Formal Events
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Formal events may be a little more prescriptive about their dress code.
(You might see “black tie requested” on a formal wedding invite, for instance.)
But you’ll still need to find the perfect, flattering ensemble for you that suits that celebration.
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Bring a light sweater, blazer, or neat jacket to cover up sleeveless styles.
What to Avoid:Skip anything low cut, short, or clingy.
Now’s the time to elevate your look with elegant jewelry, fabulous shoes, and a great hairstyle.
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What to Avoid:Keep the hem length longer, unless the invite says “black tie optional.”
Then you might feel free to loosen up slightly with a formal knee-length cocktail dress.
it’s possible for you to also mix it up with dressy separates.
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Different cities have their own dress codes, so you might want to keep that in mind.
Also, stay away from super-short styles.
Have fun with a statement necklace or earrings that wow.
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It’s not that black isn’t allowed, but lighter and brighter shadesand splashy patternsoften feel more appropriate.
For outdoor events, just say no to heels, which could sink into the lawn or beach.
Black isn’t forbidden, but see to it it leans more on the side of chic than somber.
Kailey Whitman/RS
What to Avoid:Leave the yoga pants, graphic tees, and worse-for-wear sneakers at home.
Be comfortable and relaxed, but aware that you’re not at home by yourself.
Bring a few dinner outfit options for each requirement.
Kailey Whitman/RS
Fancy tea- or floor-length dresses, heels, and a pretty wrap work perfectly for formal nights.
Job Interview
What to Wear;Keep it clean, professional, and appropriate.
What to Avoid:Veering too trendy or casual can be off-putting.
Kailey Whitman/RS
Graduation
What to Wear:Don’t overthink what to wear to a graduation event.
It’s nice and neat but not super dressy.
A knee-length colorful, white, or floral dress is a great option that fits the exciting occasion.
Kailey Whitman/RS
Also, wear comfortable heels, flats, wedges, or nice sandals to walk across the stage smoothly.
Many graduations occur in late spring or early summer and often involve sitting outside for long grad ceremonies.
When you’re dressing for a work function, the culture of your office should prevail.
Kailey Whitman/RS
“If it’s a conservative environment, dress conservatively for events, too,” Williamson says.
Go a step up from what you’d wear to the office.
Jewelry should be quiet and refined (simple studs and a minimalist pendant necklace).
As for color, black is a standard choice but not mandatory.
Dark and discreet patterns are also perfectly acceptable.
Style doesnt take more than five minutes to achieve."
“That doesn’t always mean a suityou could consider coordinated separates.”
“Save it for the dorm,” Rothman says.
Your shoe decision should be about style and comfort.
Your foundation pieces are key.
“Wear your best bra and seamless underwear,” Rothman says.
And Rothman suggests ensuring that your hair and makeup are done, too.
“Take an oversized t-shirt, and tuck it in at your hipbone.
Then create an asymmetrical line, cutting down the belly toward the top of your upper thigh.”
