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Do You Know Your Dress Code?

16th September 2008

Most people find dress codes difficult to decipher and often turn up at an event either underdressed or even worse - overdressed! Unfortunately, we are naturally inclined to dress according to our mood, but unless you want to make some kind of outrageous statement, it’s best to wear an outfit that is similar to those worn by the people around you. This doesn’t mean that you have to be boring, you can fit in and still attract compliments at the same time.

Before we even begin discussing dress codes though, make sure you invest in some sexy new underwear. Men can’t go wrong with black, grey or navy boxer shorts - animal print thongs and white grandpa briefs are an absolute no go! Ladies have more of a choice and can find a wonderful selection of underwear sets for any occasion - from fitness to flirting - at Primark or Matalan for under £10!

Starting at the bottom of the ladder with "Casual", you can pretty much relax and wear anything you like. Women should avoid high heels and too many frills though, as these always look a bit dressy and it’s safer to choose a nice pair of jeans, t-shirt and trainers. Designer labels if you prefer, but subtle and down-to-earth! Smart casual on the other hand, means that you should at least make a bit of an effort. I would suggest that men stick to jeans, but combine them with a plain or white and pale blue striped buttoned-up shirt. Women could perhaps go for denim-look brown or cream trousers and a pretty top, again avoiding high heels and choosing low-heeled sandals or pumps instead.

Choosing an outfit for a cocktail party or work function is slightly more tricky. While men can get away with any well cut and pressed business suit, women (as usual!) have to put a lot more thought into their outfit. The perfect dress for a cocktail party falls somewhere between smart office wear and something you’d wear to a wedding or a ball. High heels are a must for this type of party and the golden rule is to make sure your skirt or dress is either knee-length or up to six inches above the knee. Anything shorter could look cheap and if your top is low-cut as well, you are asking for trouble. There is a very fine line between looking sexy and looking too sexy!

Black Tie or Formal is again easier for men to tackle - smart dinner jacket and black bow tie and that’s that! My own personal tip for men would be to wear a classic set of braces. This is the sign of a true gentleman and is bound to remind women of Mr Darcy in "Pride & Prejudice" or their favourite romantic star. Women are meant to wear long gowns à la Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman", but as most of us mortals don’t have thousands of pounds to splash out one dress, keep an eye out for bargains, especially if Debenham’s is having a sale. If you find something classic and flattering in January, snatch it and keep it safe for that dreaded Christmas ball.

A last tip for ladies - don’t forget to make the appropriate change, however subtle, to your hairstyle, make-up and perfume. If you learn to concentrate on these small, but important details your looks will always suit the occasion as perfectly as your clothes.

By MELANY KARRMICHAEL