What to Wear to Your Special Event | Attire Guide & Glossary

Sharing what to wear to those special occasions! Including black tie, semiformal, casual, etc. Thank you so much for watching. Your support means the world to me! ~Erin xo
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Preliminary Questions | 01:47
Attire Glossary | 06:22
Casual | 06:27
Semi-Formal | 06:42
Beach Formal | 06:54
Cocktail | 07:25
Black Tie Optional | 07:50
Black Tie | 08:43
White Tie | 09:16
ALL DRESSES | rstyle.me/+ltt7yY96uvRfY4qqum...
CASUAL DRESSES | rstyle.me/+9zpXgnODTZuVVYIq0S...
COCKTAIL DRESSES | rstyle.me/+PwLdXp-DeQaUYGQqYO...
FORMAL DRESSES | rstyle.me/+mlJDS8vngwcxLFKLFn...
BEACH/VACATIOND RESSES | rstyle.me/+LH2vx5siOdu-V9X67I...
MORE WEDDING GUEST DRESSES | rstyle.me/+ulVWg4VldtC4H0uAOW...
ALEXIS DRESSES | rstyle.me/+PmhLUk3JY-ZLX54mnI...
THURLEY DRESSES | rstyle.me/+U6uThQJfpBv9ZZ5BAZ...
BARDOT DRESSES | rstyle.me/+l-AKc6NvY1CvBDqws4...
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*DISCLOSURE: I use affiliate links. That means IF you buy something through one of my links, I make a small percentage of revenue. Thank you for supporting me and my mission to help make style and shopping simple. ~Erin xo

[@ekaterinakozlovskaia8082]

Hi Erin! Thank you so much! Great video as always, very informative and full of wonderful ideas!

[@venessavanschalkwyk5219]

Love ALL your videos, Erin!! I am a big fan!

[@novanorman1091]

Thanks for the info... I’ve never had anyone explain Special Occasions. I appreciate it!

[@nedrahandy5969]

Thank you so much for this video...you took a lot of guesswork out of dressing for a special occasion. I love your channel!!!

[@kimberleeebabcock3002]

Thanks Erin! I wish I would have had this a year ago when my son got married! Their attire was "black tie tropical". At a Botanic Garden but formal. I ended up going with a solid green one shoulder gown which I liked. Lots of flowery gowns and dresses though!!

[@debwlv]

You are so good at what you do! I am loving watching your videos. This particular one was just as good as all of your others----thoughtful, helpful, informative, kind, encouraging and entertaining. Thank you for all the information and for conveying it in such an enjoyable, entertaining way.

[@teresavaughan3588]

Good job breaking it down. Very helpful information and something to refer to for future use!

[@SweetLifeHousewife]

Thanks for posting this! I love your tip about the time of day making it more or less formal! I have a daytime graduation and wasn’t sure, but now I’m confident in my outfit choice!🙋🏼‍♀️

[@miscellaneous7151]

Thanks for this guide! It’s incredibly helpful.

[@hollyarnold1874]

Great timing! I have our twins graduation and a wedding coming up in the next few weeks! Thanks!

[@danielles7476]

Your head band was adorable!!!! Thanks for all the advise!❤️

[@michaelehall4354]

Erin, this was an excellent and informative video. It’s good for novices who are just starting to attend events as well as a reminder to those who just want to feel sure about what they should wear. When I was in the fashion business this was one of the questions I was asked most often. And you have nailed it!!

[@lisablack9634]

Alot of great information. Appreciate your time and tips.

[@suesantomai1082]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart! I really appreciate this!!!

[@Turtles352]

Yes, I get the anxiety of what to wear to events. Recent was to a friends daughter’s wedding, bought several dresses. Found one at a thrift store a couple of weeks prior, knew it was the one. Thanks Erin

[@lovemychacha]

Very helpful video Erin! I also love a great Bardot dress!

[@vinavaillancourt1433]

Always love your video ❤️

[@ruthtorphy2204]

Great tips, Erin.

[@marietencer1262]

Such great ideas, Erin, thank you!

