iltapuku

Iltapuku is the Finnish term for evening dress, a form of formal attire worn by women for events held after approximately six in the evening. The word combines ilta (evening) and puku (dress or suit) and is used in Finland to designate the standard level of female evening attire at formal occasions.

A typical iltapuku is a long gown or a refined cocktail dress suitable for evening affairs. Fabrics include silk, satin, velvet, and lace; colors range from black and deep jewel tones to metallic shades. Styles span from minimalist column gowns to embellished silhouettes, often accessorized with fine jewelry, a clutch, evening shoes, and sometimes a wrap or shawl.

Iltapuku is worn to formal dinners, galas, concerts, receptions, and many evening weddings. The corresponding male dress code is usually a frakk or smokki (tuxedo or dark suit) depending on formality, and invitations may specify iltapuku or juhlapuku; some events allow cocktail dresses as an alternative at the less formal end of the spectrum.

In Finnish etiquette culture, iltapuku denotes dress for evening occasions and is distinct from daytime or business attire. While the concept is broadly Western, local expectations can vary by venue and event type; in Nordic contexts, preferences for fabric, tailoring, and modesty influence choices.