How to Dress Up

Allowing the Occasion to Dictate Your Style of Dress

Evaluate the event. Depending on the event, the dress code will vary whether it is stated explicitly or not. Are you going to a wedding, cocktail party, dinner party, funeral, job interview, night club, the theater, first date, luncheon/ brunch, or a formal gala? Honor the dress code and let the occasion dictate the formality of your wardrobe.

Dress appropriately. Having good clothing etiquette will allow you to look great and feel comfortable. Don’t make the mistake of wearing the wrong outfit for the occasion, like wearing a ball gown to a cocktail party or revealing clothes in a conservative culture. You need to know your colors, too. For example, it’s not appropriate to wear white to a wedding or light-colored clothes to a funeral. There is also a difference between daytime clothes and evening clothes. For the day, it’s better to wear light colors, natural-looking makeup, minimal jewelry, and low to medium heels. At night, you can go more formal and choose darker colors, heavier makeup, high heels, and glitzier accessories.

Flatter your shape and wear your best colors. Understand your body type and choose clothes with proportions that play up your best assets. Wear a particular color that looks great with your skin or hair. Dressing in clothes that look fantastic specifically on you can put you on your “A” game. It can also be helpful to consider your age when dressing up so you can choose the clothes that flatter your body best as it currently is. For example, you might find that different cuts and materials flatter you more in your forties than the styles you used to wear in your twenties.

Wear stylish, yet comfortable, attire on a first date. Often, what looks good is not comfortable and what’s comfortable is not stylish. The key is to spend time choosing the right outfit that meets both these criteria. If you wait until the last minute, you’re apt to throw anything on and then regret wearing those itchy pants or unbearably tight shoes! Remember you not only want to look good to the other person but you want to feel confident, too. The way to do that is to wear an outfit that shows your personality but that you don’t have to think about once you put it on. Keep it casual for a daytime date, and dress it up in the evening. Avoid wearing anything that’s political or offensive.

Employ good grooming. Dressing up is not just about picking the right outfit. Also take into consideration your hygiene, hair, skin, and makeup. Bathe yourself well; create a flattering hairdo, and carefully apply some makeup. You don’t need to go over the top -- groom according to the formality of the occasion.

Remember less is more. To create an elegant look, pick one feature that you want to accentuate, and keep the rest of your look simple. With your makeup, play up your eyes or lips but not both. If you start with a little black dress, try adding a statement accessory like a fancy clutch or an eye-catching necklace. The goal is to not overwhelm the look but to have each element complement the other.

Going to a Wedding as a Guest (Women)

Read the wedding invitation carefully. It’s your key to dressing appropriately on this special day. Weddings, at their heart, are serious occasions and often take place in a house of worship. If there’s any time to follow a dress code, this is it! Your attire should be appropriate, conservative and respectful. If the invite does not state a specific style of dress, then follow the “Dressy Casual” or “Semi-formal” step below, or ask someone in the wedding party; they usually know months in advance. Along with the invitation, base your attire on the season, venue and weather. Time is also important. Weddings in the evening are usually more formal than daytime ceremonies. If you don’t know the couple (perhaps you’re going as the date of a friend or family member of the betrothed), you may want to call the venue and see what dress is appropriate. Consider packing a few accessories to either dress up or dress down your outfit.

Follow the traditional rules when it comes to color. Avoid wearing white, off-white or the same color as the bridesmaids. White is a special color reserved for the bride, so the rest of us should not wear white dresses. Even if the bride isn’t wearing white, still avoid this color. It’s okay, though, to wear a patterned outfit with white mixed in. Tradition also states that guests should not wear black. However, it’s no longer considered off-limits unless specifically stated on the invitation. Don’t wear black, however, if it’s a summer, outdoor wedding held during the day. You could look out of place, not to mention the heat factor.

Base your accessories on the formality of the occasion. Keep the chunky necklaces, cocktail rings and earrings for an evening ceremony and less dramatic pieces for a daytime wedding. For your bag, a clutch purse is a terrific choice for most weddings. If you want your hands to be free, though, a purse with an elegant chain strap looks great, too.

Glam it up if the invitation says “White Tie.” Considered the most formal (think charity balls, royal events and the Academy Awards), you’re limited as to what you should or should not wear. For this ultra-chic occasion, you’re expected to wear a formal, full-length ball gown with long gloves either white or the same color as your gown. White gloves are suitable for almost any dresses. Match your gown with glamorous makeup, your finest jewelry, and an upswept, elegant hairstyle, if possible. Shoes should match your gown. Gloves are optional, but wearing them adds an extra level of formality.