[@ambra8957]

This was super helpful! I am always stressing out when I have either a work occassion or special event. Now I know what to ask myself to make the best choice. Thanks! 👍💜

[@BusbeeStyle]

Nancy Comtois , I appreciate you more than you can know! Thank you for watching! ~Erin xo

[@donnastevens5515]

Hi Erin thank you really enjoyed this clip so many outfits loved them all and classy they are Donna xx

[@suzanneberrios4328]

Another great video Erin, thank you! In addition to all the helpful information, I love to watch your fashion show! You are so beautiful and obviously take great care of yourself. My one suggestion would be for ladies to make sure that any formal dresses they buy allow for them to be returned if not worn. Some do not. Wouldn't want anyone to get caught with that. Thank you again for sharing your wisdom with us 😊

[@sparkleafter50]

Great tips and love the way you broke down the different dress codes. I would like to add that if the occasion presents itself for a white tie event, err on the more formal side. Hollywood glam is a bit more casual than traditional white tie . It is customary to cover the shoulders and wear floor length for white tie. Just in case one is invited to a royal event :)

[@mobe494]

Great information Erin!👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Enjoy Paris!🥰

[@christinebird7272]

This is incredibly methodical and informative! It’s always a struggle to find the right clothes for these events and my boyfriend gets to wear the same suit to everything... haha.

[@MaryEllenAfter60]

Looking beautiful, Erin. You put so much work in your videos!! Thank you for all of the tips. Many blessings...MaryEllen

[@BusbeeStyle]

MaryEllen After 60 , I appreciate you more than you can know! Thank you for watching! ~Erin xo

[@leadingbyxample]

How did I miss this?? Great video, per usual!

[@menervaariki6418]

your hair style is fantastic

[@esther3193]

Thank you so much for sharing with me. Believe me it helps. ❤️🙏

[@kimberlyselley516]

Thank you This video was full of great info !

[@kellyhorton6872]

Your awesome!!! This was so useful. Thanks!

[@marciec6859]

Thanks! I've needed this info!

[@aria-vy5ug]

Thank you for this video! I'm actually graduating next week and I STILL don't have a dress...what would you advise?

[@jackiebluebeautytipsandjam20]

Great video and I love all these tips !!! ❤️

[@jcsoria1968]

Love your videos

[@akamelrod8872]

I use the "like" button as a bookmark of sorts... And this video gets a HUGE thumbs up! Definitely marked for future reference. Thanks Erin!

[@dianethompson9525]

I love it that you usually break things down into steps or guidelines!! You should do a Fashion for Dummies book!! This was very helpful-I always go into a tizzy over weddings and never feel like I picked the right thing to wear!!

[@BusbeeStyle]

That’s awesome! I have talked to a couple literary agents but books like that don’t sell well and it would be a huge time commitment. I AM coming out with a style guide soon!!

[@FloridaIsOneHellOfADrug]

Perfect! I’m going to a wine tasting after church today! I’m clueless?

[@marinekaspaaryan932]

Great video Erin! ❤ Love your content! Can you please do a video on great causal summer dress options? I don't wear shorts and always looking for great dress options❤ thank you!

[@BusbeeStyle]

That's a great idea! xo

[@HM279]

When I have a dress to buy, I always go to Carolina Herrera outlet...amazing cut and fabrics and for different occasions 😉

[@abradley8008]

This was very helpful 👍🏼

[@cyrinastluce4790]

Great video as always, but i suppose to go to a. 35 year high school reunion and there is a Gala dinner and dance which i am excited about but my problem is am not sure how to dress, what do you think.

[@dmissme911]

Thanks! I am enjoying coffee and watching! I have a HS reunion coming and I want to look Fashion forward but effortless! Can you do a forward fashion Effortless summer trends !

[@pamravenscroft4829]

Great video - thank you!! I love learning from you and taking pics is something I never thought of and it’s BRILLIANT!

[@AlexaStyleBook]

Maxi dresses is such an easy option. It's nice and flowy, always looks chic💋💋

[@saraswatkin9226]

Maxi dress look nice but not very flattering on most people.

[@karenketler3404]

Love your sleek hairstyle. Who does this cut for you? Thank you.

[@auregarza323]

Awesome tips ❤️

[@diannedballard2372]

Erin I wish you would address funerals. Family funerals, friend funerals, business funerals. It seems I always have one of those to go to and do not want to look disrespectful but do want to be stylish and self confident.

[@carolnewman8590]

I am your new fan, I love your videos, I also love clothes and like to look my best alI the time. Thank you! I have subscribed.

[@fionafrazer8820]

White tie? Your husband (?) was wearing a black tie!! White tie is worn with tails - the most formal all - don't think you see it much these days (except when meeting the Queen!!). Some good ideas here, although I'm constantly amazed at how casual (which often times means sloppy) the dress is at so many places.

