Cocktail – this means short dress/skirt for ladies and a great dark suit for men. Ties aren’t necessary for the guys for cocktail parties. Women will want to get out the LBD (Little Black Dress) for this event.

Festive – this is a look that will be on a lot of holiday party invitations. This means something that has some sparkle or a holiday feel. It if is a New Year’s party, ladies should wear that sequined tank top that is hiding in the back of her closet. Men, if you must, this is when you wear the Santa socks and tie. You might see ‘festive casual,’ this would imply that jeans are OK, and a good occasion for ladies to wear a bedazzled sweater.

Casual – the simplest event, this means anything goes. Consider the time of day (more casual for daytime), and the occasion. For example, a birthday gathering for a child is going to be more casual than a holiday party.

Dressy Casual – a dressed up version of casual, meaning the guys should put on a sport coat with dressy jeans, and ladies could wear a patterned skirt with a denim jacket. It would be inappropriate to wear shorts, or anything too sexy to a ‘dressy casual’ event.

Informal – this is possibly the most misunderstood kind of party attire. Many think this means casual, and are regrettably underdressed. Informal is the same at semi-formal. Men should wear a sport coat, and ladies should keep attire modest, especially when the event is a wedding.

Picnic Attire – this is a definite casual event. An invitation that says ‘picnic attire’ generally means you should bring your own seat (blanket, folding chair), and of course shorts are appropriate. Since chances are you are going to be sitting on the ground (or close to it), ladies should be conscious of this when choosing an outfit (i.e. steer clear of any potential wardrobe malfunctions with short shorts or skirts).

Beach Attire – similar to the picnic attire event, this invitation implies there will be a pool, or the event is at the beach. Be prepared to swim. This does not mean; however, you should wear your bathing suit to the event, unless it is under your street clothes.

Tea – finally the tea party. I am guilty of hosting several events that were dubbed an ‘afternoon tea and style show.’ This is a very ladylike event, and generally is a nice way of saying “no men or children are invited.” Wear your most feminine outfit. Skirts or dresses are the most appropriate; however, pants are fine too. Jeans can also work for this kind of event, if they are done right. Wear your jeans only if paired with a very feminine styled jacket or sweater.