Decoding Brazilian dress codes

Ever been invited to a party in Sao Paulo? If so, then you know exactly what I mean. They are constantly moving the goalposts when it comes to party dress codes. The only way to keep up is to follow Sao Paulo fashion week for its pronouncements on what is appropriate for social gatherings.

Black Tie

Gender equality rules so for women, this literally means a black bow tie. The classic look includes a long elegant gown. For men, shorts of the checked variety are pretty much de rigeur. I'm sorry but there is no other way.


Creative Black Tie

This dress code allows you to come up with the most creative way you can wear something black. This usually entails one or more of the following: feathers, fur or fins. Pair with an expression of supreme satisfaction at having worked this one out.

Dressy Casual

A dress is almost always involved. To make it dressy, splash buckets of paint all over it. To make it casual, carefully select shoes that clash but quite unintentionally so.

Cocktail

Short dress and boobs out. In other words, it is the same as in any other jurisdiction.

Jacket & Tie

The good news for guys here is that pants are entirely optional. This will continue to be so for some time until somebody breaks down into a quivering mess and finds the whole thing beyond unnatural. Don't look at me, I don't set the rules. I'm just telling it like it is.

Semi-formal

Start off with hair that is immaculately blow-dried and a formal, if even morticianary, approach to makeup. Accessories should also have the requisite amount of tackiness. However because the dress code is not totally formal, you are also free to unleash your most comfortable pants upon the world at large.

Casual/Informal

Minimal preparation time needed. Depending on the pattern of your duvet cover, most people find that they can roll out of bed and head straight to the proceedings.

Another blog to visit: Diary of an Obssessed Shoe and Handbag Designer - NY, Paris, Ibiza, London, Hong Kong... Check in with the Divine Miss B to see where she pops up this week!