10 Party Dress Codes Demystified

Looking appropriately styled when hitting any type of party is a must, which is why we partnered with Hallmark Signature for this post.

You're already slightly booked with Summer invites, so selecting the right attire for each event is an exciting endeavor. But what's appropriate for each event? Make accepting party invites effortless with this breakdown of each type of party dress code — so you can focus on putting together the right look for wherever you're headed.

— Additional reporting by Rebecca Brown

01
Black Tie
Getty | Timur Emek

Black Tie

We're talking formal dresses for this invite. Go with a floor-length gown or something flowing. And it's an opportunity to make an investment in a classic dress that you'll have for other big events.

02
Black-Tie Optional
Getty | Kirstin Sinclair

Black-Tie Optional

Get out your favorite LBD, because this invite calls for your go-to dressy dress. You'll probably see this look suggested for most weddings or semiformal events, so pick up a few looks you can intermixbrand> when hitting several parties during the season.

03
Creative Black Tie
Getty | Timur Emek

Creative Black Tie

This is an event that's still semiformal, but you have some wiggle room with your wardrobe. Rather than going the traditional LBD route, opt for an all-white ensemble and vibrant block heels.

04
Cocktail
Getty | Merilyn Smith

Cocktail

Add some shimmer, or go with a seasonal color for a strong semiformal statement. Keep hemlines in check and stick to dresses no more than two inches above the knee. Whether it's a swanky party or an afternoon wedding, something with special details is always a win.

05
Business Formal
Getty | Merilyn Smith

Business Formal

This should be a fitted dress topped with a jacket or a strong pair of pants, dress shirt, and jacket. Business formal is your best work clothes amped up a notch. You might feel overdressed, but you'll want to impress with this invite.

06
Business Casual
Getty | Vanni Bassetti

Business Casual

This dress code calls for something tailored, like your favorite pantsuit or work dress. You want to feel like whatever you're wearing is office appropriate but also dressy. And you can add stylish touches by adding layers or tossing on bold boots.

07
Smart Casual
Getty | Kirstin Sinclair

Smart Casual

Go with a flowing dress or even an elevated version of your favorite skirt and tee. But keep it classy with fun touches, like sparkling sandals or a statement jacket. You want to look put together yet effortlessly chic.

08
Dressy Resort
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Dressy Resort

Go with something comfortable but still stylish. You're going for the I'm-at-a-high-end-resort kind of look, so everything from a tailored dress with heels to a flowing maxi works. You'll probably see this dress code pop up on Summer weddings or warm-weather formal events.

09
Casual Chic
Getty | Merilyn Smith

Casual Chic

It's a bit nonsensical to see an invite declaring a casual-chic dress code, but it's really an opportunity to style your weekend look. Think about accessorizing with hats, belts, scarves, or layers of your favorite necklaces. You want to look elegant without being overdone, so have fun with what you put together.

10
Come as You Are
Getty | Merilyn Smith

Come as You Are

Another dress code option that can get a bit sticky, a come-as-you-are invite is basically telling you your cute and comfortable clothes are more than OK. So toss on your favorite jeans and flats, a denim shirt and white mini, or even flowing pants and cotton top. It all works just fine.

More From Hallmark
Getty

More From Hallmark

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Follow Hallmark's #SignatureStyle board on Pinterest!