Fashion: Party dress codes deciphered

By Michiko Hylands

Living·

18 Oct, 2015 01:30 AM3 mins to read

Photos / Supplied

Your guide to nailing your look for events this season.

Party season is upon us and the inbox starts to overflow with invitations to various fun events. It can be incredibly confusing trying to decipher the many different dress codes. You want to find something fabulous and appropriate for the occasion.

To avoid a fashion faux pas, check out my mini how-to guide for party dress codes. From there, you can tweak it to make it your own.

Black-tie

This calls for a super-sophisticated, dressed-to-the-nines, red-carpet-worthy, floor-length gown. TK Store's slinky halter-necked Berlin dress brings back old Hollywood style glamour. If you're after wow-factor then look no further.

Dress to Impress

Think ultra classy with maximum impact. A perfect choice is Camilla and Marc's colourful Spirit top and Stealing Beauty skirt. This fashion-forward look is made for hosting hip dinner parties, attending art gallery openings and basically any high-glam events.

Cocktail/After 5

When it comes to semi-formal or cocktail attire, my motto is keep it chic and simple. Dress length is always shorter here. Black Halo's tailored dress ticks all the boxes. Just add some to-die-for statement accessories and it's time to get the party started.

Dressy Resort

Maxi dresses rule here but always with a glam edge. For the wild at heart, Carlson's leopard print Harper's dress is a great bohemian choice.

Creative Cocktail

Keeping it dressy, it's now time to think outside the square. Stolen Girlfriends Club's Gather ball dress brings a bit of rock 'n' roll style into the mix. Add a leather jacket and some killer accessories and you're ready to hit the town.

Festive

Festive attire means you can add an element of fun. A shimmery fabric, razzle-dazzle sequins or, in this case, fabulous fringing, will do the trick. Liam's flapper-esque Vaudeville dress fits this brief perfectly.

Creative black-tie

Break away from the traditional ball gown and try a tailored pants ensemble instead. Staple + Cloth's Folio top and Sidney pant is a look that personifies effortless and understated chic.

With party dress codes explained, it's time to embrace the party season confidently. If in doubt, always remember "never be afraid to sparkle a little brighter, darling" and, as Coco Chanel said, as long as you always keep it "classy and fabulous", you can do no wrong.