What to Wear to a Banquet: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Outfit

April 5, 2023

Banquets are exciting, special events that require a specific dress code. Whether it is a formal, semi-formal, or casual banquet, choosing the right banquet attire is essential to make the right impression. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to determine what to wear to make a statement– especially if you’re accepting some kind of award.

Whether you're attending a formal, casual, sports, or band banquet, choosing the right banquet attire should be given adequate thought and consideration. You want to look stylish and put together, but you also don't want to stand out for the wrong reasons.

In this blog post, we will discuss tips for choosing the right banquet attire for a banquet, dress codes for different types of banquets, and how to choose the right banquet attire for black-tie, white-tie, and semi-formal banquets.

What’s a Banquet?

A banquet is an elaborate and formal event that is typically held to celebrate a special occasion or to honor a group of people. It is a time-honored tradition that has been around for centuries. Banquets are often associated with royalty, as they were once reserved for the upper class, but they have since become more accessible to people from all walks of life.

Banquets are typically held in grand ballrooms, hotel banquet halls, or other large venues that can accommodate a large number of guests. The event is often organized by a committee or a team of professionals who work together to create an unforgettable experience for attendees.

An important feature of a banquet is the dress code. Banquets are typically formal events, and guests are expected to dress accordingly. The dress code can range from semi-formal to black-tie, depending on the occasion.

Overall, a banquet is a special event that brings people together to celebrate and honor a particular occasion or group of people. It is an opportunity to enjoy good food, socialize with others, and create lasting memories. Whether it's a wedding, a charity gala, or a corporate event, a banquet is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

What to Wear to a Formal Banquet

If you're attending a formal banquet, the dress code will likely be black tie or formal. This means you should opt for a long gown or tuxedo. Here are some other tips to keep in mind:

Choose a dress or suit in a classic, neutral color like black, navy, or gray. Avoid bright colors or bold patterns, as they can be distracting.
Opt for elegant accessories, like a statement necklace or diamond earrings. Avoid anything too flashy or costume-like.
Make sure your shoes are comfortable and appropriate for the occasion. If you choose heels, make sure they are no higher than three inches, and men should wear dress shoes that are polished and in good condition.

What to Wear to a Casual Banquet

If you're attending a casual banquet, the dress code will likely be more relaxed. However, this doesn't mean you should show up in your sweats. Here are some tips for what to wear to a casual banquet:

Opt for a dress or skirt and blouse, or slacks and a collared shirt. Avoid anything too casual, like jeans or shorts.
Choose colors and patterns that are fun and playful but not too loud or distracting.
Wear comfortable shoes that are appropriate for the occasion, like loafers, low heels, flats, or dress shoes.

What to Wear to a Sports Banquet

If you're attending a sports banquet, the dress code will likely be casual or sporty. Here are some tips for what to wear to a sports banquet:

Dress to impress in order to show support for the team or athlete being honored. This could mean wearing the team's colors or dressing to the nines in your favorite gown.
Opt for comfortable options that you can move around in, like a soft, high-quality dress or two-piece set.
To support the sports team of your choosing, consider wearing colors that represent their team.
Wear comfortable shoes, like low heels or sandals, that you can wear for an extended period of time.

What to Wear to a Band Banquet

If you're attending a band banquet, the dress code will likely be semi-formal or dressy casual, very similar to a casual banquet. Here are some tips for what to wear to a band banquet:

Many band banquets are formal or semi-formal events, which means that you should choose attire that is elegant and polished. This might mean a cocktail dress, a dressy blouse and skirt, or a gorgeous two-piece set.
It is important to avoid anything too casual, such as jeans, t-shirts, or athletic wear.
Consider the theme of the banquet. If the band has a particular color or style associated with them, consider incorporating that into your outfit. You may also want to coordinate with other attendees, such as fellow band parents or supporters, to create a cohesive look.

Banquet Attire Tips

No matter what type of banquet you're attending, there are some general tips that apply to all occasions. Here are some banquet attire tips to keep in mind:

Make sure your outfit is clean and pressed. A wrinkled or stained outfit can ruin your entire look.
Dress appropriately for the season. If the banquet is in the summer, opt for lightweight fabrics with delicate details. If it's in the winter, choose heavier fabrics and dreamy coats to keep you warm.