[@mariafelix7932]

I love your haircut 😊

[@367Play]

I know this option isn’t as much fun,,but when considering budget, shopping our own closets might be an answer. Occasion wear is typically worn really infrequently and the people you see at one occasion may be completely different than those at the occasion you’re getting ready for. Style it fresh or pull together separates for a new look...and something might work. Again, waaaaay less exciting 😊

[@debbiegibson3604]

So true! Buy a good black dress and change your accesseries!

[@pamelaandpabloortiz6250]

Well dear Erin , you have helped us think of EVERYTHING involved in choosing that something special ! Such a well thought out and beautifully presented video !!! Pam ❤️👏👏👏👏

[@Lyfeinthemakin]

Great video, every woman needs to watch!

[@lyndawood7937]

This really does help us when deciding what to wear and not wear to any event.

[@BusbeeStyle]

Thank you SO much for watching! Erin xo

[@Style-ov5qb]

Great video -- thanks for the examples. As someone who has planned events for 20+ years, I think it is so unkind not to give as much info as possible to guests so they have a pleasurable experience, it's so important to have accurate dress code and any other pertinent info on the invitations. We have had cocktail receptions outdoors in tentsand gazebos, and always make sure to tell everyone so they know -- outdoors, no air conditioning, on pavement and grass -- I'd hate for someone to come wearing their fanciest cocktail attire/stilettos and not be comfortable. I went to a wedding at 6 PM at a "hunting and equestrian center" in February. No dress code info whatsoever, so I just punted and wore a really dressy all over navy lace cocktail dress and navy coat (think royal wedding minus the fascinator) with some nice jewelry. The parking area was gravel & 50 yards from the venue, no valet, no place to drop off passengers at the door ... so I pulled out my "emergency" flip flops and wore those from the parking lot to the paved sidewalk, and then swapped those for my fancy shoes. Several other ladies commented they wish they had been as prepared ;-). xo

[@pjalexandra]

Since so many events these days are informal this is lost information in our culture (unless you geek out and read old Emily Post or similar). Interesting to see it broken down in this way. I actually do have dresses for all occasions--i just forget which occasions they are for :)

[@marieaxen645]

Thanks for a very useful video! /Marie from Sweden

[@BusbeeStyle]

Thank you SO much for watching! Erin xo

[@curlitee]

Please make a spring/summer accessory video with just statement earrings, shoes and handbags. Love your channel btw

[@PatriciaMuirMaestroQ]

Hello Erin. I have a “women’s business” gala in November (Toronto, ON, Canada). The dress code is “black tie” even though there will be very few men attending. A one-event glittery cocktail dress or gown are out of the question for me. I do have a white linen oversized pant with long flowing matching linen coat and a black linen top with high voluminous neck and bottom hem cut on a deep angle. The outfit is striking and has been worn (once) at an island wedding. The best part is that it can be worn with flats. Would this outfit be acceptable for the time of year and event? Is there a style of jewelry to take it from beach formal to post-conference business gala?

[@nikkyhow3000]

Wish I would have seen this a few days ago. Went to an event and totally blew it with my outfit😪. I'll be ready for the next one though, thanks for this video!

[@DrPuff88]

Great video! I have a question: I recently attended a luncheon that was ‘yacht attire’. I couldn’t find much about it online, so I wore a navy wrap dress. The ladies were wearing everything from pants to cocktail dresses! For future reference, what would you recommend? Thank you! 😊

[@deeb8733]

I love what you wore. I think you were right on the money!

[@c12issy85]

What would you suggest for prom dresses or websites to look at? I have to get my middle schooler one? Don’t know where to start. Want something appropriate for her. Thanks

[@cynthiabrown5994]

Love Your Videos. Very detailed. Trying to find an outfit for a black-tie evening fashion show event. I don't wear anything that shows my knees and nothing backless. Can't do stilettos;3inch Shoes are ok.Event is 2nd wk of Dec.On a Sat. Would love to get some great tips from you 😀

[@BusbeeStyle]

Check out dresses from Black Halo: go.magik.ly/ml/19zu5/, Alfred Sung: go.magik.ly/ml/19zub/ and Eliza J: go.magik.ly/ml/19zue/ I bet you will find something stunning! xo

[@cynthiabrown5994]

@@BusbeeStyle Thank You So Much. 😊

[@anitaclemens2609]

Thank you, Erin. Sometimes, I am surprised at some women who dress in outfits that do not flatter their figures, but are the current style. For me, the most important thing is how does this flatter my figure. Does it fit in all the right places. Is it too tight or too loose. Does the color highlight my skin or make it look dull. Is it comfortable to wear or would I be dying to get out of it. Do I have the undergarments needed or do I need to shop for them. Do I have shoes/purse to match, or do I need to purchase them. And lastly, you are correct, does it make me feel beautiful and special, are you confident in wearing this outfit. BTW, I love your long green beach dress. When shopping for special occasions, I always go to the store to try things on. You can take in armfuls of dresses and sometimes, the least favorite dress is the one that looks and feels the best on you. I never thought of taking photos, but you are so right in this. Sometimes a color you think looks good on you, will make you look horrid in photos. I bought a red lace dress once and when I saw the photos, I thought, I am underwhelmed by this choice and never wore it again.

