Dress Code Guidance for Seasonal Events

It’s hard to believe that September is already so close, and that means it’s time for fall galas, meetings, and more! So… what do you wear? Dress codes can be intimidating. Some of us opt to decline an invitation because we just don’t know what to wear. As someone who has attended thousands of events over my career, here are some things I've learned about dress codes along the way: Business Casual: Keep it professional but comfortable. A blazer with dress pants or a pencil skirt for women, and dress slacks with a button-down shirt (no tie required) for men, strikes the perfect balance. Dressy Casual: Think of it as a step up from your everyday attire. A nice blouse with slacks or a fun dress, paired with stylish shoes, hits the mark perfectly. Cocktail: This is your chance to dazzle! Opt for a knee-length dress or a chic jumpsuit. For the gentlemen, a suit with a tie (optional) will have you looking sharp and sophisticated. Formal/Black Tie: Bring on the glamor! Ladies, it's time for floor-length gowns and elegant accessories. Men, a tuxedo is your go-to, complete with a bow tie and polished shoes. REMEMBER: Being appropriate in a world where anything goes will still allow you to carve your own way! When you arrive in the proper attire, you honor the occasion, and the organization or person you are supporting. Look the part, accept the invite with dignity, and look great – you will always feel your best self when you dress right!  Can’t wait to see all of your fun looks for the upcoming event season!

Festive seasons can be chaotic.  If you’re working in corporates and want to look festive without overdoing it. I’ve seen multiple clients of mine face the same confusion.    You want to show up to the office in the spirit of the season, but you also want to look polished and professional. And here’s how you can do it effectively: 1/ Start with colours. Swap your usual neutrals with jewel tones, emerald green, maroon, or deep blue. These colours carry festive warmth while still being boardroom-appropriate. 2/ Upgrade your fabrics.  Instead of a regular cotton shirt, try a silk blouse. Or switch your plain trousers for a subtle brocade skirt. Fabrics speak louder than prints when it comes to festive styling. 3/ Add one statement piece. This could be a pair of jhumkas, a textured clutch, or even an embroidered stole. One piece is enough to make you look festive without overwhelming it. 4/ Fusion works wonders. Pair a blazer with a saree. Or tuck in a chikankari kurta with tailored pants. Fusion helps you move seamlessly from work hours to evening celebrations. Festive fashion at work isn’t about being loud. So you can relax.   Try these changes and you won’t have to overthink your outfits this festive season. 

We’re in the thick of summer wedding season. Summer weddings call for a perfect blend of style and comfort, especially for men who want to look sharp while not melting in the heat. As someone who understands the nuances of seasonal fashion trends, I've got some tips to keep you looking cool and sophisticated at any summer wedding. Here’s how to master the summer wedding dress code with style: 1️⃣Light fabrics – Opt for breathable materials like linen or lightweight wool. These fabrics will keep you cool and comfortable without sacrificing elegance. 2️⃣Lighter colors – Summer is the perfect time to embrace lighter shades. Soft grays, blues, and even pastel tones can make your wedding attire feel seasonal and stylish. 3️⃣Accessorize wisely – Choose accessories that reflect the summer vibe. A bright pocket square, a floral tie, sunglasses, or a lightweight scarf can add personality to your outfit without overwhelming it. 4️⃣Consider the venue – Beach and outdoor weddings often call for more casual styles, while indoor events may be more formal. Remember, the key to summer wedding attire is combining comfort with style — keep it light, keep it cool, and maintain that sharp look no matter how relaxed the setting. __ Have you been invited to a summer wedding this season? 🔔 If you want more insights like this about all things style, share this post and follow me, ANDREW WEITZ.