There are so many formal events with their different expectations, as far as dress code is concerned. How do you navigate this maze and ensure that you’re properly dressed for every event? Here’s a guide to help you navigate 10 dress codes for formal events, whether you’re picking outfits like Black Tie Dresses, Evening Gowns, or even Formal Dresses.

White Tie

White-tie events are the most formal and have made their way down from the Victorian era. Women attending a white tie event are expected to be dressed in fancy, full-length evening gowns, similar to classic Ball Gowns, which are almost always paired with long gloves as the major accessory.

Black Tie

The black-tie dress code comes from the Regency era and is often the dress code for many weddings. Women attending black tie events are expected to wear floor-length dresses made from materials, preferably silk. Many women choose elegant Formal Evening Dresses or Long Dresses for this look.

Black Tie Optional

Black tie optional is a dress code that implies that your host would prefer if you followed the traditional black tie dress code as much as possible. However, they would accept elegant dresses and suits. So, you need to tone down on the black tie outfit while still maintaining the formal appearance. A glam Sequin Dress or a classy A-line dress works well here.

Business Casual

If you work in a corporate office, you’ll most likely have to do this a lot, with a comfortable, polished outfit that still looks professional enough to meet clients. You can get a colorful knee-length dress and comfortable shoes, but don’t look like a party-goer.

Wedding Dress Code

Weddings will almost always come with a wedding theme, but in case they don’t, you can go in a long or knee-length cocktail dress. Elegant dresses and dresses made of too much white are a no-no, and accessories shouldn’t make too much of a loud statement if you’re a wedding guest. Many choose subtle Special Occasion Dresses for this.

Prom Dress Code

Prom is a formal event, so you need to wear formal attire, especially a full-length dress, but a midi-dress could also suffice. Long Prom Dresses and Mermaid Prom Dresses with matching shoes are perfect. However, dresses that are too short, tight, too revealing, or expose your cleavage won’t be allowed by many schools for prom, so you have to be careful when choosing those Sexy Prom Dresses. Beautiful options like Plus Size Prom Dresses give you even more choices.