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| Sunday, 26 September 2004 |
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Features |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
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Dressing right With Sri Lanka's ever-burgeoning social and corporate events calendar, there is one big question that transcends every event: "What do I wear?" Men especially are often unprepared and come to events clueless of what the suggested dress style implies. No wonder - when the answer to this question varies according to dress code jargon used such as lounge, smart casual and dressy etc. And since each style is unique to the venue and the people attending, it is important to match the proper dress with the correct circumstance to make the maximum positive career and social impact. Invitations comprising the phrasing 'a few drinks' are typically suggestive of the most casual form of dress as these parties/events have an anything goes attitude meaning jeans, t-shirts or any clothes that are very casual, even gym clothes. When casual is specified, the clothes are also suggested to be casual to a degree with relaxed, informal attributes such as t-shirts, running shoes, jeans, sportswear, etc. It is the lowest of the semi formal styles and are for occasion where the outfit has to be seen but to be gawked at. A step above casual is smart casual. Involving collard shirts, belts, loafers, boots, chinos and designer jeans, this dress style allows for the wearer to show off their glamorous side and up market clothing choices such as casual designer wear and dressy wear. Dressy is a word included in an invitation typically suggests extravagance and dressing up. It is the gold standard of semi formal dress codes as it is the closest thing to being formally attired. It encourages the use of layers of luxury and lushness to enhance one's persona with a glamorous look as cocktail parties, chamber/orchestra recitals or, in fact, any occasion. Typically encompassing ensembles involving trousers, collard shirts, sports jackets with optional tie choice, single or double breasted jacket with tie, oxford style shoes, and/or ankle high boots. The option to wear coloured shirts and bold ties is also perfectly style-conscious, especially at events such as weddings, engagements and high profile parties. Implying the tastefully distinguished middle ground between Dressy and Black Tie, the Formal/Lounge/National dress code is the universally understood style for any formal event. This highly sophisticated option requires a classy dinner jacket and matching trousers. The suit should be absolutely black and a waistcoat is also a nice and welcomed touch. This style is used often at corporate functions as a sign of refinement and professionalism. A Black Tie event, requiring formal evening attire, is often the high point of any social season. This type of occasion is usually very elaborate with high society connotations and hard-to-get invitations. Black tie is usually only requested under very special circumstances at events such as State functions. Embassy balls, Awards ceremonies, opening nights at the Opera/Ballet. Male guests must wear dinner jackets or tuxedos. Dressing right is very important for corporate and social functions as visual cues are paramount with regard to first impressions. There are many who suggest that over dressing is always a viable option. While others suggest that casual is the way to go. The truly adept realise that fashion, just like every other detail of life, is a personal statement. Therefore those who are impeccably dressed carry within them an aura of self confidence and readiness which showcases their professional attitude-in many cases clothes do make the man. - Courtesy Odel |
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