Most Formal: White Tie
Appropriate Occasions: State visits, state banquets, traditional events like Harvard or Cambridge graduation balls, Vienna Opera Ball, Nobel Prize ceremonies, and the Oscars red carpet. Receiving an invitation marked "white tie" signifies acceptance into the upper echelons of Western society.

Men's Attire: Required to wear a white bow tie, white dress shirt, white waistcoat, tailcoat, and patent leather shoes—all details are non-negotiable. White gloves can be worn while dancing with ladies.
Women's Attire: Opt for a long and dignified ball gown, avoiding bare shoulders as per the occasion's requirements.
Note: In the United States and Australia, occasions requiring white tie are very rare. Black tie is more common even at state banquets or award ceremonies. However, in the UK, white tie is still strictly adhered to.

Semi-Formal: Black Tie
Appropriate Occasions: Parties, dances, weddings, charity galas, theaters, fine dining, etc.
Men's Attire: Black bow tie, satin lapel tuxedo, shirt studs, and a matching belt.
Women's Attire: An evening gown is the safest choice. Slits in the skirt are acceptable but should not be overly revealing. Knee-length cocktail dresses are also acceptable. Chinese women can opt for a qipao, ensuring it's not overly revealing.
Note: Variations of dress codes related to black tie have emerged in recent years:

• Black Tie Optional: Men are encouraged to wear a tuxedo.

• Black Tie Preferred: Hosts prefer black tie attire, but less formal attire won't result in exclusion.

• Creative Black Tie: Allows guests to interpret formal wear based on personal preference or trends. Men can choose black shirts or skip the tie, while women can mix and match separates. Different workplaces in the West also have varied dress codes, leaning too casual or formal might be deemed inappropriate.

Business Wear
Appropriate Occasions: Diplomatic meetings, business conferences, or other formal business settings.
Men's Attire: Suit and tie.
Women's Attire: Tailored suits, predominantly in dark colors.

More Casual: Business Casual
Appropriate Occasions: White-collar office daily wear when not in meetings or meeting clients.
Acceptable: Khakis, casual pants, skirts, polo shirts, neutral colors like black, grey, navy, white, and beige.
Not Acceptable: Athletic shoes, sportswear, overly short or tight skirts, and t-shirts.

Even More Casual: Smart Casual
Appropriate Occasions: Relaxed office environments and everyday wear.
Men's Attire: Blazers or cardigans with casual pants or even jeans, avoiding full suits.
Women's Attire: Dresses are the safest choice.
Note: The difference between smart casual and business casual is subtle; business casual is slightly more formal. For example, a single blazer can be considered typical business casual, while smart casual might include long-sleeve shirts layered with cardigans. Business casual often pairs with rectangular briefcases, while smart casual allows for more stylish bags and accessories.
Different companies have different dress codes. To avoid mistakes, sneak a peek inside the company before your first day at work. Be careful not to attract security attention!