Ever read an invitation that said, “Black Tie Only” or had someone invite you to a house party saying that you should just come in something “Smart Casual”? Well, there’s a suitable dress code for all occasions but this unsaid subtlety is sometimes missed out by Singaporeans.

So here’s in2it.sg’s decoder on how to figure out the perfect outfit for all situations

Formal (aka the White Tie)

When dressing up for a formal event, you should be wearing a black or dark blue tailcoat, a matching pair of fish tail trousers, a stiff fronted white shirt, stiff white wing collar (preferably detachable), suspenders (no belts), a waist coat, black leather shoes (no patent leather please) and knee high black socks. Oh and don’t forget your white tie, make sure it’s a hand-tied white tie though. Clip-ons are a major faux pax.

For ladies a ball gown is usually expected. Gowns of all colors are acceptable, with or without sleeves, and sleeves of any length. Gloves should be worn, of lengths up to the middle of the upper arm.

But ‘White Tie’ events are exceedingly rare nowadays. ‘White Tie’ events include state dinners, Hunt Balls, Carnival Balls and the premiere of an opera or ballet in big cities.

 

 Semi-Formal

Often mistake for the formal dress code; a semi-formal attire is also known as a ‘Black Tie’ outfit. It is usually a tailless black coat, matching pants, a white shirt, black leather shoes and a black tie is sufficient to satisfy the needs of this particular dress code.

For ladies, this usually means a cocktail dress, usually long or to the knees with sleeves or an appropriate cover up for bared shoulders and heels.

 
Informal

Considered today as a conservative form of dress, the informal dress style is made up of a suit and leather or dressy shoes for men and usually the same for the ladies. However, ladies can also get away with a simply and elegantly cut dress with simple accessories.

This attire is appropriate for all settings that do not fall under White or Black tie events. 

Smart Casual

This style is made up usually of dress pants, a collared shirt and a sports coat. A tie is optional, and loafers or shoes are usually worn. In Singapore, sometimes a polo shirt and non faded jeans can be considered as smart casual for men. For ladies, smart casual could mean jeans with a more formal top or blazer, or a skirt or slacks with dressy flats or mid-heel shoes. 

 
Casual/Street-wear

Casual can mean just about anything you are comfortable in, but remember to take into account the location you are going to. From Bermudas and T-shirts, to skirts and tank tops, from sneakers to sandals, to heels and flats, almost anything goes.

In Singapore, most natives are comfortable with the idea of walking around and going anywhere in slippers and shorts; however, while the combination of slippers and shorts is indeed comfortable, it can appear sloppy as well. In fact, Singaporeans love to pair their slippers with everything, what a fashion faux pas!