Special occasions call for a dress code to be followed. Formal occasions generally warrant the wearing of long dresses. Cocktail evenings are a chance to show off short dresses. People dress according to a theme for fancy dress occasions. The party at the horse races is a popular occasion for hats.

Even though fashion is a personal choice dress codes provide parameters for acceptable dress. Events like balls are glitzy affairs that see women dressed to the nines in glittery dresses and jewelry. Scarves and gloves can be added to outfits to dress them up. Men are usually in suits and ties. It is still possible to maintain some individuality within a dress code.

When dining out, smart casual dress is usually the attire of choice for most. This is quite an open ended category but it usually means that open toed shoes or short pants are not permitted after dark. Some establishments enforce that men wear buttoned shirts and do not permit sneakers to be worn. Some places may insist a jacket is worn.

People can have more fun at fancy dress occasions as they allow for more creativity. Children and adults enjoy dressing up for these events, and home constructed creations are more than welcome. The theme sets the standard for the outfits that are to be worn. It is not in very good taste to ignore a theme and not dress up for these events.

Black tie events are arguably the most formal occasions, and most people do not attend these very regularly. Awards ceremonies and even some fashion shows are examples of where this dress code should be followed. Women are usually in long dresses but they are more elaborate than formal occasions. Men generally wear tuxedos to these events, and some opt for top hat and tails for greater effect.

The dress code for cocktail parties is both comfortable and fashionable. Although most women will wear short dresses they are also permitted to wear skirts or trouser if they like. It is still a trendy scene and the outfits still impressive. Men are afforded a bit more leeway with being allowed an opportunity to wear open shirts but long pants and decent shoes are still required. The brief is comfort and fashion.

People are given parameters for the clothes they wear to events by dress codes. Formal and black tie events call for long dresses whereas cocktail parties give a bit more latitude. Smart casual outfits are the order of the day when eating out. Hats are common for the party at the horse races.

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