"Black tie? Cocktail? Semi-formal?" Every invitation has a dress code — and it decides your dress length, fabric and formality. This guide decodes each women's dress code, shows what to wear, and links you straight to the right dresses.
Women's dress codes at a glance
| Dress code | Formality | Dress length | Typical occasions |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Tie | Most formal | Floor-length gown | State events, formal galas, opera |
| Black Tie | Very formal (evening) | Floor-length or elegant maxi | Evening weddings, galas, awards |
| Black-Tie Optional / Formal | Formal | Maxi or dressy midi | Formal weddings, benefits |
| Cocktail | Semi-formal (elevated) | Knee-length or midi | Cocktail parties, receptions, dinners |
| Semi-Formal | Dressy but relaxed | Knee-length to midi | Daytime weddings, work parties |
| Festive / Holiday | Fun-formal | Mini to midi, sparkle welcome | Holiday parties, NYE |
| Casual / Daytime | Relaxed | Mini or sundress | Brunch, garden parties, showers |
What each dress code means (and what to wear)
Black-tie attire for women
The classic evening formal code. Wear a floor-length gown or a polished, elegant maxi in a rich fabric — satin, chiffon, velvet or subtle sequin. Yes, you can wear black; jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, burgundy) also shine. Skip anything casual, short-and-flirty, or daytime-printed.
Shop: black-tie dresses · maxi dresses · satin · sequin
Formal attire for women
A step softer than strict black tie — a floor-length gown works, but a dressy midi or elegant maxi is equally appropriate. Elevated fabrics and refined details; keep it sophisticated.
Shop: formal dresses · maxi · midi
Cocktail attire for women
The most-requested code — polished but playful. Wear a knee-length or midi dress: bodycon, satin, lace or a little sequin all work. Not floor-length (too formal), not casual. A go-anywhere sweet spot for weddings, parties and dinners.
Shop: cocktail dresses · bodycon · midi · white cocktail
Semi-formal attire for women
Dressy but relaxed — a notch below cocktail. A knee-length or midi dress in a nice fabric is perfect; you can lean simpler than cocktail. Great for daytime weddings, dinners and work celebrations.
Shop: midi dresses · wedding guest · satin
Festive attire for women
Cocktail with permission to sparkle. Sequin, metallic, velvet and jewel tones are the whole point. Mini or midi both work — bring the shine for holiday parties and New Year's Eve.
Shop: sequin dresses · velvet · party
Casual & daytime attire
Relaxed and easy — a mini, floral or sundress for brunches, garden parties and bridal showers. Comfortable fabrics, softer prints, nothing stiff.
Shop: floral dresses · mini · bridal shower
What to wear, by occasion
Dress code FAQ
What is black-tie attire for a woman?
A floor-length gown or an elegant, polished maxi in a formal fabric (satin, chiffon, velvet, subtle sequin). Black is welcome, as are jewel tones. Avoid short, casual or daytime-print dresses.
What's the difference between cocktail and semi-formal?
Both sit around knee-to-midi length, but cocktail is a touch more elevated and event-driven (parties, receptions), while semi-formal is a little more relaxed and common for daytime. When in doubt, cocktail dresses cover both.
Can you wear black to a black-tie wedding?
Yes — a black floor-length or elegant maxi is a classic, safe black-tie choice. Just keep it formal and evening-appropriate rather than casual.
What length dress for each dress code?
White tie & black tie = floor-length/maxi; formal = maxi or dressy midi; cocktail & semi-formal = knee-length to midi; festive = mini to midi; casual = mini or sundress. See the length chart above.
What is cocktail attire for a wedding?
A knee-length or midi dress in a refined fabric — satin, lace or a little sparkle. Not floor-length (save that for black tie) and not casual. Add heels and simple jewellery.
Find the right dress for your dress code
Now you know the code — shop the dress. Most styles under $80, new arrivals weekly.
Shop all dresses →Still deciding on fit? See our dress size guide.