When you have over 100 pairs of pumps in your closet, you look for excuses to get glammed up, while a majority of your peers think that denim is an all-purpose fabric. Here’s a look at some occasions that traditionally have required some extra effort for fashion’s sake, and some tips on dressing formally while still being you.
1) Court
You may find yourself in front of a judge for a majority of reasons: jury duty, protesting a traffic violation, and maybe even fighting for your freedom as a defendant. In any case, since many major decisions are made by a judge, you want to be taken as seriously as possible and that can be hard for a person in authority to do if you are dressed in a pink pin-striped suit and top hat complete with a feather. Gentlemen, try to find a plain black, grey or navy blue suit that conveys that whatever position you’re in that you’re a dignified cooperative member of society. Ladies, opt for a pant suit or slacks and a blouse or sweater. Clothes should be modest and fit well. Try to avoid anything that would make you look deceptive such as sunglasses or hats. The accused should be the only one on trial, not your closet.
2) Church
Churches, synagogues and temples are places of worship and in most religions, people traditionally dress more formally for service as a sign of respect. While it is highly doubtful that a higher power is concerned with what you’re wearing while you worship, the last thing you want to be is a distraction. For regular services, the rules may be a bit more relaxed, but definitely any special ceremony (baptisms, weddings and funerals for example) requires more effort. Don’t stress if you can’t find that Sunday dress, as long as your outfit is modest and not from last night’s adventure to the nightclub, your soul should be saved.
3) Weddings
As stated above, traditionally, weddings are a church ceremony and usually require some formality, but what about that wedding in that wacky Vegas wedding chapel? While the themes of weddings become more and more unique, the dress code is totally up to the couple’s discretion. Themes can range from biker apparel to “Twilight” vampire fantasies, and the couple to be wed is who sets the tone for their special day. As for the traditional black-tie wedding, ladies remember to not wear white (it is said to be bad luck for the bride) and fellas should always invest one all-occasion suit for their wardrobe. Unless you’re James Bond, you typically won’t need a tuxedo as a staple in your closet. If you are a best man or one of the groomsmen, renting a tuxedo is a whole lot less inexpensive that buying one. Also, traditionally tuxedos are frowned upon before 6 p.m. Other things to consider are location, weather and comfort. Remember, the focus should be on the couple to be married, not a fashion show for you.
4) Work/ Job Interviews/ Career Fairs
Depending on where you work and if you have a choice about what you wear, work can be a place to play with your individuality. Just because you work a 9-5, doesn’t mean you always have to look like you do. First, you have to snag the position. As a rule, whether you’re interviewing for a cashier or accountant position, you want to be taken seriously. You only get one chance to make a first impression. Putting the extra effort into the hiring process sends the message that you will do the same for the position. Investigate the organization for which you are interviewing and its dress code. Suits are safe and convey professionalism, a trait that all positions require.
Once you snag the position the rules may be a bit more relaxed. I had a friend who interviewed for an intern position at Vibe magazine. The interviewers snickered about his very formal suit at first, but hired him and advised him it was okay to regularly dress casually. Unsure about the dress code? Just ask. Hiring managers typically encourage questions during the interview process and this is a great one to ask.
For both men and women, less is more. This also applies to fragrance; your Calvin Klein shouldn’t arrive in the cubicle before you do. Keep accessories to a minimum and hair and makeup neat at all times. In the corporate world, cornrows are usually a no-go, but this all depends on the tone of the company. In these economic times, it’s understandable to not be picky about where your paycheck comes from, but if you do have a choice, choose a company whose culture doesn’t conflict with your own. This will allow you room for creativity.
5) Prom
We’ve all seen plenty of custom-made, cringe-worthy prom fashions. The reality is most young adults will only get to attend one or two high-school proms of their own, and while it can be fun to test the borders of school policy, it is for the most part a school-sponsored event. With that said, discretion can be a good thing. It is a night to celebrate the transition from teenager to young adult, your educational success and friends. For a fun-filled night of dancing, you wouldn’t want to worry about discomfort or wardrobe malfunctions. Ladies, pack a pair of flats shoes or slippers to give your feet a rest after the dance floor.
Also be careful with trends. That bright pink and orange may be cute now, but will it be in ten years when you are glancing over prom pics? Funky twists on denim can be fun, but if you wear jeans most of the time, prom is an opportunity to be flashy and formal. Lastly, coordinate with your date. A matching cummerbund or tie adds a unique touch and will also complement your date.
Additional tips:
- Call ahead to casinos, restaurants and theater shows if you are unsure about the dress code. Many places will not allow entry if you are dressed inappropriately.
- When in doubt, doll up. Being overdressed in not as offensive in most situations as being under dressed. If you can, investigate the dress code in advance, otherwise opt for the dressier outfit and avoid jeans!
- Speaking publicly? Know your audience. A three piece suit might impress an audience of professionals, but themiddle-school class might find it intimidating.
