What should I wear to a Scottish Rite officers installation? This is a more conservative event so is the dress code different than any other graduation ceremony?
What should I wear to a Scottish Rite officers installation? This is a more conservative event so is the dress code different than any other graduation ceremony? Kelly M. is Dressed Up In Fullerton, CA
The dress codes for most graduation ceremonies and galas are semi-formal for day and black tie for night, skewing more conservatively for either time of day. To help further answer your question, we are going to draw inspiration, from Kate Middleton, The Duchess of Cambridge. She steps out of her royal home fully put together in outfits that are conservative but still very chic, and always appropriate for the day's agenda of luncheons, and galas. Kate manages to show her personal style and highlights her best features while adhering to the strict dress code of the British Monarchy. Let's dissect some of her looks from head to toe and use her style tips and tricks to create an outfit that is perfect for your event.
SEMI-FORMAL ATTIRE: A dress or suit with a fancy blouse in silk, cashmere, or satin, styled with heels, strappy sandals, or embellished flats. Sparkling gemstones, pearls, and fashion jewelry are all appropriate accessories. Keep the focus on your face with a fascinator. A floral or unique design will rival the hats of the masonry.
NECKLINE- Choose a dress with a peter pan or flat collar this design detail is a perfect way to frame your face.
SHOULDERS & ARMS- A blouse or dress with three quarter and long sleeves creates a nice long clean line and keep your hands manicured and hold onto a great clutch because everyone's gaze will follow the length of the sleeve naturally ending at your hands. A shoulder with a gathered set in sleeve will give you a sharp shoulder and the perfect beginning to an hourglass figure.
WAIST & HIPS - You can have a figure flattering look by emphasizing a cinched waist with a peplum, belts or darts. A belted waist and hip-skimming fabrics will show off a beautiful hourglass figure without being overly exposed.
LEGS & KNEES- Knee length skirts show a tasteful amount of leg and paired with heels elongates any frame. Use support hosiery instead of shapers for a more comfortable feel they still help dresses to lay better and give the appearance of smooth legs.
BLACK TIE ATTIRE: For women, it means you have the option of wearing a full-length gown or opting for a cocktail dress, so long as the hemline isn’t too short or the style isn’t too revealing. Bring out the diamonds for neck, ears, and hands. If wearing a neutral color dress then try colored gemstones. Heels are your only option, but let your comfort level decide the height and width of the heel. Envelope clutch is the bag of choice for black tie.
NECKLINE & SHOULDERS- The necklines that Kate chooses all keep attention on her face. High neck, v-neck, or strapless choose a style that that is not overly embellished or busy. Let the fabric choice make the feminine statement instead of cleavage, try lace or pleated chiffon. If going with a strapless dress wear a statement necklace that sits higher on your chest will bring shine to your look.
WAIST & LEG- The best reason to use a belt is to define a waistline and a simple velvet or jeweled belt will turn any column dress into an elegant form-fitting gown. Create movement on the dance floor with a chiffon dress, and add chicness with a high side slit, to expose leg and make walking easier.
One more fashion note... For this specific occasion, it is possible all of the men will be in uniform and Scottish Rite regalia so choose a dress or suit that will fit in standing alongside all of the other guests.