Editorials — Dress Code

White tie calls for a floor-length gown and traditionally long gloves; black tie for a polished evening gown; semi-formal for an elegant midi or cocktail dress, with room for a simpler full-length ...

The invitation sets the dress code; the room tells you how to wear it. How to dress for an awards night, a theater premiere and a milestone celebration, whether hosting or attending.

Lighter than black tie, more spirited than daywear: how to read cocktail attire, and dress for it, across the season’s three key evenings.