I told you I would be back!

One of the problems that I have seen a lot of people struggle with is understanding the dress code. What does dressy casual mean? How do I dress "nice"? It is hard to walk the fine line between being underdressed and overdressed. That is why I am here! I am going to break down the dress code so that you can find the perfect outfit for that special occasion.

In case you are celebrating New Year's Eve with a special get together with friends, I decided to provide this guide on what to wear. All of these outfits are appropriate to wear for New Year's Eve depending on the type of celebration that you are going to. You want to bring in the new year looking your best, so I am going to help you make the start of 2018 an unforgettable experience!

Each Dress Code will come with an occasion in which the dress code would most likely be implemented, different types of clothing that would work with the dress code, and an example of a complete outfit from my personal wardrobe.

The Occasion:
Dressy Casual is usually for small get-togethers such as a backyard BBQ party, an intimate get together, or a first date. The purpose of this dress code is to look classy and chic in casual clothing -- clothes that can be worn outside that wouldn't seem too out of place. It is a step up from your usual everyday clothes.
Women:
For dressy casual, there are two routes a girl can take. You can go with jeans and a frilly, flowy blouse OR a short midi dress. If you choose to go with a two piece outfit, wear a top that has a lot of detail/frill/flow. Do not throw on your favorite band t shirt or a plain sweater. That takes away from the "dressy" part of this code. Wear a top that makes a statement and shows some elegance. For a short midi dress, you can choose to go with a skater dress, romper, or button up shirt dress. Find a dress that has some patterns (not too loud or distracting) to add a "fun" element to the outfit. For shoes, wear a converse style sneaker, sandal heels, or flats.
Men:
Men should wear jeans or khaki pants (I prefer guys to wear khakis over jeans, but that is personal preference). A long pant is essential for this dress code. Shorts are never classy or suitable for an occasion unless it is an outdoor event. For a shirt, guys can wear a t shirt. The cut out for the t shirt neckline could be v neck or round (depending on the body type). For slimmer males, a v neck cutout flatters the collarbone structure and broadens the shoulders. For bulkier males, a dark solid t shirt with a round neckline is perfect. Do not wear t shirts that are too tight or too loose for the body. Make sure the t shirt fits properly! This t shirt cannot be any plain old t shirt. This must be a t shirt with a nice all-over print or a solid color. No band or graphic tees here! Another option is wearing a polo shirt. A polo shirt has a collar and adds a level of classiness to the outfit. To accessorize, you should wear nice sneakers and a watch.
My Outfit:
I am wearing an Ann Taylor button up striped dress. This dress is perfect for a special outing with friends or your special someone. I like this dress because it's free flowing and fun! The stripes make this look a little bit more interesting and I paired it with some white sperry sneakers to keep this look casual.






The Occasion:
Cocktail attire is usually for dinners, special events, and parties. The purpose of this dress code is to look more sophisticated, elegant, and classy. Cocktail attire is a step up from dressy casual.
Women:
For Cocktail attire, women should opt for a midi dress or a blouse and skirt. The hemline for cocktail attire is usually above the knee so break out those razors ladies! Mid length dresses that have a solid or sophisticated print is highly suggested. Cocktail attire is meant to be fun! Choose dresses that accentuate features of your body. If you have curves, you should definitely wear a bodycon dress. If you do not (like me), don't fret! Wear a short elegant dress. If you are stuck on what is considered elegant or not, you can always play it safe with a "little black dress" For accessories, break out the special occasion jewelry and your favorite heels. Shoes such as a sandal heel or a low heel is perfect for cocktail attire.
Men:
Men should only wear a khaki pant or dress pant for cocktail attire. Sorry boys, but jeans don't cut it in the cocktail attire dress code. With cocktail attire, it is suggested that men should wear either a button up collared shirt or a dress shirt. When I say button up collared shirt, this does not mean a flannel. I have witnessed this mistake before. Yes, a flannel is a button up and has a collar, but that is not the same thing as what I am referring to. Flannels are made of a thicker material while these button up shirts are usually thinner. These button up shirts can either be solid or patterned. The patterns must maintain some level of sophistication so avoid any shirts that appear loud (ex. no floral prints, that's a Hawaiian shirt). Button up collared shirts or white dress shirts are an essential part of this dress code. As for accessories, a nice dress shoe and a watch is perfect to fit the occasion.
Outfit:
As I said before, you can never go wrong with a "little black dress." This little black wrap dress is from H&M. It is a perfect knee length dress that flatters my flat body shape lol. I paired the dress with a pair of short black kitten heels to make this look a little bit more that your average dressy casual outfit.







The Occasion:
Formal attire is usually for parties, dances, and galas. The purpose of this dress code is to overdress and look as elegant as possible. This is definitely a dress to impress event.
Women:
For formal attire, women should wear a maxi floor length dress. Formal attire usually calls for a trendy gown that could range from a line to bodycon. Depending on your body type, different cuts of a dress would be more flattering for you. A guide on which dress is best suited for you can be found here. As for accessories, dresses like these are often paired with a clutch, statement necklace, and studded earrings. Shoes can be heels or pumps.
Men:
Men should wear a suit/tuxedo. Depending on how formal this event is, it may call for a tuxedo (usually for galas or black tie weddings). For the most part, suits are usually the go-to option. Put on some nice dress shoes and suit up!
My Outfit:
I took the unconventional/creative route for the formal dress code, but it still works. I purchased this black jumpsuit at Charlotte Russe and it has the same effect as a black maxi dress. The deep v neck cutout and choker neckline adds a bit of fun to this simple piece. I topped it off with a Charming Charlie clutch and a pair of dangly earrings. As for shoes, I am wearing a sparkly rhinestone studded heel. Because the jumpsuit is a solid color, it is important to accessorize with fun pieces to make your outfit eye-catching!






If you want some makeup ideas, check out my last post!

I hope you guys find this post helpful. You can wear whatever you want this New Year's. Even if its pajamas, as long as you are rocking your stuff and feeling confident, you win the game! Who are you spending your New Year's Eve with? With friends? With family? Or with Ben and Jerry and some Netflix? Whatever you have planned, I hope that 2018 is an amazing and prosperous year for you all. As always, I truly appreciate readers like you and I hope to continue blogging for years to come. Cheers!

Always including a silly photo b/c this is what my face looks like atm!!