Coming up to the SALIFE Absolute Best Awards, presented in partnership with Brand SA, we dive into dress codes. Because between black tie and cocktail, there’s a divide wider than a Met Gala dress train.

The Met Gala in this century has a lot to answer for, as does the trend in beach weddings.

So, now with the lines of the dress code more blurred than an Instagram filter, should women just wear a taffeta parachute à la Gaga and men not bother with a shirt at all?

At the risk of committing a faux pas one can’t come back from, following the tried-and-true guidelines is the best approach.

There will of course be nuances, so when planning an outfit:

– Ask for more detail around the dress code – one person’s black maxi skirt is another’s tulle tutu.

– Consider the location and the weather – the lush lawns of a French-inspired chateau are rarely stiletto-friendly, while a breezy location is better tackled in a pant suit. On a hot day, defer to flowy gowns rather than fitted to stay cooler and avoid sweat marks.

– Consider location again and the host – what’s regarded as ‘dressed up’ in Australia might be underdressed in London, Singapore or other cultures. Do an online search of local social pages to get a feel for the fashion.

– Remember it’s better to be overdressed than under.

– Dress for the end-time of an event – a 4pm celebration likely requires evening attire.

– Pay attention to fabrics and accessories – these can be the difference between black tie and formal/black tie optional dressing.

Now onto a quick decoding of women’s dress codes. (Sorry men, for this you’re on your own!

White tie

Floor length ballgown, preferably couture; conservative silhouette; no toes showing; heirloom jewellery; clutch bag

Black Tie

Full length gown or spectacular pant suit; luxurious fabrics, such as silk and velvet; heels or kitten heels; eye-catching accessories, clutch bag; no ankles showing, freshly pedicured toes are fine.

Formal, black tie optional or lounge suit

As for black tie but less conservative; shorter hemline, but no knees showing; experiment with different silhouettes, textures, colours; killer heels or block heels; shoulder or clutch bag.

Cocktail, semi-formal or after five

Party dress (but keep it classy when above the knee) or a slip dress, skirt and top, jumpsuit, pant suit or palazzo pants; make a statement with a striking silhouette, bold prints or colour; bigger accessories; heels or flats, depending on the outfit, but make sure they dress it up, not down; bag to complement or match.

Smart casual

Dress of any length – in a daytime fabric, such as cotton, linen or silk blend – or a jumpsuit, pants and blazer or skirt and top combo; no jeans unless requested; heels, flats or wedges.

Now you have the dress code mastered – join us to celebrate SALIFE’s 20th year and the 2023 SALIFE Absolute Best Awards, presented by Brand SA.

The winners of this year’s Absolute Best Awards will be announced on December 7 at a glittering ceremony at the Adelaide Festival Theatre.

Afterwards, the winners, hundreds of VIPs, guests and the SALIFE team will kick off the celebrations at a fantastic open air after-party on Festival Plaza. Everyone is invited – purchase your ticket here.

There’ll be wines flowing from Bird in Hand, craft beers from Vale Brewing and a gin bar courtesy of 23rd Street Distillery.

Enjoy fabulous finger food and design from Out In The Paddock, plus entertainment that will keep the party vibes going late into the night.

Tickets include entrance to the award ceremony and after party, including all food and drinks.

Purchase your tickets now.