There are many factors to keep in mind when dining in restaurants; the dress code is one of them. Each restaurant has its dress code that you’ll have to follow. But first, you have to know what each dress code means. This is both so you would fit the scene and have fun while you’re doing it.
It is important to choose a restaurant that reflects the environment you will feel comfortable in. There is a wide range of dress codes from formal to casual. Explore the dress codes you are aware of, of course, they’re no hard and fast rules. The only rule is that you dress in whatever makes you feel comfortable and best. Let’s see some of the restaurant dress codes you’ll come across, what you should do, and what you should avoid.
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Casual
Don’t: A casual dress code at a restaurant is a little vague. Going out to dine means dressing a touch more elevated than something you’d be wearing while cooking at home. Since this is the least dressy dress codes, it’s open to interpretation, but we’d probably avoid wearing head-to-toe active-wear. If a restaurant has labeled their dress code as casual, then dress casual. But their casual may not mean what you wear at home or to run errands. Don’t wear any wrinkly clothes or anything you’ve worn before that week.
Do: The idea is to be comfortable but polished. You’re aiming for that effortlessly chic look that seems as if you just threw on an outfit and strolled out the door while looking supremely stylish. A pair of jeans and a nice top with a pair of sling-back mules or a flowing midi skirt, cropped top, flat sandals with a bucket bag and you’re ready for a delightful dinner. Be comfortable. Casual means comfortable, yet polished. A Polo shirt or a simple t-shirt will do just fine. Some jeans or chino pants, along with your favorite shoes will complete the look. Keep in mind that wearing black, dark blue, or gray is always a good idea.
Business Casual
Don’t: For a casual dinner, a pair of sleek jeans can be considered acceptable in business settings. Business casual can be a very ambiguous category. It is fancier than casual but more relaxed than your formal settings. One of the most embarrassing things you’ll experience is if you’re wearing a tuxedo in a place where everyone is dressed in a more relaxed way.
Do: Business casual may seem obscure for a restaurant. It is easy to understand as it’s what one would typically wear to work. While that concept can become a little hazy for those who wear trendier outfits to the office, the idea is to maintain a professional and elegant appearance. This brings to mind a tailored pants, oversized blazer, and graphic tee with a pair of simple loafers. It looks sophisticated and stylish, but not overly stuffy. Dress professional. If you’re dining with clients or coworkers, or just meeting someone in general, you want to look a certain way that is a bit impressive. You still have to be comfortable, yet fancy. A collared shirt, a blazer, pants or trousers, and some black shoes work well.
Casual Elegant
Don’t: This category is heavy on the elegant and light on the casual.
Do: The elegant means adding a stylish dramatic flair to a typical evening outfit for a night out. Go for a silk slip dress, wrap, mules, and a clutch to fit the casual elegant. This outfit will draw compliments all night.
Formal
Don’t: Instead of your daily fashionable look, use this as an excuse to ditch your beloved jeans and wear the outfit of your dreams. This dress code requires you to wear your best attire. Don’t think that wearing a casual shirt or a polo shirt is okay. You can never overdress for this occasion, unless you wear something out of this world, of course!
Do: Formal occasions are so few and far. It requires cocktail dresses, suits, or gowns with the ability to spice it up per your style. Go for sleek long dresses, a slight heel and a top-handle bag for the dining outfit. Your outfit is sure to be just as exquisite as the meal, if not more so. Dress your best. The formal standard is quite straightforward. It requires you to wear your best Tuxedo, along with some shiny black shoes, and I can’t stress this enough, a tie! Not only does this dress code demand you to be preppy, but if you’re going to RSVP, then you must follow the dress code. If it is a white tie invitation, then you might have to wear a full dress, a white tie, a shirt, and a vest. A black-tie invitation requires less elegance but is formal nonetheless.