If the invitation you received has an indication of the type of dress your hosts expect you to wear at the party don’t get annoyed nor take it as a sign of snobbishness. Celebrate since you have just been rid of the “what shall I wear” dilemma!

Actually, the dress code as it is called, saves you from going to the party inadequately clothed - either over or underdressed. Compare the different dress codes on the following pages. 

This requires a well thought-out ensemble however informal. Think little black dress, or wide pantaloons, or a skirt and jacket. Men should wear jackets and sports trousers, though certainly not jeans. Your accessories can be fairly big but avoid too much sparkle. Opt for long metal chains or pendants and bracelets. Rings and earrings can be made of milky stones. This is the perfect style for going to the theatre or dinner with friends and also for dancing at clubs.

 

 

A little more elegant than the plain smart casual, this dress code requires a more careful choice of clothing. For men, a suit and tie in discreet colours is essential. For women, quality definitely takes the lead: dresses can be long or short but must be made of stately materials like silk, velvet or taffeta. Important details like draping, embroidery, frills and shine are also welcome but in moderation. Invest in refined non-ostentatious jewellery - pearl necklaces, gold earrings and bracelets, moderately sized stones - and pile on the plain-lined and contemporary design pieces.

 

 

Giant doses of glamour needed: men must wear dinner jackets and you must look perfect! Get inspired by the great film stars and splash out on that dream dress. Take your best jewellery out of the safe: it’s time to show off your diamonds, sapphires, emeralds and rubies. Long dresses are the best option although nowadays, short sophisticated ones are also allowed. Bet on low necklines, a well placed slit, transparency and brocade… but choose only one at a time! Black-tie encompasses a certain drama but is not a synonym for fancy-dress. Scale your highest heels, choose between an embroidered and a metal clutch and you will be dressed to kill!

 

 

No great mystery here! The cocktail dress is worn to gatherings at friends’ houses; therefore, although you have to look as beautiful as ever, don’t go over the top. Wear a well cut short dress, a little above the knee depending on your height. Although this is not a gala occasion, you are free to wear a little sparkle as long as you don’t overdo it and outshine the other guests by wearing several stones at the same time. If you want to play safe choose a single gemstone piece – a ring or earrings perhaps, and mix it with other metal-only pieces.