FORMAL DRESS: CODE, TYPES, IN WOMEN AND IN MEN - CULTURE VOCABULARY - 2025

The formal dress is the set of standards and codes established for important social events. It is generally used for awards, opera, political events, weddings or celebrations of a very elegant nature. The formal style was marked by the use of the white bowtie or bow tie, indicating that the event is quite serious and special.

With the passage of time, this trend has become more flexible, since the use of this same garment is also allowed but in black. For men, the label indicates that they should wear fine-finished tuxedos. In women, although some rules are flexible, elegance and care for accessories, makeup and hairstyle should prevail.

Likewise, and regardless of the case, the relevant thing is to respect the distinction when dressing, since it is what should prevail in this type of situation.

Formal dress code

It is the set of rules and parameters that both men and women must respect when they are at a gala or important event. In this case, it is worth mentioning some considerations in this regard:

-The formal dress applies to elegant events such as opera, anniversaries, corporate events, weddings or any social event that requires wearing elegant clothing.

-Dresses of any length are allowed, as long as care is taken to take care of the quality and fineness of the fabrics and other materials.

-The shoes are also part of a main component, since they must look polished and well cared for.

-In the case of men, they should avoid wearing everyday clothes or casual-cut jackets.

-For some experts in the field, formal dress differs from etiquette since the latter is governed by slightly stricter codes.

-While the essential thing is to respect the dress, it should be noted that behavior is another factor that should not be neglected, since good manners and courtesy should prevail.

Types

Label or

It is considered the most formal type that exists and is generally used for very elegant marriages, political events and the opera. Women must wear long dresses and hair tied back; for men, a tailcoat, a white shirt and a bow tie (or bowtie) of the same color.

Gala or

Some experts believe that this code has some similarities with the previous one, but with the difference that it allows some flexibility in the use of the garments. It usually appears in galas, graduations and even in weddings at night.

In this case, women can wear short dresses and adopt different types of hairstyles, while men opt for tuxedos and black bowties.

Business formal

It is perhaps the least strict on the list because it behaves in a more informal environment than those mentioned above. However, the use of elegant and quality garments must be respected.

In men the use of sports jackets and ties with colorful designs prevails; Instead, women can use skirts and pants, soft textured blouses and jackets to accentuate the elegance of the ensemble.

Formal dress in women

Label

Long dresses to the feet and high heels, which can be sandals or closed. The accessories must be punctual, since elegance is what should predominate (although there is the option of adding a little shine). As for the hair, it must be collected and the makeup must be neat and not overdone.

Gala

In this case, the options are a bit wider, mainly because you can opt for dresses of different lengths or even tailored suits. The flexibility also extends to the type of hairstyle, since it can be worn loose, collected or semi-collected.

The use of accessories, makeup and shoes is more or less similar to the etiquette: they must be elegant and with a quality image.

Of business

As mentioned above, in the formal business suit the code is informal, so it lends itself to playing with various garments such as skirts, suits, two-piece (or three) sets, pants and dresses.

However, the quality and presentation of the clothing must be taken care of, to respect the codes established in the workplace.

Formal dress in men

Label

As it is a strict code, men should wear black tailcoats, black polished shoes (although some experts recommend that they be made of leather), a bench shirt and a white bow tie or bowtie.

Gala

The combination is similar to the previous one: a tuxedo (which does not necessarily have to be black), a shirt, black shoes and a black tie or bowtie.

At this point it is worth mentioning that the trend in men -at least in this type of code- has become more flexible, especially in the colors of the suits and shoe models.

In fact, there is a greater introduction of varied garments, but that continue to keep the elegance that corresponds.

Of business

As in the case of women, this category lends itself to having a little more freedom in terms of colors, patterns and cuts in the pieces. Depending on personal style, there is the option of combining the tie with the shirt and using contrasting patterns.

References

1. Formal or classic? 8 clothing tips for men. (sf). In Fashion Less. Retrieved: June 27, 2018. In Moda Less de pqs.pe.
2. What to wear according to the time and wedding etiquette? (2017). In Nuptials. Retrieved: June 27, 2018. In Nupcias de nupciasmagazines.com.
3. Antonacci, Carolina. (sf). 10 rules to be the most elegant of the party. In Vix. Retrieved: June 27, 2018. In Vix de vix.com.
4. Key difference: formal vs semi formal. (sf). In Evento Corp. Recovered: June 27, 2018. In Evento Corp of eventoscorp.com.
5. Gala dress code how to dress to go formal or cocktail? (2016). In Querol. Retrieved: June 27, 2018. In Querol de querol.net.
6. War, Alexander. Difference between Casual, Formal and Informal. Guide to the Office Dress Code. (2016). On Medium. Retrieved: June 27, 2018. In Medium of medium.com.
7. What is a formal dress code. En Un Como. Retrieved: June 27, 2018. En Un Como de Belleza.uncomo.com.