Style Tips

Evening Wear Dress Codes

A dress code which calls for 'evening wear' is sure to be a formal occasion where guests are expected to go that extra mile in terms of their dress and overall presentation. If you have received an invite which states 'formal wear' or 'evening wear' under the dress code, think elegance and sophistication with a touch of glamour. Evening wear generally entails white or black tie and suits for men, and formal dresses, cocktail dresses or gowns for women. It is the most glamorous and formal of occasions, and because of this it can be difficult to plan an outfit for.

Evening wear can be worn to events which call for a sit-down dinner or a charity ball, and so the choice of dress should reflect the level of formality of the event. Finding the right formal dress for a special occasion such as a wedding, an engagement party or a birthday requires a bit of research and perhaps some assistance from formal retailers or a dress rental company such as GlamCorner, who can help in finding the perfect evening wear to suit you and the formal event that you are attending, and making sure that your outfit adheres to the evening wear dress code. For more help on 'cracking the dress code', this article by Style Caster is a useful reference! These following tips for evening wear styling should be taken into account when preparing for your upcoming formal event:

Look for Luxe

Consider a dress which ranges from knee length to full-length. Keeping the hem longer keeps a bit of intrigue and sophistication. Look for rich fabrics in rich colours. Darker hues have a more formal appearance than lighter hues; so try a deep burgundy, emerald green or navy blue as a more interesting alternative to classic black. Look for texture and sparkle for a more modern twist, and opt for flattering styles such as a mermaid silhouette. Have a look at these Top Formal Dress Styles for inspiration when choosing that perfect dress.

Grace & Hart - Renaissance Gown - Navy - Front
Grace & Hart - Status Gown - Sangria - Front
Tadashi Shoji - Whimbrel Gown - Cedar - Front

Go Formal With Our Accessories

Amp up your evening wear by selecting formal accessories to complement your dress. A pair of chandelier style earrings are gorgeous for a formal night out, or a satin clutch can be both practical and stylish while still maintaining that formal dress code.  If you are wearing a gown that has detail around the neckline, make this the focus and opt for a statement bangle or ring with crystal or gem embellishments. If your dress or gown is a solid colour, try playing with an embellished purse or clutch to add a little bit of texture to your ensemble.

Anya Hindmarch - Marano Metallic Glitter Box Clutch - Front- Gold
Franchi - Black Jewel Box - Black - Front
Adorne - Moroccan Flower & Teardrop Stone Clip On Earring

Consult a Stylist

For most of us, the prospect of choosing an outfit for a formal occasion that specifies a certain dress code can be daunting. There are so many different dress codes, and a lot of them seem to blend into one another; 'Cocktail Dress', 'Formal', 'Black & White', 'Lounge Suit'. Seeking advice from a stylist will ensure that you are getting knowledgeable advice from some one who is apt in dressing clients for all these different occasions and dress codes. If you have been invited to an event that specifies 'evening wear' or 'formal dress', consult a GlamCorner stylist and book a styling session.

Formal dressing needn't be difficult. Just keep in mind the 'evening wear' code and style accordingly. If a dress or gown frightens you, or is just not your style, then look outside of the box and opt for a formal tuxedo-style jumpsuit or a tweed skirt and black shirt with black pumps or strappy heels. Pants don't have to be masculine; look for styles which flare out and give the body some shape, and opt for soft materials like silk. This jumpsuit by Maurie & Eve is perfect for a formal event; style with a metallic heel and matching bangles for an outfit that oozes glamour. Go for bold and opt for a jumpsuit with a plunging neckline and add a statement embellished necklace! Think about teaming your outfit with a faux fur jacket to add some extra glamour as well as keeping that practicality throughout the cooler months, especially if your formal event is an outdoor occasion.

Shop Our Evening Wear Collection

Maurie & Eve - The Runaway Jumpsuit - Front
George - Jasmine Jacket - Front - Black
Diane von Furstenberg - Blithe Jumpsuit - Front

Related Posts