Rustic Chic: Decode the Dress Code
Party dress codes can be hard for many people to decode even when it’s just “black tie” or “white tie.” But sometimes, that confusion is compounded with “creative” dress code wording. You know, when the invite says things like: Country Club Casual, Diamonds and Denim, Funky Formal or the one I was asked about recently… Rustic Chic.
Decoding dress codes for parties can be challenging, whether it’s black tie, white tie, or one of the more imaginative dress codes. Let’s use Rustic Chic as an example of how to approach it.
Also, I usually do a Mother’s Day gift ideas post around this time of year. Rather than writing another' Mother’s Day post, I updated an older one with new links and ideas! Click here to see the post.
According to Merriam Webster, rustic is defined as “of, relating to, or suitable for the country.” While chic is defined as “smart elegance and sophistication especially of dress or manner.”
So, elegant, sophisticated, and suitable for the country. Well that’s an oxymoron, isn’t it? How does this translate to fashion? That’s where my Rule of Juxtaposition comes in. I made a video talking more about this topic, you can watch it on Instagram or TikTok!
The basis of the Rule of Juxtaposition is formed around the idea that opposites attract, bringing out the best in each other. So while rustic and chic are pretty much opposites, they can actually be paired together in a way that brings out the best in each other.
Use This Rule to Tackle Most of Those Clever Dress Codes.
When the invite resorts to ingenious wording, typically the host doesn’t want the guests to dress too formally. They’re opening the door for some individuality and fun. And yet, they don’t want guests to dress as if they’re going to a football game. Since it’s not clear cut, as it is with Black Tie - it takes more creativity and therefore more effort to get dressed.
Think of it like putting salt in a chocolate chip cookie recipe - a little (just a dash) of the opposite dress code - be it the rustic part in this example - to take the chic down a notch.
Putting together a rustic chic outfit is much easier when you understand what items/styles are considered rustic, and what are considered chic. For the rustic pieces, think natural, earthy, and/or distressed. For the chic pieces, think luxurious, but effortless. Pearls are great for rustic chic because they are both natural and sophisticated.
Is your outfit feeling too chic? Here are some options for making your outfit feel more rustic:
Floral prints and lace work well for the rustic style
Stick to an earth tone or muted color palette
Denim or leather jacket as a topper
Adding something with fringe can feel rustic
If your outfit is feeling too rustic, here are some options for making it feel more chic:
Silk, sequins, diamonds, pearls, and sparkles are all super chic
Easy to add chic pieces to your outfit with earrings, bags, and shoes
If not on grass, adding a delicate heel can feel more chic (non-block heel like a stiletto)
A wrap always adds an element of elegance (plus a bit of warmth)
Lighter color palette (khaki, white, chambray)
Opt for no tie or fun tie
If there’s no tie, a pocket square is always a winner!
Incorporating suede into either shoe or belt can help the outfit feel more rustic