Posh 101 | Decode The Dress Code

Sometimes decoding the dress code on an invitation can be confusing.  No one wants to be the one person under-dressed or over-dressed, so it is important to know what attire is appropriate for an event.  Just as what you wear is important, it is equally important to have place settings that reflect the formality of your event.  Unsure of what this all means?  Well, here’s how to figure it out:

Images via Pinterest casual/resort chic/semi-formal/black tie

 

From Revelry House, we bring you more descriptive definitions of what each means:

Casual: What you choose to wear here is dependent on both climate and occasion – example: we wouldn’t suggest that your guy wear cargo shorts to a wedding.  For the most part, khakis or nice jeans and a polo shirt or casual button-up is fine for men.  For gals, we suggest a sundress, maxi skirt or nice jeans (no rips!) with a plain t-shirt or casual blouse.
Resort Chic (also referred to as Garden Party or Patio Attire): In most cases, this instruction is reserved for weddings and receptions. Here, your outfit should err on the dressier side of casual (above) with a dress or skirt. Embellished sandals or wedges are perfect for the occasion. Men should wear slacks and a nice linen top with loafers. Both guys and gals should avoid jeans.
Cocktail Attire/ Semi-formal: Here, guests are invited to accessorize according to the holiday or occasion (it’s “Festive” after all).  Ladies, the rules are the same here as with semi-formal attire (discussed below), perhaps just a bit more holiday-focused.  For the gents, its’ a little less formal.  Men can wear a blazer and slacks and can even consider a holiday tie.
Black Tie (also referred to as Formal): Gals are expected to wear floor-length evening gowns or an especially embellished and fancy LBD. Guys should stick with a black tuxedo with patent leather dress shoes. On some occasions, they could also wear tuxedo pants and bowtie with a white dinner jacket.

Party Prep | Host vs. Guest

Hosting a dinner party is no small fete. To ensure you're the hostess with the mostess (and guests want to return next time), here are a few pointers for an enjoyable evening. 

1. Keep it simple. As mentioned yesterday, you should know the rules well enough that you can break them fabulously. Have fun with your tabletops and bring in festive stemware and chairs. That beings said, set the stage so guests feel important. There is nothing wrong with bringing beauty to your tabletops.
2. Pull up a seat with a stranger. Mix friends and strangers so the evening has a more the merrier vibe. Over the course of a meal, new friendships will be forged. 
3. Dress the part, but don't go overboard. You want festive attire but nothing that will constrict the way you move (or hurt your feet). Go for the sparkle but don't be so serious. 
4. Invest in the food you serve. Serve a family favorite or personalized drink. Guests will appreciate such a soulful touch. If that just isn't an option, find a great caterer who will provide a custom menu.
5. Set up an easy buffet and bar area that is easily accessible for the cocktails sure to come before and after dinner. 
6. Be gracious!

Being a good guest is equally as important. Know the rules and don't break them.

1. RSVP. Don't call at the last minute to cancel, unless you want to ensure you're on the naughty guest list (i.e. no invite next year).
2. Dress code. Know the difference between cocktail attire, black tie, and casual attire. Who What Wear has a great post on what to wear for the holidays. (Note: Casual does not mean jeans. Keep it classy.)
3. Understand that the party or dinner does not revolve around you. Learn the difference between exchanging ideas and just expressing your opinion. Ask questions and move between groups of people. Rule numero uno - no gossiping. 
4. Bring a fabulous hostess gift. A bottle of wine is a nice gesture, but go a step further and think about something that really represents the host. From stationary to a holiday ornament, you can really go wherever you want here. 
5. Don't overindulge. Social drinking is to be expected, but being drunk only ensures you'll be paying for a cab and not asked to return next time around. 
6. Be gracious!

The number one rule of the season: Enjoy yourself! What a blessing to be around family and friends.