Decode that Dress Code
SEMI-FORMAL
This dress code can apply to anything from milestone birthday and anniversary parties to end-of-year office soirees, and is usually more formal than smart-casual. Why not go for a stylish top with dressy jeans or a formal dress with ballet pumps.
SMART-CASUAL
Smart-casual is probably the way most of the world dresses to work, and can be worn when attending daytime shindigs and smaller birthday parties. Sexy Venus thinks a dress-shirt with elegant accessories will be more than suitable.
CASUAL
Anything goes really. Your host wants you to be comfortable and to come as you are, but don’t be too comfortable. Whip out a stylish jeans and flat shoes or sneakers, and if you want to add a little flair, a dinner jacket or linen blazer will do just fine.
BLACK TIE
Black tie is sometimes also regarded as formal. If you're attending a charity ball you’ve got to get yourself a long 'little black dress' or a glamorous, formal dress.
WHITE TIE
The most formal of dress codes is reserved for a night at the opera or state dinners where men are required to wear bowties and waistcoats. Sexy Venus recommends mid-calf dresses or ball gowns and white gloves. No short skirts or dresses.
COCKTAIL
This dress code is pretty self-explanatory and will apply to dressy, fun parties. Now is the time to break out the long or short evening wear, but on a hot summer's night wear a short cocktail dress and a pair of gorgeous heels.
FESTIVE
This depends on the season or public holiday and is quite transitional. Festive can mean anything from coordinating colours that match the season to Santa Claus hats, but it really depends on your own taste. Choose something semi-formal and glam it up with your style – whether you like bright colours, big accessories or silly shoes.
