It's usually written on the invite or ticket, what is appropriate. i.e. black tie. So suit, shirt, tie and black shoes, cuff links and watch sorted.
But for us ladies not only is it the style and type of dress, it is also that we have every colour available to us. So we have to learn the knowledge of what colour actually suits you. Made a few horrendous mistakes, in my time. Plus you then have to co-ordinate underwear, shoes, handbag, jewelery, make-up and hair.
The new outfit and it has to be new or unseen by the people attending the do, as turning up in the same outfit, as the men can do is not the done thing. So why does the new outfit never quite go with the shoes and accessories that you already have.
When all said and done, I could turn up in a black dinner suit like the men, but maybe a little part of me likes to be individual and likes the process of being artistic and putting together an outfit.
Here's to a sparkling evening of enjoyment.