
This dress code is perfect for meeting friends in a cafe, shopping, or even business meetings in a relaxed atmosphere. This is a kind of collective image of French women, so it personifies both elegance and freedom. In this version, it will be easier to name what cannot be worn with such a dress code. So, these are: torn or distressed jeans, short shorts, loose T-shirts with frivolous slogans. The image is convenient because it can easily be made unique, thanks to jewelry or jewelry.
Dress code for men: Business Best - what does this mean and how should a man dress if this is indicated in the invitation. Dress code etiquette for men on the website portal - in new publications of the project of Kyiv fashionista Yulia Dobrovolskaya “Ideal wardrobe”.
Dress code Business Best. Men
in the photo:Yulia Dobrovolskaya
Nurtured on a diet of caviar, nurtured by thoroughbred manners, represented by cold secular aristocracy, dress code Business Best is the quintessence of the best that can be.
In the lobbies of luxury hotels, in business classes of the most prestigious airlines, in private club restaurants, round table negotiations at the international level, in embassies, in James Bond films and, of course, in the dreams of every man seeking to taste the sweet and coveted word success - this is where the dress code resides Business Best.
Business Best (literally from English - the best for business, the best business) this is a business ceremonial and weekend wardrobe group. Wardrobe and accessory items of this dress code should carry the feeling and flavor of the much-desired well-being and success, harmony and attractiveness of material power.
Dress code for men Business Best. Costume
A perfectly fitting classic suit in blue or black, made from the most expensive natural fabric. Thin stripes and a double-breasted jacket are acceptable. One of the attributes Business Best is a tailor made suit (made to order from a tailor). A high-end ready-made suit will not have the same reputation as a custom-made suit. A vest or cashmere cardigan/jumper are optional items that can be included in the work during the cold season.
Dress code for men Business Best. Shirt
A formal white shirt is the perfect match for an impeccable suit. For extra solemnity, choose a model with cufflinks. It’s good when it’s a voluminous French cuff.
Dress code for men Business Best . Accessories
Shoes
Black, well-groomed Oxford or Derby shoes.
Belt
A formal belt, 3-3.5 cm wide, made of leather (matching the color and texture of the shoes) with a neat buckle.
Read more about how to choose a belt and how to care for a belt on portal 2 queens. ru.
Tie
Code of Impeccable Dress Code Business Best fully applicable to ties. An elegant silk tie with a perfectly straight knot makes you pay attention to the well-groomed portrait area and involuntarily agree with everything that the speaker of the format says Business Best.
Cufflinks
When discussing the topic of dress codes, willy-nilly we have to appeal to English terminology. Regarding cufflinks, I want to use a noun eye-catcher (literally from English - something that attracts the eye) - an eye trap. Small and so influential when peeking out from the sleeve of a suit, cufflinks capture the attention of your interlocutor in a matter of seconds. You need to use this! You can read more about cufflinks in a man’s wardrobe on portal 2 queens. ru.
Watch
Hours matter. This status accessory is a demonstration of financial power, the manifestation of which is important in the dress code Business Best . Choose classic model with a leather bracelet (the color of the bracelet should match the color of the leather of the accessory elements of the image).
Business accessories
Leather briefcase, fountain pen made of precious metal in a special case made of mahogany, opened with varnish, a purse, a case for documents - the details necessary for the full-fledged work of a modern person, and the format Business Best - the most suitable for introducing luxury accessory elements into life.
In fairness, it should be noted that Business Best has the right to an individual approach. If a man’s wardrobe does not include a cashmere suit, made by a tailor, and does not have a pen with a gold nib in stock, this does not mean at all that the man is not suitable for the format. Business Best.
Let each level have its own “Best for Business”: add the adjective BEST to each wardrobe and accessory item of a potential set and form your basis for the dress code Business Best.
A mid-level employee, regardless of income level, is required to have in his wardrobe arsenal a suit for a special (THE VERY) occasion in which he will go to important business, potentially life-changing negotiations. Perhaps at first this suit will not have as much status as we would like. But, with each advancement up the corporate ladder, the level of the suit Business Best will grow.
Got a promotion? Get ready to buy a new suit!
Signed a lucrative contract? Treat yourself to purchasing status accessories!
Good luck!
photo from websites: tailormadelondon. com, thewizardofaahs. com, 9 penshop. com, raffaello-network. com, engravably. com, thedynamicdesigngroup. com, horloger-paris. com, oftenwatches. com
Read about the dress code for Business Traditional men on the portal 2queens.ru - in the following materials from Yulia Dobrovolskaya’s “Ideal Wardrobe” project!
Casual style is extremely diverse; it can be worn in absolutely any society and in any setting. It has already firmly established itself in the office environment, displacing the monotony of business suits, and in everyday active life it has no equal. The Casual dress code does not have strict boundaries, but is determined only by the situation and a person’s desire to dress to his liking.
Let's look at the different styles of Casual and their features!
All other types of Casual can be combined into after 5 casual, which means that clothes in such styles are worn in their free time from work.
The next popular type is . Here restrictions are lifted almost completely, since “street everyday life” is favorable to everything that brings comfort and looks beautiful. Street casual is a slight casualness and an abundance of spectacular bright colors. The absolute freedom of expression in this style has led to an incredible variety of combinations of clothing and accessories that can be seen on people walking. It is based on the personal preferences of a particular person.
City casual or Urban casual - fashionable urban everyday life. In its content, this style is very similar to Sport casual - the same layering and deliberate negligence, but City casual has more elegance. This is the direction chosen for ordinary life many Hollywood stars, for example, Sarah Jessica Parker, so we can safely say that City casual has a great future.
Unlike the types listed above, Dressy and Cocktail casual are elegant clothes for special occasions. Dressy casual translates as “dressy everyday life,” and this is true. Dress code casual in this style is suitable for attending semi-formal events such as a graduation party, a gala dinner with family or friends, exhibitions, etc. The simplest and most affordable option is to wear classic jeans with a beautiful silk blouse, complementing the outfit with minor accessories or tying a light scarf around your neck.
The choice of clothing color to create a Dressy casual look has no frames, so you can wear a bright dress, but not longer than the knee and without a too deep neckline. The same applies to Cocktail casual style - the dress should be comfortable and elegant, quite simple, but tasteful. Cocktail casual is preferable to wear to informal parties, when you want to look smart, but not sacrifice your own comfort. A short dress, tunic, shirt dress, stylish skirt, trousers with a bright blouse are suitable - all without excessive pomp.
