Dial events

Decoding the dress code

Whether you opt for black tie or cocktail, be sure to wear it with confidence

Flummoxed by dress codes? Afraid of making a fashion faux pas? Expotel asks the experts to solve your dressing dilemmas so you can be the belle of the festive ball!

The company email’s been sent out. Expotel’s events team has helped you sort out a fab venue with lots of entertainment planned. Now the only thing you need to sort out is what to wear to the Christmas office party…

If the thought of getting the party dress code wrong makes you break out in a cold sweat, fear not – we have assembled a team of fashion and entertainment experts to guide you.

Help! What’s the difference between ‘black tie’ and ‘cocktail’?

“‘Black tie’ usually means long dresses for women, while ‘cocktail’ usually means shorter ones. The boundaries are becoming more blurred, however, and these days it’s perfectly acceptable for women to wear something shorter to black-tie events – full-length dresses are not for everyone. For men, black tie is a dinner jacket and bow tie, but for cocktails it’s what’s known as a lounge suit, which is essentially just a normal suit.”

Joy Evan-Cook, owner of Musa boutique, London

I've got an invite that says ‘white tie’ – what do I wear?

“It’s very formal – for women it would be a long dress. For men, it’s a white bow tie and tails, with a stiff white wing collar, usually some sort of waistcoat and a tailcoat.”

Sophie Conran, entertaining guru

I feel uncomfortable in formal wear, yet the company work do invite says I’ve got to dress up. Any tips?

“Practise wearing your outfit around the house so that it becomes familiar. Visualise yourself having fun at the party and pick out your best bits to concentrate on. If you fill your head with positive thoughts, there won’t be room for feelings of insecurity.”

Georgina Burnett, life coach

My Christmas do is quite informal, but I don’t want to look scruffy – any recommendations?

“Sparkly separates are great for this sort of event. Structured jackets are harder to wear, so why not try a sequin top, worn with black trousers or jeans?”

Joy Evan-Cook

How do I accessorise my little black dress?

“With accessories, put on everything you want to wear and then take half of them off.”

Sophie Conran

What should I do if I’ve made the effort but no one else has bothered?

“Revel in the fact you probably look the best there – the others will all wish they had made more of an effort! Walk tall as if you had decided to dress up for the occasion, rather than it being a mistake.”

Georgina Burnett

Surely dressing up for Christmas parties is really just for women – do guys really need to make an effort?

“Yes! It’s a shame most men don’t dress up at all these days. A suit and tie always looks really sophisticated, and I do like a waistcoat, too – it’s a great way to finish an outfit off.”

Celia Birtwell, fashion designer

I want to ‘dress to impress’ but am concerned my dress looks a bit, well, tarty. Advice, please!

“If you are fearing you look too tarty, you probably do. Bear in mind that while you may turn heads, you're unlikely to earn the respect of your boss and colleagues dressed in this way.”

Georgina Burnett

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