Wear formal attire if the invitation says “Black Tie.” Considered the next most formal style of wedding, you can wear either a floor-length evening gown or a formal-style cocktail dress. An A-line cocktail dress in either metallic or with rich embellishments is a good choice.

Dress to impress but also for the elements if the invitation says “Beach Formal.” This invite suggests an elegant wedding on the beach so still dress up. But keep outside factors in mind. A tea-length (3 to 4 inches above the ankle) or knee-length, stylish sundress; a dressy skirt and blouse; or a dress with flat sandals with grip is appropriate. Hair and makeup can be everyday and natural. As a general rule, bathing attire should not be worn, even under your outfit unless the invite specifically states.

Find a happy-medium between casual and formal if the invitation says “Dressy Casual” or “Semi-formal.” For an evening ceremony, good choices are a long, dressy skirt with a stylish blouse or a cocktail dress (just above or at the knee), preferably made in a rich fabric like silk, satin or chiffon with beading. For a daytime ceremony, a classy sundress is perfect. Save dark colors for an evening wedding and lighter colors/fabrics for a daytime ceremony. Assume business casual if the invitation says “Casual.” Usually, casual means just about anything goes. However, unless it states on the invite, tank tops, shorts, and jeans are probably not appropriate.

Going to a Wedding as a Guest (Men)

Read the wedding invitation carefully. It’s your key to dressing appropriately on this special day. Weddings, at their heart, are serious occasions and often take place in a house of worship. If there’s any time to follow a dress code, this is it! Your attire should be appropriate, conservative and respectful. If the invite does not state a specific style of dress, then follow the “Dressy Casual” or “Semi-formal” step below, or ask someone in the wedding party; they usually know months in advance. Along with the invitation, base your attire on the season, venue and weather. The time of the ceremony is also important. Weddings in the evening often have a more formal dress code than a daytime event. If you don’t know the couple (perhaps you’re going as the date of a friend or family member of the betrothed), you may want to call the venue and see what dress is appropriate. Consider packing a few accessories to either dress up or dress down your outfit.

Dress in ultra-formal attire if the invitation says “White Tie.” Considered the most formal (think charity balls, royal events and the Academy Awards), you’re limited as to what you should or should not wear. The dress code calls for a tailcoat; white pique, formal shirt; white pique bowtie; white pique vest; matching trousers; gray or white gloves; and black, opera pumps (shoes without laces).

Wear formal attire if the invitation says “Black Tie.” Considered the next most formal dress, you are expected to wear a tuxedo. You should also wear a white, formal shirt, black bowtie, black vest or cummerbund, suspenders, and patent leather shoes. If it’s during the summer, black tuxedo trousers with a white dinner jacket are also fine. There will always be a few guests who misinterpret the invitation to simply mean “formal” and will dress in whatever they feel is dressy. A gracious host will understand. In technical terms, though, a tuxedo is the best choice for black tie events. If the invite says “Black Tie Optional, the safest choice is still a tuxedo. The hosts worded it this way because they don’t want to exclude those who can’t afford one. So if you genuinely can’t, then a dark suit and tie is just fine.

Dress to impress but also for the elements if the invitation says “Beach Formal.” This suggests an elegant wedding on the beach so still dress nice. But consider outside factors. A summer suit paired with a linen shirt (no tie required), khakis or linen pants, and sandals are just right for this kind of wedding. As a general rule, bathing attire should not be worn, even under an ensemble unless the invite specifically states.

Find a happy-medium between casual and formal if the invitation says “Dressy Casual” or “Semi-formal.” A nice suit with a tie, dark or light depending on the time of day, would be a great choice. Wear darker, more formal colors for an evening wedding. Opt for lighter fabrics and colors for a daytime fete.

Go with business casual if the invitation says “Casual.” Usually, casual means just about anything goes. However, tank tops, shorts, and jeans are probably not appropriate unless the invite specifically states. Dress pants paired with a polo or button-down shirt are good selections.

Attending a Business Conference (Women)

Assume business casual attire unless told otherwise. Most conferences these days have adopted a corporate, casual style of dress, which offers a variety of wardrobe choices. However, some limitations still apply for both genders. Make sure your attire is made from quality materials, is pressed, clean and in excellent condition. Shoes must be clean, not worn, and polished. Though your accessories can have a touch of flair, keep them limited and conservative. Also keep in mind your particular industry’s codes and standards, time of day, location, and purpose. Cover any tattoos and piercings. Athletic shoes are usually not appropriate.

