Showing Up in Style For Every Occasion
- By Hendrik Pohl
- Published January 16, 2009
- Advice
- Unrated
Hendrik Pohl
For more information on different dress codes for men, how to match clothing, or what is new in mens fashion visit Pohl's mens fashion blog. Besides writing articles on mens fashion Pohl is the founder of Ties-Necktie.com an online retailer specializing in fine neckties, pocket squares, bow ties, and cufflink sets.
View all articles by Hendrik Pohl
So many men struggle with what dress code is appropriate for different events. Often men feel they are the only ones who “don’t get it”, but rest assured that many men aren’t fully comfortable with what to wear to look appropriate. There are many events that call for a particular dress code and this little guide will help you make sure you look your best and really understand appropriate fashion.
What is Formal Formal Attire
When you are invited to an event that is strictly formal you will be expected to wear a tuxedo. Formal events are often referred to as “black tie” events primarily because men are expected to wear a tux and a black bow tie. Any classic tux jacket and pants paired with a bow tie, cummerbund or vest and dress shoes will work. If you really want to “dress to the nines”, then accessorize your tuxedo with cufflinks, studs on your shirt, an expensive watch and a pocket square.
Don’t go overboard or you will look more gaudy than polished. Also make sure and wear nice black dress socks. Many men think they can cheat on the socks but just the slightest lift of the hem of your pant renders your socks visible. A pair of white socks or socks in any color other than black will clash horribly with the color of your trousers and will ruin your otherwise perfect look.
You may also be attending a formal event that is considered “warm weather black tie”. Usually this means that the event is going to be outside during the day, making a black tuxedo jacket very uncomfortable. There are still events where you will need to wear a bow tie, but the jacket you need to wear is probably white instead of black. You will also need to consider the material you wear because there is nothing sophisticated about a man who is sweating profusely because he wore a heavy fabric that doesn’t breathe!
Semi-Formal Attire
A semi-formal event is sometimes also called black tie optional.
This means a tuxedo is not mandatory but would be acceptable. If you are in doubt of how others will dress, go ahead and go for the tux. If you know of at least one other person who isn’t wearing a tux, chances are a quality suit will fit the bill.
Be sure to not go too casual or trendy at semi-formal events. Always wear a jacket and matching slacks with a tie and dress shoes in classic styles and dark colors. If you do wear a tux, semi formal events allow for you to play with the color of the bowtie and cummerbund, but make sure and stay with a color that isn’t too obnoxious like silver, dark blue, or a deep red.
Creating the Right Impression with Business Dress Code
Business attire can actually vary greatly from one event to the next. Some professions call for more formal attire than others, but traditionally business attire means a suit and tie event. Be sure to never go too wild with your color choices and patterns for business attire events. When in doubt, go with a black suit, tie, and shoes paired with a white shirt. Remember to wear a quality leather belt. Forgetting this accessory will leave you looking unfinished.
Sometimes business attire is actually business casual attire. There is always great debate over what exactly constitutes business casual, so always plan it on the safe side. A nice pair of pants in a neutral color such as black or khaki will always work. Sometimes a polo style shirt with a collar is acceptable, but if there is any doubt wear a button up. Do not wear a jacket or a tie. Make sure and pair your outfit with a nice pair of dress shoes and a good belt. Never wear jeans, t-shirts, or tennis shoes to business casual events.
If you are still not sure what you should wear to a particular event, don’t be afraid to call up the host and ask. Most people will be impressed that you even thought about wearing the right thing to their event. Another way to be sure you look completely appropriate is to ask other men attending what they plan to wear. Don’t be bashful! Chances are the other guys have the same questions you do.
What is Formal Formal Attire
When you are invited to an event that is strictly formal you will be expected to wear a tuxedo. Formal events are often referred to as “black tie” events primarily because men are expected to wear a tux and a black bow tie. Any classic tux jacket and pants paired with a bow tie, cummerbund or vest and dress shoes will work. If you really want to “dress to the nines”, then accessorize your tuxedo with cufflinks, studs on your shirt, an expensive watch and a pocket square.
Don’t go overboard or you will look more gaudy than polished. Also make sure and wear nice black dress socks. Many men think they can cheat on the socks but just the slightest lift of the hem of your pant renders your socks visible. A pair of white socks or socks in any color other than black will clash horribly with the color of your trousers and will ruin your otherwise perfect look.
You may also be attending a formal event that is considered “warm weather black tie”. Usually this means that the event is going to be outside during the day, making a black tuxedo jacket very uncomfortable. There are still events where you will need to wear a bow tie, but the jacket you need to wear is probably white instead of black. You will also need to consider the material you wear because there is nothing sophisticated about a man who is sweating profusely because he wore a heavy fabric that doesn’t breathe!
Semi-Formal Attire
A semi-formal event is sometimes also called black tie optional.
Be sure to not go too casual or trendy at semi-formal events. Always wear a jacket and matching slacks with a tie and dress shoes in classic styles and dark colors. If you do wear a tux, semi formal events allow for you to play with the color of the bowtie and cummerbund, but make sure and stay with a color that isn’t too obnoxious like silver, dark blue, or a deep red.
Creating the Right Impression with Business Dress Code
Business attire can actually vary greatly from one event to the next. Some professions call for more formal attire than others, but traditionally business attire means a suit and tie event. Be sure to never go too wild with your color choices and patterns for business attire events. When in doubt, go with a black suit, tie, and shoes paired with a white shirt. Remember to wear a quality leather belt. Forgetting this accessory will leave you looking unfinished.
Sometimes business attire is actually business casual attire. There is always great debate over what exactly constitutes business casual, so always plan it on the safe side. A nice pair of pants in a neutral color such as black or khaki will always work. Sometimes a polo style shirt with a collar is acceptable, but if there is any doubt wear a button up. Do not wear a jacket or a tie. Make sure and pair your outfit with a nice pair of dress shoes and a good belt. Never wear jeans, t-shirts, or tennis shoes to business casual events.
If you are still not sure what you should wear to a particular event, don’t be afraid to call up the host and ask. Most people will be impressed that you even thought about wearing the right thing to their event. Another way to be sure you look completely appropriate is to ask other men attending what they plan to wear. Don’t be bashful! Chances are the other guys have the same questions you do.