Black tie/cocktail dress code

[NomenOmen]

I’ve got an event coming up and the dress code is a little confusing… formal, black tie/cocktail, although lounge suits or equivalent are appropriate… (says the blurb). Anyway, I’ve got a few dresses and would prefer not to buy anything new. Do you think I could wear this sequinned Whistles dress, or is it too “festive/seasonal”? It could be interpreted as cocktail-y…

Do you know the hosts well? Are they the kind of people who get dress codes bang on and care about it, or are they just 'normal' people?

It's a very nice frock and is cocktail-y, but it's at the fun end of cocktail rather than the black-tie-formal end. If your hosts are normal people, I'd say go with it, but if it is a posh work networking event or hosts are older/more formal, then maybe think of something longer.

Thank you for your reply.

Brilliant question… and hard to answer without outing myself! It’s an institutional event, so arguably (actually definitely!) on the latter side of your scale, but inasmuch as it is, there is no single “host” to offend or upset, if you see what I mean.

And I’m not remotely worried about networking.

It's a bit sparkly (and eighties) for an institutional black tie event.

80s! Funnily enough, I was also contemplating wearing a 60s a-line mini-dress (hot pink ) with a jewelled neck which used to belong to my mum. Clearly I’m tending retro…

I think both your outfit ideas sound amazing. The dress just looks a little odd on the photo because of the way the model is standing and her shoes. Looks pretty black tie to me - short and eveningy. You'll always come across better in something that is "you".

That is a confusing dress code! For black tie I would expect floor length dresses. However, I doubt anyone will make a fuss and if you're not worried about networking or making the 'right' impression/fitting in then go for it

@FromEnglandWithLove

That is a confusing dress code! For black tie I would expect floor length dresses. However, I doubt anyone will make a fuss and if you're not worried about networking or making the 'right' impression/fitting in then go for it

Floor length is required for white tie and is an option fior black tie - it depends on the nature of the event.

As this one has specified that cocktail dresses can be worn, I think you'll be absolutely fine in that short dress

I agree - white tie long, black tie cocktail plus.

I find now very few people wear a gown to black tie (even the invite doesn't seem to understand the difference between black tie and cocktail dress code!).

Dress looks fab, with killer shoes and hair/makeup, I say go for it.

I fi to nsby black tie events. It's perfectly fine. However if you have the slightest doubt then gibfir a black dress. Just so you feel more comfortable

Thank you very much everyone.