Tips for Choosing the Right Attire for a Banquet

The first thing to consider when choosing what to wear to a banquet is the venue and location. A banquet held in a ballroom requires more formal banquet attire than one held in a backyard. The location and venue of the banquet will set the tone for the dress code.

If you are unsure of the dress code, it is best to ask the event organizer or host. They can give you guidance on what banquet attire is appropriate for the event.

Nana Jacqueline offers mindless luxury for the modern lady by providing high fashion at an affordable price. Our designs are inspired by moments in history and brought back to life in a refreshing and timeless fashion. We pride ourselves on being trendsetters in the industry and helping our NJ girls feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. We encourage you to look around and find a banquet dress that speaks to you and the look you want to serve.

Explore our social media accounts for inspiration on how our pieces were styled by people like you. You can also use the features on our website, like the size guide and reviews, to determine the size that would work best for you. We hope you fall in love with the perfect banquet attire.

Taking into Account the Time of Year and the Weather

The time of year and weather are also important factors to consider when choosing what to wear to a banquet. In colder months, it is essential to wear warmer clothes, such as a coat or jacket. In warmer months, lighter fabrics are more comfortable to wear.

It is also important to consider the venue's temperature. Some banquet halls can be chilly, so bringing a shawl or jacket is a good idea. See the way some of our formal dresses are styled with coats to accompany them. You can gain inspiration from images you see online to help bring your look together.

Choosing Comfortable and Appropriate Footwear

When choosing footwear for a banquet, it is essential to choose comfortable and appropriate shoes. High heels may look elegant, but they can be uncomfortable to wear for an extended period. If you plan to dance, consider wearing comfortable shoes or bring a spare pair to change into later. Avoid wearing sneakers or sandals, as they are too casual for a banquet.

Attending a banquet can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be a bit intimidating when you're unsure what to wear. The dress code for banquets varies depending on the event's formality, so it's essential to determine the dress code before choosing your outfit.

Banquets and Dress Codes

Banquets typically have one of three dress codes: black tie, white tie, or semi-formal. Understanding these dress codes is crucial to ensure that you are appropriately dressed for the event.

Black Tie: Black tie banquet attire is the most formal of all dress codes. For men, a black tuxedo jacket, black dress pants, and a black bow tie are the standard banquet attire. Women typically wear a long evening gown or a fancy cocktail dress. High heels or dressy flats are appropriate footwear. Men may also choose to wear a cummerbund or vest, and women may wear gloves and elegant jewelry.

Here are a few of our favorite products for a Back-tie look:

White Tie: White tie banquet attire is even more formal than black tie, and it's rare to encounter this dress code outside of royal events or very high-end events. Men typically wear a black tailcoat, black dress pants, and a white wing-collared shirt with a white bow tie. Women usually wear full-length formal gowns, gloves, and elegant jewelry.

If you’re looking for White Tie options, here are a few elegant pieces to add to your cart:

Semi-Formal: Semi-formal banquet attire is less formal than black or white tie, but still dressy. Men can wear a dark suit and tie, or a dress shirt with dress pants and dress shoes. Women typically wear a cocktail dress or a dressy skirt and top.

If the banquet you’re attending is Semi-Formal, we have a few favorites for you:

How to Determine the Dress Code for a Specific Banquet

It's essential to determine the dress code for the specific banquet you will be attending, as it can vary depending on the event's formality. Here are some tips to help you determine the appropriate banquet attire:

Check the Invitation: The invitation should provide information about the dress code. If it doesn't, you can always contact the event organizer to ask.
Research the Event: If you're not sure what the dress code means, research the event's formality. Look for pictures from previous years to get an idea of what attendees typically wear.
Consider the Venue: The venue can also provide clues about the dress code. If the banquet is being held at a formal ballroom or a high-end restaurant, it's more likely to have a black or white tie dress code.
Think about the Time of Day: The time of day can also influence the dress code. Evening banquets tend to be more formal than daytime events.
Consider the Event Type: The type of event can also provide clues about the dress code. If it's a charity gala, it's more likely to have a formal dress code, while a company holiday party may have a semi-formal dress code.

All in all, understanding the dress code and event type for a banquet is crucial to ensure that you're appropriately dressed for the event. Black tie, white tie, and semi-formal are the most common dress codes for banquets, and each has specific requirements. To determine the appropriate banquet attire, check the invitation, research the event, consider the venue, think about the time of day, and consider the event type. By following these tips, you can be sure that you'll look and feel your best at your upcoming event.

Back to blog