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What does cocktail—or any dress code—even mean anymore?
Cocktail. Hip cocktail. Smart casual. Or—our favorite—an invite reads “no dress code,” only for you to get there and find everyone dressed to the nines. Decoding the ever-evolving dress code can be daunting—especially in the midst of holiday festivities—both as a guest who doesn’t want to stand out or as a host who wants their guests to look sharp.
But knowing how to navigate these “rules” can save social fluency. “There is still protocol, and you stick out when you don’t follow it,” says DressCode Style owner and professional stylist Maribeth Geraci, adding that, even though dress codes have gotten a lot more casual, four generations make up the workplace—at least two of which still care about dress codes. Clearly worth keeping in mind while selecting that OOTD.
“We’ve been so obsessed with everyone being their authentic self—which I’m all about,” says Geraci. “But being your authentic self doesn’t mean being inappropriate in a situation that has an invitation and calls for you to make a little effort.” Translation: Feeling awkward at a function with outlined attire is really on you. But rest assured you can dress the part and still feel and look authentically you.
Taboo Turns
Body modifications are becoming more common (32% of adults have a tattoo, and 22% have more than one), but does that mean piercings and tattoos are accepted at professional events? Geraci says it depends. “You have to know when and where to have them showing,” the stylist states. “Showing them is less of an issue [than before], as long as they are not offensive or distracting.”
So, when it comes to tattoos and piercings, you have to think about the arena you’re in. “Who else is in the room? Do you care about making an impact?” Geraci asks.
Formal means formal, with little room for interpretation. For women: a floor-length evening gown or your dressiest (and not too short) cocktail dress. For men, a suit or tux—and, yes, a tie is a must.
Semiformal
Formal but relaxed, semiformal sits between going to work and going to a gala. Think fun cocktail dresses, long skirts with dressy tops or the classic LBD for the ladies and button-downs, dark dress socks and ties for the gents.
Cocktail
Elegant lite—polished meets poised pizazz in the sweet spot between glam and
business casual. Think short party dresses, paired coordinates, suits or trousers and a dressy top.
This isn’t your grandma’s cocktail party. “Hip” is a clear indicator that the host cares what you wear: Trendy cocktail dresses paired with heels for women and suits for men—but fun color schemes and textures are welcome.
Business
Professional
No room for interpretation—and no accessories or bright colors. For women, matching skirts or blazers, biz-style dresses with jackets or a pantsuit. For men, a suit with matching belt and shoes is non-negotiable. Pro tip: The darker the material, the more formal the look.
Comfy meets clean and professional. “Make the pause before you walk out,” emphasizes Geraci. Ask yourself: Is this casual look still polished? Think sweaters, dark-wash denim and polos.
Comfortable but coordinated and classy—think something you would wear on a dinner date. Guys, lean into jeans without holes, polos and logo-free t-shirts under a jacket. Ladies, opt for a sundress, skirts, and lifestyle sneakers or flats. The later
the event, the dressier.
Look put-together 24/7 by keeping yourself and your clothes clean and wrinkle-free. “Make the extra step to get things tailored, and make sure you are pressed,” maintains Geraci. Translation: You don’t want to look like you just dug your duds out of a hamper. “Having a good life means making an effort, and the results are always tenfold. … You’ll shine.”
Hostess With the Mostess
If you’re hosting, have fun with the dress codes—just be sure to give your guests ample time to prepare their ‘fits (aka not day-of).
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