An e-vite is usually a welcome sight in your inbox -- until you realize that you've got to figure out what to wear to another party. A house party may be casual or formal, but that just means more leeway -- and confusion -- concerning what's appropriate. Asking a few questions before your next event can save you some stress and ensure that you celebrate the occasion in style.

If you’re unsure about what to wear to a house party, check with the host to see if there’s a dress code. In most cases, casual clothing is the order of the day, but your host may be planning an event where dressy-casual or cocktail attire is required. Consult your invite to see if it's a theme party so you can dress with a certain look in mind. For example, you may want to bust out your Hawaiian shirt for a luau-themed bash.

If you’re going to a casual house party, dark-wash jean work well. Pair them with a T-shirt or tank top and layer a cardigan or boyfriend blazer over it. Ballet flats or flat boots are an ideal footwear option -- you may be standing for a while as you mingle. For a dressy-casual event, opt for dress trousers, a fitted button-down blouse and a pair of heeled booties or pumps. When you're headed to a cocktail party, go with your little black dress or another knee-length sheath in an elegant material.

Jeans and a tee or polo shirt work well for a relaxed, low-key look. When the weather’s cool, layer a V-neck sweater over your T-shirt. For a dressy-casual party, wear a pair of khakis, a button-down and leather boots. A cocktail party usually requires a tie and dress shoes or boots. You can wear them with a dark suit if the party is formal; throw on a sports coat with a button-up shirt and tailored trousers for a more casual cocktail soiree.