Silly question about dress codes

[mommydama]

commonreader especially...but anyone else is welcome to throw in their opinion too, of course.

Brad and I were just having an intense discussion about the definition of "smart casual". The dress code for the Capitol tour and reception tomorrow is labeled "smart casual". This is not a code we are very familiar with yet. So what does it mean? Can I wear a simple, summery, brown solid colored dress? I wore it to my cousin's wedding, but I dressed it up with jewelry and the wedding was VERY casual as wedding's go. The groomsmen didn't even wear ties, just sport coats and khakis. Anyway, the real discussion was about what that means for Brad. Does he need to wear a long sleeved, button down shirt? A tie? It is SOOOO hot right now, could he get away with a nice short sleeved, collared shirt? Just wondering....

Comments

Re: ah, I found it

[mommydama.livejournal.com]

That was really mean. I shouldn't have said that. He is quite civilized when he chooses to be.

So can I wear my brown dress or not? It is empire waist (but nicely fitted/clingy), jersey knit, v-neck wrap style top. I don't know what to call the sleeves...there are not really any sleeves. Sort of cap sleaves? Not exactly sleeveless, but not much in the sleeve department. I just like how I FEEL in that dress and I don't get to wear it very often.

Re: ah, I found it

[mercyorbemoaned.livejournal.com]

Dude, if it's "smart casual" there will be women in khaki shorts, that dress will be more than fine.

Re: ah, I found it

[mommydama.livejournal.com]

Oh, I know. But I don't want to be one of the women in khaki shorts. I'm trying to be CIVILIZED! Heh.

(As I said below, I have no fashion sense. I wear what I like and what I feel good in, and the fine distinctions in dress codes have always eluded me)