ladies formal maxi dresses Odette Light Blue Long Sleeve Formal Maxi Dress Body Ptorlio Womens Plus Size Long

Dial up the drama with this mini dress by adding some thigh-high boots and gold jewellery to lean into that high-fashion aesthetic

Try it with the Water Stone Chandelier Clip Earrings by Alexis Bittar

Combined with luxurious butter yellow satin, this gown feels sophisticated enough for black-tie weddings while remaining soft and approachable

The matching embroidered hem adds a delicate touch, making this dress a cherished keepsake to be passed down through generations

Style this bodycon dress with matching hue heels and a mini bag for an effortlessly chic look that will have all eyes on you

That said, knowing the traditional rules also helps you better understand the more unique or esoteric dress codes like fabulous cocktail, cowboy formal, or the garden of time (all very real themes I have seen in the wild)