Dress codes can be confusing and some encompass a wide array of fashion options, especially for women. The key is to consider the occasion, the venue and the message you want to send. In some situations, the quality of the fabric is as important as the type of clothing. For women, hairstyle, jewelry and makeup are an important part of the overall message, so don't shortchange them.
Black Tie
If an invitation specifies "Black Tie" it means that men must wear tuxedos with black bow ties. Black patent leather shoes are appropriate. Women should wear long gowns but cocktail-length gowns are acceptable if they are very elegant and accompanied by formal jewelry.
If the invitation describes the dress code as "Black Tie Optional," it means men may wear either a tuxedo or a dark suit. Attire for women remains the same as for "Black Tie."
Semi-Formal
The rules for semi-formal dressing are not as clear-cut as for other dress codes. Men should wear a formal medium- to heavy-weight suit, not a lighter-weight fabric such as seersucker, pin cord or linen. Ties are optional but the shirt should be button down. For women, semi-formal opens a whole range of possibilities from dress slacks with a dressy top to a pantsuit or a dress. Whatever you choose to wear, it should be well-fitted and of high-quality fabric. Dresses should be no shorter than an inch above the knee.
Interview Attire
Regardless of the work environment, a suit is always the safest choice for an interview unless the interviewer specifically tells you to dress more casually. A suit shows that you respect the company and that you care about how you represent yourself. Choose dark colors and conservative styles. Bear in mind the activities you will undertake during the interview. For example, if the interview includes a tour of a factory, ensure that you have comfortable-but-classy footwear and if you're wearing a skirt, it should allow for ease of movement.
Business Casual
Business casual means you should look professional but not overly formal. For women, skirts or slacks accompanied by blouses or sweaters in comfortable-but-conservative styles is appropriate. Comfortable, low-key dresses also are an option. Men may wear khakis or dress slacks with a collared, button-down shirt. A sport coat is optional but a tie is not appropriate. Jeans are not appropriate for either women or men.
Informal/Casual
For occasions where the dress coded is labeled either "informal" or "casual," the trick is to make your attire appropriate to the occasion and the venue. For a backyard barbecue, you might wear a T-shirt with either shorts or jeans, but for an informal wedding you should show respect for the occasion by choosing clothing that is a little more dressy, such as slacks and a collared shirt for men and an informal dress or skirt and blouse for women.
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