Saves a lot of headaches and hassle

Nothing is more unpleasant than not feeling comfortable in a company because you have the feeling that you are the only one dressed incorrectly.

Lady Thatcher is invited to Balmoral Castle by the then Queen Elizabeth II and appears in formal business attire while everyone else present takes tea in casual hunting attire and makes the Prime Minister of England and her husband feel that they have no idea about the prevailing dress code. Can be seen in the Netflix series The Crown.

GloriousMe can also tell you a thing or two about it: The invitation to the Marketing Club in the early evening in London did not suggest that evening wear, and therefore long dresses for the ladies, was the dress code there. Everyone else obviously knew this dress code and had quickly slipped out of their office clothes into an elegant evening dress after work. It was horrible – a trouser suit never seemed more inappropriate.

Dress codes make life easier, especially for those who are invited to an event for the first time.

It was also Victoria and David Beckham’s first royal wedding to which they were invited. The second time around, they are a well-rehearsed team.

Victoria and David Beckham, St George’s Chapel Windsor Castle 2018 © Alamy Stock Photo

Royal Ascot

The famous horse race in England, a social event that is always attended by members of the royal family, has recognized this and explains in detail on its homepage which dress code applies in which spectator area.

The Royal Ascot dress code also clearly states what clothing is not acceptable, for example predominantly transparent dresses, sneakers, clothing with political or advertising texts, shoulder straps that are too narrow and more.

An ideal aid for anyone who wants to see this famous horse race for the first time. How disappointing it would be to arrive there in the wrong clothes and not be let in.

Royal Ascot dress code

The organizers of Ascot are interested in new spectators. If they don’t have a tailcoat or suit hanging in their wardrobe at home – no problem. There are outfitters from whom the perfect look can be borrowed. Some of them are linked on the homepage.

Formal wear rental companies, especially for men, can be found in almost every major city. They are a perfect solution for being perfectly dressed.

The most difficult dress code is not a dress code

This makes it difficult for newcomers. After all, a certain style of dress has often become established over a long period of time in a circle of friends, a club or a family, which all the insiders know without it being talked about.

Birds of a feather, stick together.

The saying “Come as you feel comfortable” doesn’t help, on the contrary, it usually leads to the wrong result. It is better to provide assistance or not be afraid to ask detailed questions yourself. Only then will everyone feel comfortable in the end.

Smart Casual

This dress code is not really smart. Because it doesn’t matter whether it’s a business or private invitation: Smart casual only allows a lot of leeway at first glance.

For some, this means a summer suit with a light-colored tie compared to the usual dark blue or anthracite suit.

Jeans may be possible, a certain wash may be expected (dark yes, light no) or jeans may not be seen as suitable.

A jacket can be desirable or overdressed. When in doubt, go for the more formal side, which is easier to present in a more relaxed way during the afternoon or evening than the other way round.

White Tie

This dress code, however, leaves no questions unanswered. At festive gala events or state banquets, it is clear that a white shirt, a white vest and a white bow tie are worn with a tailcoat. Crystal clear. Black and white. Take it or leave it.

Nevertheless, this look can be individually varied with an interesting watch chain, an unusual flower in the buttonhole or a brooch, for anyone who loves individuality in detail.

Black Tie

In this case, a man has to reach for the tuxedo in his wardrobe or borrow one. The name of the dress code says it all: the black bow tie should be combined with it, especially if you can tie it yourself.

The shirt for this look should have double cuffs, which belong to one of the most beautiful accessories: The cufflinks.

This dress code applies to the ladies: Long evening dress. Long, elegant silk gloves are possible here, whereas they are expected at White Tie.

Cocktail dress code

The dress code is easier to fulfill for women than for men, because it says that a short dress or an elegant trouser suit is acceptable.

Men have the most leeway here and therefore the most question marks. An elegant, well-tailored suit is the simplest solution here.

A tie is optional here for those who like to wear them and know that an open shirt under a jacket must have very special collar qualities to look good.

If you can assess the hosts well, the gentlemen can also be more creative. And the connoisseur will also recognize originality and individuality in a well-tailored suit and a smart tie.

Dress code Business Formal

Here again, creativity is not the order of the day. Every industry defines the formal business code differently. In a conservative industry, this clearly means a suit, two or three-piece suit, tie and leather shoes. In another industry, it means that you should not show up to this event barefoot and wearing a faded surfer T-shirt and shorts.

Don’t guess, but ask if you are new to the team.

© GloriousMe

Fantasy

Some hosts love themed parties: James Bond, Bollywood, Bonnie & Clyde … Movie themes or fantasy themes are popular. Hosts are disappointed if the dress code is only half-heartedly followed.

So there are only two options: Go in full costume or politely decline. If you really don’t feel like dressing up and still want to show up, the minimal compromise is the craziest hat you can find on the market.

Cover picture ‘Back from Ascot’ 1959 © Alamy Stock Photo