dress code

noun

: formally or socially imposed standards of dress

Examples of dress code in a Sentence

The school imposed a new dress code that forbids students from wearing jeans.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Knot wedding experts say that a clear dress code helps guests feel comfortable and confident while avoiding attire mishaps that could distract from the couple's big day. Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025 The ongoing initiative involves a series of upgrades to its operations and appearance, such as a new dress code for baristas that highlights the coffee chain's signature green apron. Anne Marie D. Lee, CBS News, 11 June 2025 On par with the show’s black tie dress code, her beauty look referenced her delicate lace gown. India Espy-Jones, Essence, 10 June 2025 Just ask the countless of women who use TikTok to poll if their look is appropriate for such-and-such wedding dress code. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for dress code

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dress code was in 1961

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dress code.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dress%20code. Accessed 21 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!