What does ‘colorful formal’ mean?

What is “colorful formal”? I keep seeing it on invitations to events this summer. Where did it come from and what does it mean I should use? —Alice, Waban, Mass.

“Colorful formal” is another new dress code term that, like “creative black tie” or “stunning” or “mountain chic,” actually makes the recipient of such an invitation want to tear it into little pieces and stomp all over it. .

While such supposedly fun reimaginings are meant, in theory, to free the imagination to frolic happily in the fields of your closet, they just cause more headaches, and the results are often somewhere between a party and a costume party.

As an example, I’ll give you any Met Gala in recent memory. Instructions for dressing “in honor of Karl” in this year’s party produced Jared Leto in a furry catsuit. Last year, “Gilded Glamour” gave us kim kardashian slipping herself into the actual Marilyn Monroe “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” dress.

What’s wrong, one wonders, with the plain old “black bowtie” or the “cocktail dress”? Those terms are generic enough to encompass a wide range of outfits (one person’s cocktail is another’s lingerie), and the barriers are relatively clear cut.

My guess is that they seem dated, perhaps associated with a more backward age politically and socially. The pivot of adjective-filled party dress codes is an attempt to show some contemporary cultural credibility. And while you can always buck the prevailing trend, it’s more respectful of your hosts to make an effort to follow their rules.

Which brings us to “colorful formal,” which pretty much means what it says on the tin. Forget black, forget white (and grey, beige, taupe). Basically, it’s not about staying basic, or neutral, which I guess makes sense in today’s political environment.

Still, it’s easier for women than men, since most men have a formal attire that is a black tuxedo or dark suit, while women have long struggled with the subject of psychology. of color and what, say, wearing fuchsia means to those around you instead of bright red, which may still bring to mind Nancy Reagan’s power dress. They know it can be a shock to the psyche (your own and those who may be used to seeing you in a different light or shade) to suddenly feel like you’re channeling Nancy Pelosi instead of Audrey Hepburn.

(As for the formal part, that’s the easy part. It can be handled in fabrics and accessories: chiffon, silk, taffeta, a count or 10, and heels.)

In any case, that gender disparity doesn’t bother me too much. Putting on a great teal suit is not a bad experience for any man.

For inspiration, I suggest checking out Ryan Gosling, who has been modeling suits in a rainbow of hues, including mint green, sunshine yellow, burgundy, lavender, and pink (to name a few), often balanced with the coolness of a simple black t-shirt. . -shirt or white button-down.

And remember, obeying a dress code doesn’t have to mean making a lifetime commitment. You can always rent the person (sorry, party aspect) instead of buying.

Your style questions answered

Each week on Open Thread, Vanessa will answer a reader’s fashion-related question, which you can send her anytime via email either Twitter. Questions are edited and condensed.