Dress code, schmess code. As a fashion critic, I usually eschew such diktats for something I know – ok, think – I look and feel good in. Besides, fashion has been so flexible this decade that, with a few exceptions and the right attitude, pretty much anything goes.

Sure, I enjoy costume parties as much as the next show-off, but theme dressing is generally fraught. Especially when you’re talking events that bring some of the nation’s most sartorially splendid women and men out to play.  

After all, my job routinely brings invitations with such codes as Glitz and Glamour (gag), White Chic (great, we’re all going to glow in the dark) and Dress with a Touch of Winter Wonder (wonder if my cashmere robe and sleep mask are out of the question?)

There are certain times however when dress codes can be genuinely helpful. Like when you’re going to the races, an actual black tie event (that’s another story) or a wedding.

But it was the last occasion that reminded me even established dress codes may not be terribly useful. Flying from Sydney to Queensland for a wedding later this month means planning an outfit well in advance. But what exactly does “formal” mean at 8.45am on a Sunday? At a Sunshine Coast resort? In winter? Apart from a headache, of course.

Given most of my current wardrobe is black it meant a trip to Marnie Skillings for a pretty grey, bronze (and, yes, black) printed silk dress. Naturally, there will be heels, tights and some kind of little cardigan or cropped jacket.

It’s exactly the same look I’d wear for an important work meeting, a date with my boyfriend or cocktails with the girls. So how to bump it up to formal status? Well, I might just have to bring one of my little black felt vintage hats out of hibernation. Because when in doubt, accessories have clout.

(Image Credits clockwise from top.Topshop Lurex shrug £40; Kris necklace $285 by by White Ginger Jewels;Alice McCall Dress $320 from ozdesigner.com;Emilio Pucci Clutch £302.13 and Fendi Patent Pumps £259.57 both from net-a-porter.com)