Dress Codes Explained

Dress codes can be hard. While they can help you nail down a specific style, they also contribute to the question, what is suitable for the theme? We believe the number one rule should be to think creatively. You should always dress for the setting, meaning and be open-minded to the theme of the event. While a beach event look should feel effortless, it doesn’t mean you can’t wear a delicate gown. It is also important to do some research. Have a look of what the venue looks like through a quick and take note of the colours and the décor to really help you pin down your look, and as always, consider your own personal style.

If an invite is giving you outfit anxiety, don't stress. We have put together our guide below to help you style outfits for the most common dress codes. Whether you are off to a party or a wedding, we have you covered.

White Tie

The white dress code is often what we see on the red carpet (think the Met Gala or the Oscars). White tie is also sometimes the dress code for a very fancy wedding. If you have been invited to a white tie event - think full length gowns and sometimes classy long gloves. In terms of hair and accessories, you would wear you hair in a bun and you could style this with the chicest of hair accessories to finish your oh so glamourous look.

Black Tie

We know, this theme sounds a little intimidating, however it really isn’t. A black tie dress code is like white tie but without the sometimes mandatory gloves and the up do look (although you can definitely still have a fabulous up style at your black tie event). It is your chance to have some fun and explore different patterns, cuts and colours that you wouldn’t wear to a usual event. It is suggested to wear a floor-length gown but a jumpsuit or even a fancy cocktail dress will also do the trick. This dress code is often on the invitations of weddings and ceremonies. Also don't forget the diamond earrings for black tie.

Cocktail Dress

Cocktail attire is one of the most popular dress code choices. It’s a balance between elegant and comfortable and allows room for all types of styles, while keeping classy and polished. Cocktail is also a perfect theme for wedding guests to follow. Midi and tea length or knee-length dresses are perfect for this type of occasion either with heels, nice wedges or formal flats. This is another theme where you can explore different fabrics and colours.

Party Dress

Break out your party dresses, sparkles, fun colours and bold cuts. This theme will see you exploring a range of different styles and can totally depend on your own individual taste. With trendy accessories, you’ll have put together a chic look in no time. Party dresses are perfect for formals and special occasions. There are no limits to what outfit you choose to rock here!

Smart Casual

We suggest you dress with the aim to look polished with some relaxed, fashion-forward touches. Smart casual is the dress code for day time or more casual events. Think your personal style but elevated. Dress up a pair of classic pants or dress down a cute little black dress. This dress code can be styled up or down with a number of accessories such as a fun blouse, cute shoes, jewellery and bags. A casual dress is always a staple that everyone needs in their closet.

The Wedding Suite

Whether you have been invited to a wedding or you are part of the wedding party or you may even be the bride - either way you need the perfect dress for every wedding dress code. We will give you the run down of the perfect styles and accessories to wear for every kind of wedding goer and every kind of wedding dress code. Bridal jewellery and hair accessories are also important for that everlasting finishing touch or as mementos to gift to a bride's bridesmaids.

Bride

Your wedding dress can vary depending on the type of wedding you are having, the location of the event and the season. You could be after a tradition yet modern bridal wedding dress or a second wedding dress for the after party. Your whole wedding dress collection must be ready to go for all the fun and exciting events in the lead up to the big day - from the bridal shower and the rehearsal dinner to the bachelorette party. Whether you are eloping with your beau or having a destination wedding on the Amalfi Coast, you dress must fit the brief and speak to your true personal style.