The Polite One's Insights

  Proper Attire Etiquette Advice Q & A Most questions I receive, as an etiquette professional, concern attire choice.   Many are about what to wear to a wedding, especially for the mothers of the bride and groom.   Occasionally, questions are unique, like, "What to wear for a movie premiere".     From the flood of questions I receive about attire, it seems likely that you might have your own.   What follows are a few of my favorites.   Hopefully, your question will be answered here. What is proper attire anyway? Q: What is the definition of proper attire ? A: Proper attire is the expected clothing choice for places we share with others:   the public forum, function, or situation.  What is cocktail attire? Q: T he invitation states "cocktail attire" for the August evening wine and cheese engagement party for my son and his fiancée.   There are 100+ guests invited to this Louisiana party.   Most likely people wi...

  We have become a very casual society, which is positive in most situations. However, please dress up to attend live performances, such as ballet and opera. Although you may find others wearing jeans to the ballet or opera, it is in 'good taste' to dress up. Since many go to the ballet directly after work, in most cases, business attire is perfect.   Please avoid wearing jeans.   For Weddings Yes, wearing black for weddings is quite common now and very appropriate. It is no longer considered a faux pas.    More by the Polite One Casual is More Than One Style How should cotillion staff handle inappropriate attire? Are Good Manners Dead?