código de vestimenta
/ˌkodiɡo de bestiˈmenta/masculine
The English phrase "dress code" is translated into Spanish as código de vestimenta.
The phrase código de vestimenta is used to describe the rules regarding what is appropriate to wear at events, workplaces or specific institutions.
Meaning: formal specification of acceptable attire (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of código (code) and de vestimenta (of clothing/attire).
Which one should you use?
While código de vestimenta is a standard way to express the concept, you may also see normas de vestimenta used in formal settings. In many social contexts, the single word etiqueta is used to refer to a formal dress code.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you can use normas de vestuario instead of normas de vestimenta. In Mexico, política de vestimenta is an acceptable alternate expression for dress code.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun código is masculine, so it takes the masculine article el when referring to the dress code as el código de vestimenta.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌkodiɡo de bestiˈmenta/
Did you know?
- The word código comes from the Latin word 'caudex', which originally meant 'trunk of a tree' or 'block of wood'.
- In Spanish, the word etiqueta refers both to the dress code and to the general rules of social etiquette and polite behavior.
- The word etiqueta is used for the most formal dress codes and implies a strict requirement for black tie or white tie attire.
Examples in context
- El código de vestimenta es casual.The dress code is casual.This sentence is useful for describing a casual dress code using código de vestimenta.Tatoeba #12182543 by ecorralest101, translation #12183538 by Miktsoanit
- El código de vestimenta es informal de negocios.The dress code is business casual.Tatoeba #12182544 by ecorralest101, translation #7969506 by Hybrid
- La empresa tiene un código de vestimenta estricto para sus empleados.The company has a strict dress code for its employees.
- El evento requiere estrictas normas de vestimenta.The event requires strict dress codes.
- La política de vestimenta de la oficina permite atuendos casuales los viernes.The office dress code allows casual attire on Fridays.
- No entiendo el código de vestimenta de la fiesta.I don't understand the dress code for the party.
Example conversation
María and Daniel are discussing an upcoming office gala.
- María¿Sabes cuál es el código de vestimenta?Do you know what the dress code is?
- DanielCreo que es formal, María.I think it is formal, María.
- MaríaEntonces buscaré un vestido elegante.Then I will look for an elegant dress.
- DanielYo también necesito un traje nuevo.I also need a new suit.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “dress code” translations and entries código de vestimenta, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries código, de, vestimenta, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
