To overdress means to wear clothing that is too formal or fancy for the situation. If you show up to a backyard barbecue wearing a tuxedo and bow tie while everyone else is in jeans and T-shirts, you've overdressed. If you wear your best velvet dress and patent leather shoes to a casual pizza party, you might feel awkward when you realize everyone else came in sneakers.

Overdressing happens when you misjudge what's appropriate. Maybe you thought a party would be fancy, or you wanted to make a special impression, but you ended up being the only one in formal clothes. The opposite problem is underdressing, like wearing shorts and flip-flops to a wedding.

While overdressing can feel embarrassing, it usually shows you made an effort and cared about the occasion. Still, being dressed right for the situation helps you feel comfortable and confident. When you're not sure what to wear, it's perfectly fine to ask the host or check with a friend who knows what to expect.