What to wear to (Pretty Much Every Occasion)

What do weddings, baptisms, and networking events have in common? It can be confusing to decide what to wear. The venue, invitation formality, weather conditions, and what the other guests plan to wear all play a part in what you wear to these events. There are some guidelines that you can follow for sartorial guidance. Remember that dress code rules are more like guidelines, with a few exceptions, like not wearing white to weddings.

Baptism, Bar Mitzvah, or another religious ceremony

A pretty daytime dress in a floral or petal print or a suit with feminine accents and underpinnings is a good choice. Avoid anything too short or clingy. Bring a blazer or jacket, and a sweater to cover up any sleeveless pieces. Wear a cocktail dress, dressy pants, or a wrap for the reception.

Black-Tie Weddings or Charity Gala

Think tuxedos and shimmery fabrics with ornate details. Although etiquette rules have softened on the issue of length, a tea-length or floor-length dress is your best option. While a column or A-line gown is the most elegant, you can also wear a stylish, tailored, formal suit. Elevate your look now with beautiful jewelry, great shoes, and a great haircut.

You can be more relaxed if the invitation says “Black tie optional”. If you don’t have a long dress, a formal cocktail dress that is at least knee-length is acceptable.

Cocktail Parties, Engagement Parties, and Most Weddings

These fancy events require a cocktail dress code, although black-tie parties are more formal. You can’t go wrong choosing a cocktail dress, a standout jewel tone, or a pastel dress. It can be paired with separates or dressy dresses.

A cocktail party can range from a high-end event for society (cue the glittery, knee-length gown from “special occasions”) to a casual gathering of friends over a plate of appetizers. Joseph Williamson, the fashion stylist, says that most cocktail parties are casual and dressy. He suggests a top with special details, a skirt, tailored pants or heels, as well as fancy flats or heels. Avoid fabrics that are too casual like denim, jersey, and chino. Avoid super-short styles. Stand with your hands together to determine if the hemline is appropriate.

Another thing to remember is that every city has its own dress code. It’s not necessary to be overly concerned about it but it is important to remember. “Cocktail attire is the same in Miami as New York, regardless of the weather variations,” Lauren A. Rothman, founder, and CEO of Style Auteur a fashion-consulting company based in Washington D.C. says.

Holiday Party, Dinner Party, or “Festive Attire Event”

These events allow you to push the boundaries of glitz, color, and style. In essence, you can wear almost any item as long as it suits the occasion and venue. A statement necklace or earrings can make a great statement. Pair it with a brightly colored dress, a slim jumpsuit, or a fun top with palazzo pants or a midi skirt. You get bonus points if you wear textured embellishments like feathers and tassels.

Outdoor, day, or more casual wedding

If you’re planning on having an outdoor wedding, choose a flowing sundress, a glamorous maxi, or a chic shift dress. While black is not prohibited, lighter shades and more vibrant patterns are often more appropriate. You should also choose shades that complement the natural surroundings such as blues, greens, and yellows. Flat soles are best for events where you will be on a lawn or at the beach.

Rothman says that day weddings are more casual and should be avoided if you want to avoid wearing anything sequined or beaded. Opt for a knee-length gown in cotton. In warmer regions or weather, you can opt to wear strapless styles or open-toed shoes.

Bridal Shower and Baby Shower

Showers are best when you have a flattering, feminine, and fitted dress. You can wear flats, heels, or whatever you feel most comfortable in. If it is cold outside, consider cute booties. Remember that bridal showers are similar to weddings in that white is reserved for the bride unless the hosts or host specify otherwise. Black is not prohibited, but it should be more chic than solemn.

Barbecue, Family Get-Together, or Birthday Party

You can be casual with jeans and a fun top. Add some stylish sandals, flats, or sneakers for a laid-back look. You can relax with a relaxed vibe, but don’t let the yoga pants, graphic tops, and worst-for-wear shoes get in your way. Take a cue from the host. If they are always dressed to impress, then you should put effort into your appearance.

Take a Cruise

The good news is that most cruise lines will have a website explaining what you should pack and the specific dress codes for each cruise ship.

For a warm-weather cruise bring the same clothes you would wear for a warm beach vacation. This includes shorts and breezy shirts, sundresses and skirts, as well as bathing suits, swimsuits, coverups, sandals, and sneakers. If you are going on a cold-weather cruise, bring a variety of clothes that you would wear for a day in a fall or winter getaway. You should be comfortable and at ease, but also aware that you are not alone.

There are many restaurants on cruise ships that offer a variety of dining options. These range from casual (no need to wear bathing suits, bare feet, or ripped jeans), to formal and smart casual. If there is only one main dining area, the dress code can change throughout the cruise. For example, casual on the first night and formal on the second night. You should bring a variety of dinner outfits for each occasion. A nice top with flats or sandals paired with a nice sundress, or a knee-length sundress is a great choice for casual dining. For a more casual night, dress up your look with nicer pants, elegant jewelry, and chunky heels. For formal evenings, fancy tea-length or floor-length dresses and heels are perfect. You can dress up for formal nights if you are on a cruise that includes a black-tie meal.

Interview for a Job

It should be professional, clean, and appropriate. As a job interview outfit, pumps and a tailored suit (pants/skirt) or a simple black or navy gown are great choices. These are the most common outfits for corporate companies. However, if you’re looking for a job in a more casual industry like a startup, design company, or magazine, you can be more creative. It can be distracting to appear too trendy or casual. Avoid jingly or distracting jewelry and denim (yes, even if the dress code for the company is casual, you should still be more dressed up than those who work there).