Wear Jeans to a Wedding?

“Can we wear jeans to a wedding?”  I usually ask my participants and I will be greeted with some uncertain ‘no….’

This topic usually arise when we cover Dress Code.  There are several Dress Codes such as White Tie, Black Tie, Formal, Business Casual, Smart Casual and Casual.  So which dress code do you think we should wear to a wedding?

In Singapore’s context, I would place it under Smart Casual.  Many do not realise that Smart Casual exclude jeans.  Jeans fall under Casual.  The lighter the colour of the jeans, the more casual it will appear.  Needless to say, those ripped jeans are definitely casual!

Dressing well at an event is a respect for yourself and doing so at a wedding is a respect for the couple’s most important day of their lives.  Put yourself in the couple’s shoes; would you like your friends or relatives to attend this important day, which you have been planning for a year, in jeans? (see guest on right in the photo)  On the same note, guests in cargo pants, bermudas and singlets are most disrespectful too!

Ladies should apply makeup and look presentable whether they come in a dress, pants, pantsuit etc.  Over the top sexy dresses should be avoided as it will seem inappropriate for such a respected event where there will be a lot of elders and children around.  You wouldn’t want to be the talk of town for the wrong reason or divert the attention for the evening to you. 

For those not used to dressing up, you have to accept the fact that when an invitation to a wedding is extended and you intend to attend, it will require a little imagemakeover to style your hair and to find that appropriate outfit.  Whenever unsure, it’s encouraged to dress up (Formal) rather than dress down!  Happy Dressing up!

About the Author : Sherrine Teoh is the Principal Image Consultant with Image and You Consultancy.  She runs regular training for corporations and institutions as well as Individual Consultations on Personal Grooming, Dressing and Social Etiquette.

 

Why do I need an Image Consultant?

You are responsible for the image you project and the success it will bring you.  We live in a visual society and before you can prove yourself with your capabilities, you are being judged from the impression you give others.  If you hear any of the following feedbacks from people around or at times when you are honest with yourself, you should reflect on the next steps to take.

1.       This outfit is not YOU!

2.       You look quite good in it but something is not right.

3.       Somehow this colour makes you look old but what colour should we choose for you?

4.       This cut is very nice but somehow it doesn’t look good on me.

5.       I think you need an image consultant!

6.       I think you need a personal image consultant for an image revamp!

 

There are many reasons why an individual needs an Image Consultant at any point of their lives in Singapore.  It could be a fresh graduate starting out a new job, a job promotion, an executive wanting to move up the corporate ladder, mid life crisis, mums returning to work or just to look current & stay competitive. 

Below are reasons why you need an Image Consultant.

1.       You have a lot of clothes but nothing to wear.

2.       You have a lot of clothes with price tag still intact but never got around to matching them with the rest of your wardrobe.

3.       You enjoy shopping but often buying similar designs repeatedly.

4.       You tend to buy the same design in various colours and  dare not step out of this comfort zone.

5.       You know your style but get confused what colours suit you best.

6.       You know you have some body flaws but wish you know your bodyshape better to help you have a complete understanding of yourself.

7.       You dress with a budget and like to know how you can fully utilize your current wardrobe.

8.       You need some help in taking that first step to improving your image without going over the top.

9.       Makeup makes a difference but you are concern about having too much or not applying them correctly.

10.   You are socially shy and needs guidance in appropriate behaviour and feeling at ease with yourself such as at events or dining situations.

If any of the above reasons has kept you wondering each time you shop or meet people, we can help you in the first step of finding yourself and building that confidence!

About the Author : Sherrine Teoh is the Principal Image Consultant with Image and You Consultancy.  She runs regular training for corporations and institutions as well as Individual Consultations on Personal Grooming, Dressing and Social Etiquette.