WOMEN
Right about now you're probably receiving invitations to different holiday parties; corporate, family, friends.. you name it! With different holiday parties comes different crowds and environments, and thereby also different dress codes. It can be rather tricky to figure out what each dress code requires, which is why we put together this guide to help you.
Business Formal
You're likely to see this dress code at business lunches or daytime semi-formal events. Whenever you see business formal, it's time you put on a nice tailored suit, shirt and tie.
Business Casual
Pair your chinos with a shirt and you're good to go. This dress code is simple and straight forward. Though do remember that even though the word casual is in the dress code, it does not mean that sneakers and jeans are acceptable. If you feel the party is more on the high-scale end, wear a suit and shirt but leave the tie at home.
Blue checked 100% Cotton Shirt & Red 100% Cotton Shirt
If you're feeling more adventurous; pair your chinos with a velvet blazer to stand out among the crowd, while still respecting the dress code.
Cocktail
For a cocktail dress code it's appropriate you wear a dark suit (grey or blue), paired with a shirt and tie. If you want a more modern look (less traditional), switch the tie for a bow tie!
Festive
The Festive dress code is almost the same as the Cocktail one; only difference being you're expected to wear something...festive/holiday-themed. You can go as big or small as you want; wear a holiday themed shirt if you want to really make an impression, but a holiday-themed accessories (like tie or cuff links) are enough.
Champagne Cufflinks or Silver Christmas Tree Cufflinks
Black Tie
If you see the dress code labeled as Black Tie, it's time to put on your black tuxedo. Don't forget the white french cufff shirt, cufflinks and bow tie!
Black Tie Optional
Very similar to Black Tie, Black Tie Optional gives you slightly more freedom to choose your outfits; pick between a tuxedo or a dark suit and bow tie.
Creative Black Tie
If you see this dress code, you can have some fun. Play with colors and avoid the traditional "black and white" tuxedo look- pair your tuxedo with a black shirt and a red bow tie.
A trick to remember is you can think of this dress code as the slightly more trendy version of the traditional Black Tie Dress code.
Enjoy the Holidays!