[@7777ddddssss]

Hi Erin! My solution is always to over-shop in a panic...then end up wearing something I already own! It's a pattern:) Great video! xo Diane

[@BusbeeStyle]

Haha I totally understand! xo

[@Dwightinho56]

many thx, this is a difficult field to navigate.

[@BusbeeStyle]

I agree! Thank YOU! xo

[@saraspadi]

I'm invited to a wedding in a month. It'll be located in swimming pool's location, very lovely place. I bought a 50's pink and red, midi floral dress. I thought about it so much and would like to be chic and glam at the same time. I'm going to pair nude shoes and clutch, don't want to put too much on over the floral pattern. What do you think about my choice? Thank you!! Love and follow all your videos

[@sheilanelson5973]

Dang it! I want that choker you're wearing! Don't tease us by wearing sold-out items, Erin! 😂😘

[@veronicamartinez9056]

Yes, I could n’t keep my eyes off that beautiful and stylish choker. Do share where you purchased and send the link for this beauty. 🥰

[@gsvchachy]

Hi Erin, whay about when the invitation says gala and nothing else. Is that black tie!? I asked myself all the questions you suggested and still cannot make up my mind...

[@cathycawley6097]

What do we wear as a wrap/jacket for a formal event?

[@NadiAtta1]

Thanks ✅😉

[@BusbeeStyle]

You're SO welcome, Nadi! xo

[@Ann4U2000]

What to wear to a high school graduation party? Daytime.... Would a jumpsuit with 3/4 sleeves and wedges do? Or be too much? It's black from the waist down and black and white polka dot from the waist up.

[@chelsiemorgan2693]

In my opinion, that sounds perfect!

[@Ann4U2000]

Thank you for replying. I ended up in black fitted slacks and a black and cream colored Cheetah print tank top and the same black leather wedges. I wore a lace cropped jacket over because it was cool here yesterday. I will wear the jumpsuit sometime ...it felt just a tad overly fancy . Most everyone else were in jeans...so I guess people don't dress up here for these types of gatherings. I felt like I looked appropriate. I do appreciate your response very much tho. 😊

[@slog4548]

Hi Erin, your makeup looks s great today. How about a makeup update that is non promotional? Your eyes look especially great.

[@christinevalentini5025]

Hi Erin, I just went through the comments to see if you have already answered this, but I didn't see it. I ADORE the pink lace dress that you wear in the cocktail and semi-formal segments and would love to try to find it for my sister's "cocktail attire" wedding in Colorado Springs this June. Please, oh please, can you tell me?

[@BusbeeStyle]

Look at the Bardot line... such beautiful dresses and affordable too!!!

[@BusbeeStyle]

It's a great dress, Christine! Unfortunately it's a few years old and no longer available, but here is a link to a similar one by the same designer: rstyle.me/+yDAHjYHZ0asxiX_M34aXIw

[@martystan2894]

Is formal the same as Black tie?

[@sharonworyn8024]

Is a great red dress acceptable for wedding attire? I've heard that you shouldn't wear red but I certainly don't know what the reason would be.

[@rhondimoerike8272]

Sharon Woryn bright reds are a power colour and depends on the culture. Some say red at a wedding means resentment of the bride or standing out to make a point. A soft/pale red could be acceptable. Some cultures red means wealth and is a sign of good luck for the couples future, others reds war off evil spirits. For your even go with their culture but if unsure talk to the bride or simply choose a different colour then red, have fun.

[@Fergalicious49]

You are so beautiful inside and out. There are so many fashion vloggers but I can't wait until your videos come out. I mean I wake up and run to my computer on Wednesdays and Sundays like a little kid. Hahahahahaha. So thank you for consistently putting out great content! God bless you.

