Big date, interview or business meeting? We have some pointers on looking the part!

1  Interview.
‘The key is knowing your office environment, as different jobs have different dress codes,’ says Rochelle Malherbe Howard, Club’s fashion director. ‘To be safe, choose something classic.    But you also want to make an impression, so add a small touch to your outfit that reflects your personality.’ For example, choose a stylish suit in a neutral colour, and then accessorise with bright shoes,   a quirky broach or a glamorous handbag. ‘Guys, never go in a T-shirt. For a toned-down look,wear a casual-style shirt with rolled-up sleeves.’

2  Meeting An Important Client.
If it’s a first meeting, rather err on the side of being too conservative;it isn’t the right moment to    take big risks with your appearance. The initial impression counts, so try to look your best. As with the interview, keep your personal flair for the small things. Once you know the clients, you can go the more casual route – but remember,  this doesn’t mean sloppy.

3  Dinner Party With Your Partner’s Boss.
Go for classic and trendy to create a good first impression. ‘For the ladies, a stylish black dress with kitten heels will work well,’ says Rochelle. ‘Nothing flashy or revealing; the attention should be on your partner. For guys, a smart black shirt with a black blazer and dark jeans is a safe bet. Choose black brogues for a twist.’

4  Dinner Party With Friends.
This depends on a range of factors, such as who the host is and whether or not it’s a special occasion. You really don’t want to arrive in jeans and a plain top when everyone else is wearing cocktail dresses and heels. The best solution is simply to ask. The person organising the event will let you know if it’s denim-friendly or if you need to start    shining your shoes.

5  First Date.
It’s important to be true to yourself, says Rochelle. ‘Wear something you’re comfortable in and that reflects your personality. You don’t want to start your relationship being someone you’re not.’ It may be tempting to look for the fanciest item you own,   but it’s no fun if you spend the entire date tottering around in nine-inch stilettos or tugging at your skirt.‘If you want to wear heels, but don’t know where you’re going, toss an emergency pair of soft pumps into your bag,’ says Rochelle.

6  A Wedding.
Even if the invitation doesn’t specify how formal the function is, use your common sense. This means avoiding jeans, flip-flops or that revealing mini-dress, and opting for a cocktail dress in any  colour other than white (you don’t want to upstage the bride). Black or sequins work better for evening weddings, while day events tend to be more casual. For guys, a good suit will take you far.

7  A Funeral.
Black is the obvious choice, although any dark colour is also fine. The point to remember here is to keep it respectful. Accessories should be plain – your favourite bright-pink  scarf is best kept for other occasions. Anything revealing is not appropriate either.

8  Braai.
This is the ultimate in casual wear. Generally, it means you can wear pretty much anything (within reason, of course). Ladies can try a dress and ballet pumps if it’s warm, and accessorise with a hat or sunglasses. Guys, don a pair of jeans, takkies and a shirt to be comfortable yet stylish.

9  Black Tie.
As this is a formal event, floor-length gowns or skirts are traditional for women, while tuxes are it  for guys. But the dress-code line is slightly blurred these days and what you wear depends on your body shape. If you’re shorter, you may want  to go for a knee-length cocktail dress to avoid drowning in the longer ones.

10 A Big Night Out.
This is your chance to doll up and go for glam – with added bling! ‘But even though you want to dress up, you also want to be comfortable,’ Rochelle says. ‘If you’re worried about overdressing, tone your outfit down with flat sandals.’