What to Wear: Formal Dress Codes For Men

Have you ever received an invite to an event, looked at the dress code, and wondered just what ‘White Tie’, ‘Cocktail’, or ‘Smart Casual’ actually mean? The answers are generally similar for both sexes, but our guide to formal wear for men will help every gentleman look the part.

Dress Codes

Simply put, a dress code is what type of clothes to wear. Although they can vary from event to event, and country to country, the first thing to do is understand how many different types of attire there are.

Black Tie

Perhaps the most common dress code. Often referred to by the catch-all term of ‘formal’, Black Tie usually consists of a black jacket, pants, and tie (or bow tie) with a white shirt. There is often some leeway as to the actual style of suit and tie, as long as it’s plain (no distinct pattern) and elegant (so no discount specials from your local tailor!).

White Tie

Considered by many as the pinnacle of elegance, a White Tie event is reserved for the classiest of shindigs. As the name suggests, a white bow tie is essential, but that’s not all. Guests would also be expected to wear an evening jacket (occasionally referred to as ‘tails’), high-waisted pants, and a white waistcoat over a white evening shirt.

Cocktail

Despite being one of the more old-fashioned dress codes around (from when people would gather for evening drinks at someone’s home), Cocktail is less common these days.

Apparently, it’s an attire that bridges the gap between daywear and evening; this could take the form a nice suit. Any color is fine, although darker colors are generally more acceptable. Patterns are also a-ok, but subdued markings (thin pinstripe, subtle plaid) can stop you from looking like a second-hand car salesman.

Business Formal

Perhaps you’re invited to an important meeting with the big boss, and they specify this dress code. It’s just what you’d wear to the office, right? Not necessarily. Business Formal is, surprise surprise, a suit. However, whereas Cocktail dress code etiquette allows for a degree of freedom, Business Formal is straight-down-the-line conservative. Well-fitting suit (but not black or too dark), nice tie at the right length (i.e. not down to your waist), and pressed pants with formal shoes are always a good combination.

Smart Casual

Finally, an attire you can feel comfortable in! Smart Casual is fast becoming the default dress code in offices around the world, as companies allow workers to embrace a more relaxed style. At the more casual end, you might spot someone in a t-shirt and jeans, but accompanied by a tailored jacket. Alternatively, a worker might opt for a shirt and pants, but forego a tie or jacket.

Types of Event

The trickiest part of any dress code is how appropriate an outfit would be for the event in question. Here are a few common functions and their typical dress code.

Weddings

All of us have been or will be invited to a wedding at some point. Most people opt for Black Tie formal wear at wedding ceremonies, although the reception afterward may change the code to Smart Casual.

Sports Events

You probably think wearing your copy of the team’s colors is enough – and it is if you’re going to watch soccer, ice hockey, or any number of typical sports. However, should you find yourself at something like a horse race (such as the UK’s Royal Ascot) prepare to dress like a well-to-do Victorian gent (i.e. Black Tie, but very fancy/old-fashioned).

Parties

If you’re headed to your mate Dave’s for a few beers with friends, you can probably get away with wearing whatever you want, but what if it’s for a baptism, film premiere, or something a little different? Black Tie or Smart Casual tend to be the go-to dress codes for these events unless it’s something exceptional (such as a night at the opera with royalty), for which White Tie would be appropriate.

Conclusion

Clothing etiquette can vary depending on any number of factors, from how fancy the event is, to the weather. However, as long as you’re aware of the general attire required at an event (so that’s a ‘no’ to your comedy shirt for your uncle’s wedding!) you can’t go wrong.