Wear business colors or other colors that suit you. If you want to play it safe, opt for navy blue, black, brown or grey, which are known business colors. Match with long-sleeved, button-down, solid-colored (usually light blue or white) blouses or shirts. You don’t have to wear business colors, though. Instead, choose colors that you know are personally flattering. In fact, you may find wearing colors different from the norm attracts people to you! Avoid loud colors and patterns. For outdoor or more casual events, polo shirts are a good choice. Pack a few blazers for the inevitable air-conditioning. Bring a formal outfit just in case.

Opt for creased pants or tailored skirts made of crisp fabrics. Keep the hemline of your skirts just below the knee and not more than two inches above it. Skirts can have slits in the back but shouldn’t reveal your legs. Don’t let your undergarments and slips show. Avoid clothing that is too baggy or tight. Keep your cleavage and midriff covered, even outside conference events. Avoid wearing jeans in a business casual setting.

Select classic pieces, not trendy. Wear a stylish, leather wristwatch. It looks great when resting your arm on the board table! Combine smart trousers or a pencil skirt with a well-fitting jacket. Wear low-heeled, neutral-colored shoes. Comfortable heels save your back, and a light-colored shoe easily matches other colors in your wardrobe. EXPERT TIP Alena Le Blanc Alena Le Blanc Personal Stylist Alena Le Blanc is the Personal Stylist and the Founder of Le Blanc Label. Based in San Francisco, California, Le Blanc Label is the leading personal stylist brand for sustainable style transformations. Alena and her team specialize in seasonal wardrobe refreshes, closet edits, styling for special events, travel, photoshoots, and general personal needs. Alena has been featured in podcasts including EMPOWERED BY WMN, I Am Fearless, and Mind Power Meets Mystic. Alena received her BFA in Fashion and Apparel Design from the Academy of Art University. Alena Le Blanc Alena Le Blanc Personal Stylist "Quiet Luxury" is a fashion trend that values quality and craftsmanship over flashy designs. The trend emphasizes minimalism and timeless pieces of the highest quality. Examples of quiet luxury include a well-made cashmere sweater, a perfectly tailored blazer, or a simple white cotton shirt.

Stand out in a way that highlights you and your business. Stay within the business casual realm style of dress, but add unique touches that make you who you are. Wear interesting but stylish accessories. Instead of long-sleeved tops, go with ¾-sleeves. Consider not wearing black or cardigan sweaters. Both tend to be overdone at conferences. You don’t have to look like everyone else, and it’s smart business to use your visual voice to your advantage! Proper fit attracts all the right attention and makes you look like you’re at the top of your profession.

Attending a Business Conference (Men)

Assume business casual attire unless told otherwise. Most conferences these days have adopted a corporate, casual style of dress, which offers a variety of wardrobe choices. However, some limitations still apply for both genders. Make sure your attire is made from quality materials, is pressed, clean and in excellent condition. Shoes must be clean, not worn, and polished. Though your accessories can have a touch of flair, keep them limited and conservative. Also keep in mind your particular industry’s codes and standards, time of day, location, and purpose. Cover any tattoos and piercings. Athletic shoes are usually not appropriate.

Bring a few sports jackets. Technically, they’re not required for business casual, but they are one of the best ways to look professional. Whether it’s a polo shirt with khakis or dress slacks with a button-down shirt, wearing a sports jacket will definitely give you a sharper look. It’s also better to be overdressed than underdressed at a conference.

Wear long-sleeved, button-down, collared shirts. Since a tie is not required for business casual, make sure they are crisp, high-quality and stay up on their own without a tie. Be sure to tuck them in. Consider white shirts. They go with mostly everything and are the dressiest. For outdoor or more casual events, polo shirts are a good choice.

Choose trousers made with quality fabrics. Worsted wool, khaki, cotton or gabardine are great choices. Khakis should have a flat front, not the rumpled-up chinos that you see on the beach. Pant length should reach the top of your shoe or be a tad longer. Wear conservative, leather shoes, loafers or ankle boots. Don’t forget the dress socks and a belt!

Select business colors or other colors that suit you. If you want to play it safe, opt for navy blue, black, brown or grey, which are known business colors. Match with long-sleeved, button-down, solid-colored (usually light blue or white) blouses or shirts. You don’t have to wear business colors, though. Instead, choose colors that you know are personally flattering. In fact, you may find wearing colors different from the norm attracts people to you! If you have light eyes, then a light pink, button-down shirt may look good on you. For dark eyes, an earthy green might be a good choice. The most important things, however, are to not wear anything you’re not comfortable in or that are too outlandish!

Go with classic items, not trendy. Wear a stylish, leather wristwatch. It looks great when resting your arm on the board table! Combine smart trousers with a well-fitting jacket. Choose pieces that are long-lasting, fit you well and are timeless, meaning patterns and designs that never go out of style.