One of the most important things for every young lady to know is how to dress appropriately and any given event. There is a protocol to what you wear that depends on the type of event you are attending, the location of the event, and what time of day the event is taking place. The guidelines presented here are taken from many different DeMolay Sweetheart handbooks around the U.S. as well as a few notes on general fashion terms.
Young ladies representing their Masonic Organization should always remember you are a role model and should accordingly set a standard. "It is always better to be "over dressed than under dressed". Sloppy, age inappropriate, too tight or small clothing along with garish makeup, nails or hairstyles is unacceptable. Body markings (e.g. piercings, irregular jewelry, tattoos) should be discreetly covered.
Formal / Black Tie (Installations, Formal Dances, and Public/Formal Ceremonies):
- A full length and properly fitting dress
- State/Chapter Sweetheart regalia - sash & crown
- Slits can be no higher than the knee and the back can be no lower than the natural bra line (CA)
I the state of California, all young ladies of any Masonic body that will be escorted and introduced during the course of a formal DeMolay event should have floor length gowns. Ladies remaining on the sidelines may wear tea length.
Black Tie Optional:
This is not much different from black tie and formal. Tuxedos and cocktail dresses are preferred, but a young man may opt for a dark suit and tie if he wants to be more casual.
Semi-Formal:
Ladies can opt for a wide variety of styles however skirt length should be at or below the knee. If the event is during the day, there is more leniency in fabric choices. Men can wear a dark suit and tie or a vest. A dinner jacket may be appropriate if the even is early in the evening or in the late afternoon. Shoes should have some kind of heel, but not be more dramatic than the dress.
Cocktail Attire:
Ladies can have a little more fun with their outfits, and dresses can go above the knee for cocktail attire. The "little black dress" is perfect for this event. Think about what you would wear for a fancy dinner. Men can wear a black suit and tie, or opt for a white shirt and jacket in black or other dark color. A white dinner jacket may be appropriate if the even is early in the evening or in the late afternoon.
Business Attire (Chapter meetings, dinners and Chapter visitations or other Masonic events when formal attire is not necessary):
- A properly fitting business suit, dress or skirt/pant/top combo
- State/Chapter Sweetheart regalia - sash & crown if wearing a dress/skirt (sash only if in pants)
This leaves many options for ladies, country club attire including shirts and dresses with short sleeves, sweaters with a skirt, dresses with patterns, etc. Stay on the conservative side and classy. Khakis and a collared shirt for a man, possibly with a blazer or summer jacket.
Casual Attire (for Athletic tournaments, fun activities):
- Properly fitting nice jeans or shorts are acceptable - the same rule applies to shorts as with skirts - the length should be equal to finger tips when arms are casually at your side and no holes; Full-length tops (no bare midriffs)
- If you have a DeMolay shirt, you are encouraged to wear it to promote the organization.
- You do not need to wear your sash or crown at these types of events.
If you decide to go to any public pool with your organization, you will need to wear a proper cover up to and from the pool. If your swimming suit ties, these need to be double knotted to prevent accidents. One piece of tankini style suits are most appropriate.
A General Comment on Appropriate Skirt Length:
Florida's Sweetheart Guidelines state that "the bottom of the dress or skirt and the top of the slit should not rise past the ladies fingertips at her hands at a casual placement at their side. This is a very lenient code but please realize that when you sit, you are to sit properly to remain properly covered at all times." In Illinois guidelines say that skirts should be no shorter than "street length" which is defined by fashion as at the knee. California and Indiana also suggest skirts never be shorter than knee length.
"Properly Fitting":
You'll notice many of these guidelines state that things should be "properly fitting". Even the most beautiful dress will not fit correctly if you're not wearing the appropriate undergarments. I understand that good underwear can be an investment, but if you want to look your very best in that dress, make sure you have some structure underneath.
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