Through tradition and usage,
diplomats have come to wear certain kinds of clothes for certain
occasions. Your "uniform" will depend on the function, be it casual
or formal. This section gives a description of each kind of dress
and the occasions for which they are appropriate. Keep in mind that
local customs impose many modifications, so be sure to check at
post. Sometimes, wearing the country's ethnic or national dress in
lieu of traditional dress is appropriate.
In various parts of the world, a specific nomenclature for dress
has arisen. Contrary to the common meaning within US culture, in the
diplomatic community, "informal dress" equates to business dress
(see below). In some parts of the world, other terms for informal
dress for men include "lounge suit", "national dress", "tenue de
ville", "planters", "shirt and tie", "island casual", and "bush
shirt". "Planters" refers to a long sleeved white shirt with a tie
and dark trousers. "Bush shirt" is a long or short sleeved shirt
with a finished bottom edge worn outside rather than tucked into the
slacks, or a long or short sleeved embroidered man's shirt. "Island
casual" means a Hawaiian shirt and casual (usually khaki) slacks.
Similarly, various terms apply to formal dress for men. "Tuxedo"
and "smoking jacket" mean black tie, whereas a "Red Sea Rig" or
"Gulf Rig" means a tuxedo minus the jacket. "Dinner jacket" may
refer to either a dark-colored or white jacket. If you are unsure of
the terminology used, it is always appropriate to clarify before the
event.
For many posts, the overwhelming choice for day-to-day business
is a suit and tie for men and a business suit or conservative dress
for women. Men and women of all ranks of staff and spouses are
expected to bring this type of clothing. Many posts stress that
daily attire closely resembles that seen in Washington, DC. Although
suitable dress clothing for men can often be purchased at post, it
is often limited and expensive. The selection for women may be
larger, but the clothing is often limited and expensive as well.
Business attire for women is usually appropriate for official
evening functions.
Occasionally, business attire will not be appropriate. Below are
some dressing guidelines to help clarify the lines between formal
and casual wear, day and evening wear. As always, exceptions to the
rule exist, so be observant and inquire at post.
Formal "Black Tie" or "White Tie"
Formal wear may be worn at evening performances of the opera, the
theater, balls and for the most formal of dinners and evening
affairs. Black tie is generally not worn in the daytime. White tie
requires the additional formality of a cutaway ("tails") and white
tie for men and a floor-length ball gown for women. Above all, let
the information on the invitation be your guide. If the invitation
is unclear, ask when you respond to the invitation.
Male Attire
- Black, hip-length coat without tails and with silk or satin
lapels (a white dinner coat may be worn in hot weather and the
tropics)
- Low-cut black waistcoat or cummerbund may be worn with a
single-breasted coat
- Black trousers
- White starched or pleated shirt or a soft evening shirt with
studs instead of buttons
- Wing, turn-down, or attached collar and black bow tie
- Black shoes and socks
- Hats and gloves are optional but not worn or carried indoors
Female Attire
- Knee-length cocktail dress
- Floor-length ball gown
- Long skirt with top
- High-heeled shoes or dressy flats
- Above-elbow gloves are optional with a sleeveless evening
gown, and short gloves may be worn with a long-sleeved gown. If
worn, gloves need not be removed for a receiving line or dancing,
but are removed prior to eating or drinking.
Semi-Formal/Informal
Semi-formal/Informal wear may be worn for cocktail parties,
dinners, some dances, the theater, the opera and evening receptions.
Male Attire
- Dark suit
- Tie or bow tie
- Dark shoes and socks
Female Attire
- Short cocktail dress
- Gloves may be worn if the event is outside
- High-heeled shoes or dressy flats
Casual
Unlike the United States, most countries do not define casual as
jeans and sneakers or sportswear. Shorts and jeans, for men and
women, are considered inappropriate attire for social functions in
many parts of the world. Instead, you will find that business attire
is usually appropriate for an event specified as casual. Breakfast,
lunch, daytime meetings, afternoon tea, and some receptions are
generally considered casual, but the invitation should specify.
Male Attire
- Business suit (light or dark) or
- Sports jacket and pants
- Tie or bow tie
- Dress shoes or loafers
Female Attire
- Business suit or daytime dress
- Pumps or flats
- Hats and gloves are optional - head coverings may be
considered a requirement at some events. Hats may also provide
welcome and necessary protection from the sun; check with the
post.
Medals and Decorations
Foreign Service officers are prohibited from accepting
decorations from foreign governments. If you wish to wear war
service decorations or civilian medals at formal day or evening
events, check with the protocol officer. If appropriate, wear them
on your left lapel or over the left breast pocket, US military
medals above US civilian medals. |