Our first event in June is the much anticipated Midlands Media Awards which is our first black tie event of the year and always a good excuse for ladies to get on their glad rags!
Men’s evening wear may play
a starring role in enhancing its wearer but its role in enhancing a
special occasion is very much a supporting one. Echoing a romantic chivalry of days gone by, the
black-and-white uniform is deliberately designed to act as an
unassuming backdrop for the radiant couture and sensuous décolletage
displayed by guests of the fairer sex.
When it comes to black-tie
attire, the Debrett’s book notes that for women this dress code
today “is infinitely more complicated, as its presence on a card can
signify any level of dress, ranging from a little lycra number to
just sub-white-tie levels of splendour. The old clearly
defined distinctions between dinner and dance dresses have largely
disappeared and their place has been taken merely by confusion.”
The book’s subsequent advice is equally applicable on either
side of the Atlantic:
Thus it is important to
ascertain from the hostess what dress she is expecting. Good
hostesses could follow the lead of a well-known duchess, who sends a
written invitation to friends that includes a few short lines
dispelling any dress confusion: 'Saturday night is black tie, but
palazzo pants will be absolutely fine.’
The invitation itself will
also give clues. A simple drinks party from 6:30 to 8:30 will
require only a little black dress, while a more lavish affair to
celebrate someone’s twenty-first, which consists of drinks, dinner
and dancing, needs a much grander dress. As an inveterate
party-going friend says: ‘The greater the effort of the hostess, the
greater the level of formality expected of the guest.’
The choice of long or short dress can also be vexing. Traditionally long is
The choice of long or short dress can also be vexing. Traditionally long is
The choice today is largely based on what suits the wearer, her legs
and her relative age. Long is the preferred comfortable option
of older women, while young girls invariably feel more suited to
short. However, a long dress or skirt remains the safest
option for all, as it is always special, and appropriate to any
black tie event grander than a cocktail party. Best jewels,
with plenty of sparklers, can be worn, but obviously tiaras are
inappropriate.
Online, the Debrett’s
experts add that the dress need not be black and if it is short it
must not be “too short”.
So there you have it, and either way a good excuse to get all dressed up in style!
Short and sweet this week...enjoy!
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