[@kamingman6838]

Hi Erin, I would love to see you to give some ideas to dress very put together wearing flats! I am working as manager in luxury retail which means that I am always on my feets (8 hours). Sneakers and open toe shoes are not allowed. Thank you very much! Xxx

[@BusbeeStyle]

Working on a flats video for you today actually! xo

[@kamingman6838]

@@BusbeeStyle Thank you very much!!!! :-)

[@GRACE-oc6cy]

Here early 😄

[@evel.1546]

What about an outdoor garden wedding? My bonus daughter is getting married do I dress in the same color as the bridesmaids? What color is best? I know I want to go with wedges but the dress..😩 I don’t know if long or mid length..help 😊

[@BusbeeStyle]

Yay! Congratulations, Eve...how exciting! First off, I'd talk to her and see if she would like you in a specific color. The one thing to think about is pictures...if you don't match the bridesmaids you may want to at least blend/coordinate. Getting feedback from the bride on this is MOST important. I have some content on my website geared to mother's of the bride that will be helpful. Here is a link: busbeestyle.com/?s=bride&site_section=site-search

[@evel.1546]

@@BusbeeStyle you are so sweet!! Thank you for taking the time to read my comment and replying..I will check out your post, I’ve been following your channel for some time now you have the best content for women over 40 indeed. God Bless you ☺️🙏❤️

[@BusbeeStyle]

You're SO welcome! xo

[@magadalenanel7767]

Hi can I wear a white and black dress to a wedding

[@BusbeeStyle]

Yes, black and white is fine. xo

[@PineGeri]

What do you recommend for a 5’3” woman that doesn’t have a thin waist?

[@BusbeeStyle]

Thanks for watching, Geri! I would avoid anything too tight in the middle, but also avoid going too oversized that you lose all structure/shape. I do have a great "Hide Your Tummy" video if you haven't seen it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmXUm5d5q92kjck I'd also recommend determining what your particular body shape is, if you haven't yet. That's always the best place to start...Here's my video on body shapes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/en-no4mMpK2nd9k Hope this helps! xo

[@annetteanderson3375]

Speaking of color...not wearing certain colors at weddings. Like wearing red to a chinese/western wedding or white?

[@annshell7272]

I would love to see you style some kimono's

[@trisha3338]

Yes!!! I have 4 of them and would love to see some style ideas!!

[@lauriehutchinson791]

Online shopping is great. But dont forget traditional shopping. I just bought a dress for a wedding and I would not have picked it had I not tried it on!!!

[@AmeliaFiordelli]

What about a "formal wedding"? Morning event... Is that like "cocktail attire"?

[@rhondimoerike8272]

Amelia V to fit your description I'd suggest dress pant with a nice blouse, knee length skirt with nice form and silk/satin like top or long flowy shirt with an airy top. And because it's the am and formal I'd stay away from bold prints and very bright colours, soft and simple can be quite elegant. Hope this helps narrow things down for you, have fun.

[@amiralamb]

Knowing some people (non celebs) put this much thought into their outfits is kind of stressful. 😂

[@susanholl5994]

Great video! Really don't see the point of spending big money on and cluttering my closet with a dress I will wear once or twice. Cost/wear is ridiculous. First choice -rent the dress. I like rent the runway too. 2nd choice: sample sales! I'm often the sample size. 3rd choice: vintage/thrifted. Everyone else also wears dresses once or twice then dumps them. I like Komarov, Nue by Shani, Elie Tahari, some Reformation if it isnt too hoochie, then alter them myself since I'm super picky about fit.

[@iahorvath]

White tie also means men are invited to wear their decorations (medals) and ladies can wear tiaras. Think royal state dinners.

[@neshachristian-hendrickson5598]

What’s smart casual?

[@BusbeeStyle]

Think...blazer and jeans. Still casual, but dressed up a bit. xo

[@DGKED-td7mf]

What about pants?

[@BusbeeStyle]

Thanks for watching! Just shared a video on black pants last week: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inSWkIVuiZhlqqs

[@yaelbarkai7854]

Dressing codes is not something we have in my country. And if we do, its very unformal and not binding.

[@BusbeeStyle]

This is only seen at specific events, and even then can differ so much. Where do you live?? xo

[@yaelbarkai7854]

@@BusbeeStyle Israel

[@leashgang1]

Maybe it goes without saying but for Beach events you MUST get a pedicure because in real life you will be barefoot eventually!

[@deeb8733]

If I were invited to a beach wedding I would assume manicured bare feet ok.

[@marjoriemargel1567]

I grew up near a high end Beach area with many 5 star hotels. My advice in a setting like that would be to not be barefoot. High end weddings on the beach, maybe on the seating on the sand, go with a nice delicate feminine sandal. If there is a hotel nearby, sandals would be better.