Formal and Etiquette Codes (Gala)

The rigor of the Formal code (Business Formal)

The Formal code is the uniform of corporate power, politics and serious events.

There is not much room for unbridled creativity; success lies in precision and quality.

For men, this invariably means wearing a complete suit (jacket and pants of the same fabric and color).

Accepted colors are dark: navy blue, oxford gray or charcoal gray.

Black is generally reserved for funerals or very specific evening events, not for everyday work wear.

The shirt should be light (white or sky blue), plain and with a stiff collar, always accompanied by a tie and dress shoes with laces (Oxford type).

For women, the formal code involves tailored skirt or trouser suits, or structured dresses with sleeves (or accompanied by a jacket).

The length of the skirt should be around the knee. Avoid plunging necklines, transparencies and very open sandals. The colors are sober and neutral.

Authority is communicated through the structure of the garment; fluid and volatile fabrics detract from formality.

It is the code of credibility, where clothing should not distract from the professional message.

The ultimate distinction: Etiquette Code (Gala)

When the invitation specifies "Etiquette", "Gala" or "Black Tie", we enter the realm of strict ceremonial protocol.

For men, the business suit is no longer sufficient; Smoking (Tuxedo) is required.

This is characterized by satin or silk lapels (black or midnight blue), pants with a satin side stripe, a shirt with a special collar for a bow tie and a cummerbund or vest.

The bow tie is mandatory, never a long tie. If the invitation says "White Tie" (the highest level, for state or royal dinners), tailcoat is required. For women, gala etiquette requires a floor-length dress.

The materials must be noble: silks, fine lace, brocades or velvets. This is the time for high jewelry and high and fine heels. The bag should be tiny (clutch or jewel type).

It is crucial to understand that in etiquette, elegance trumps fashion; it is not about wearing the most "trendy" or revealing dress, but the one that meets the canons of solemnity and distinction of the event.

Subtle Differences between Elegant and Formal

A "Formal" event is often confused with an "Elegant" event. The difference lies in the rigidity of the rules.

A Formal event (such as a daytime wedding or a diplomatic meeting) requires adherence to the rules of dark suit and tie.

An "Elegant" event (such as an anniversary dinner or an art opening) allows for more creative license.

In an "Elegant" but not strictly black tie context, a man might wear a lighter colored suit or a textured fabric, or even dispense with the tie if the suit is impeccably cut and accompanied by a pocket handkerchief (pochette).

The woman could wear a sophisticated cocktail dress (midi length) with glitter or asymmetrical design.

The key is that "Formal" implies uniformity and respect for hierarchy, while "Elegant" implies sophistication and good taste with a more personal touch. When in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of formality than to err on the side of formality.

Summary

The Formal code is the uniform of corporate and political power, requiring full dark suits. Authority is communicated through precise structure, avoiding creative distractions or vibrant colors in the message.

Black Tie represents the highest level of ceremonial solemnity. The man must wear smoking with mandatory tie, and the woman long dress of noble materials such as silk.

Formal implies strict uniformity, while Elegant allows creative licenses and personal sophistication. When in doubt about protocol, it is always preferable to err on the side of formality than to err on the side of respect.