Dress codes decoded

An invitation's dress code protects you from turning up under or overdressed. Learn the language once and you will never panic in front of the wardrobe again.

The golden rules

• It is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
• If you are unsure, ask the host or another guest. It is a sensible question, not an embarrassing one.
• Clothes should be clean, pressed and fit well. That matters more than price.

White tie (the most formal)

• Men: black tailcoat, white wing-collar shirt, white bow tie, white waistcoat, black patent shoes.
• Women: full-length evening gown; long gloves are optional if the dress is sleeveless.

Black tie

• Men: black dinner jacket (tuxedo) with silk lapels, matching trousers, white dress shirt, black bow tie, polished black shoes.
• Women: floor-length evening dress, an elegant cocktail dress, or smart evening trousers.
• 'Black tie optional': men may wear a dark suit and conservative tie instead of a tuxedo.
• 'Creative black tie': room for a coloured bow tie or more individual touches.

Cocktail

• Men: smart dark suit (a velvet jacket is a stylish option in the evening).
• Women: a chic knee-length or midi dress, or a smart trouser outfit.

Lounge suit / business

• Men: dark or grey suit and tie.
• Women: a day dress, trouser suit, or skirt with a jacket.

Smart casual and business casual

• Smart casual: blazer, chinos and a collared shirt for men; a dress, skirt or smart trousers with a jacket for women. Debrett's says even designer denim is probably too casual.
• Business casual: closed-toe shoes, no gym wear, nothing worn out.

National and modest dress

• National dress such as the kandura, abaya, thobe or sari is appropriate at formal events in its own formal versions; choose the most formal fabrics and accessories you have.
• In the UAE, the government asks people to dress modestly in public places such as malls: no see-through or very revealing clothes, and swimwear only at beaches and pools. Loose clothes covering shoulders and knees are a safe choice.