Dress codes, decoded
The words on an invitation map to a fairly precise level of formality. Here they are from most to least formal, with what each means for women and men.
Not sure which one yours is? Paste the invitation into the decoder.
From most to least formal
The ladder
- 1White tieThe most formal dress code there is: a black tailcoat with a white waistcoat and bow tie, or a full-length evening gown.
- 2Black tieFormal evening dress: a dinner jacket (tuxedo) with a black bow tie, or a floor-length or very elegant dress.
- 3Black tie optionalA tuxedo is welcome but a dark suit and tie is fine; for women, a long gown or an elegant cocktail dress.
- 4Cocktail attireDressier than business, less formal than black tie: a suit and tie, or a knee-to-midi dress or elegant separates.
- 5Business formalThe most formal office dress: a dark suit, dress shirt and tie, or a suit, tailored dress or skirt suit.
- 6Business casualTailored trousers or chinos, a shirt, blouse or knit, and leather shoes; a blazer optional.
- 7Smart casualTailored but relaxed: chinos or dark jeans, a collared shirt or fine knit, clean shoes.
- 8Beach formalFormal enough for a wedding, light enough for sand and heat: linen or light suits without a tie, and flowing dresses.
- 9Festive attireCocktail attire with seasonal colour or sparkle: deep jewel tones, velvet, a little shine.
- 10CasualAnything clean and fitted: jeans, tees, sneakers, with one intentional piece.
Verdicts and outfits come from published colour and dress-code rules, not paid placement; garment images are AI-generated illustrations of generic pieces. How we decide