Dress Code
Dress Code: This Is How A Man Should Dress
Men’s dress code remains one of the most challenging topics when attending, organizing, or hosting an event. Whether it’s a wedding, a graduation, or a White House gala, this dress code guide will point you in the right direction. This article will help you find the right outfit for any occasion!
Men often wonder if they should wear a tie, a bow tie, or no tie at all. Or if those khakis you bought last month are the best choice for your niece’s upcoming graduation.
Well, we’re happy to say that you don’t have to wonder anymore. We’ve compiled a list of all the possible dress code etiquette and compiled them into a simple and straightforward list. From now on, refer to this article when you don’t know what to wear or when to wear it. Bookmark it if necessary.
In this article, we’ll list all the dress code etiquette for men, from the most formal to the least formal. Under each dress code etiquette, we’ll explain what should be worn in the simplest way possible. Let’s dive into the men’s dress code guide!
The white tie is the most formal dress etiquette. It is mainly used by high society people (presidents, kings, royalty, etc.) who invite hundreds or even thousands of people to their events. Usually, white tie events are held in the evening, with a grand ceremony and strict or even quite strict etiquette.
The white tie dress code is sometimes mistaken as an event where men are required to wear white ties. However, this is not the case. The correct attire for men attending white tie events is a long-tailed black three-piece tuxedo (jacket, trousers and vest), a white dress shirt, patent leather shoes, a white pocket square, and finally a white bow tie. In the 20th century, men would also wear a bowler hat and white gloves to white tie events, but today this is no longer mandatory.
When attending a white tie event, it is important to forgo unnecessary accessories. Bracelets and sunglasses are optional. Even a watch peeking out of the sleeve is considered a clear fashion mistake at a white tie event.
Black tie is the second most formal dress code etiquette. Typical black tie dress codes include weddings, large dinners, galas, and other evening events. The vast majority of black tie events take place in the evening, usually beginning at 6 pm or later.
While black tie events are less formal than white tie events, they still require fairly strict etiquette. If you've seen the James Bond movies - most of the parties Mr. Bond attends are black tie events - you probably have an idea of what men wear to black tie events and what kind of behavior is expected.
Common men's attire for black tie events includes a black tuxedo, black bow tie, and patent leather shoes. While a black tuxedo is preferred, white and navy tuxedos are also fairly common attire. Accessories such as pocket squares, watches, lapel pins, and rings are acceptable in moderation.
It's important not to overdo the accessories. For example, a tuxedo with a black bow tie, white pocket square, watch, and wedding rings is an acceptable attire. Add a few rings, lapel pins, and a few bracelets, and you've made a fashion blunder.
✔ Black bow tie
✔ White pocket square (or lapel pin)
✔ White tuxedo shirt (or an elegant white dress shirt) with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes (match a navy tuxedo with dark brown shoes)
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Too many accessories can ruin your look
X A plain suit, even a fancy three-piece suit, can make you look less formal
X Wear a tie instead of a black bow tie
Black tie creative is the third most formal dress code. As the name suggests, it is very similar to the black tie dress code, except that it encourages guests to be more colorful and get more creative with their outfits.
A Black tie creative is the third most formal dress code. As the name indicates, it is very similar to the black tie dress code, with the exception that it invites guests to have more color and be more creative with their outfits. A black tie creative dress code is often seen in Hollywood at red-carpet events, celebrity-hosted parties, and movie premiers.
Because the black tie creative dress code invites people to be personal with their outfits, very strict behavior is not often required. Black tie creative events invite people to be social, friendly, and open-minded. Simply put, black tie creative dress code is the modern and flexible cousin of the more traditional black tie dress code.
The core outfit for men at a black tie creative event includes a tuxedo, patent leather shoes, and a bow tie. Vivid details such as a colorful pocket square, cummerbund, or vest are, not only tolerated but preferred.
Although a colorful tux is allowed, try not to go too overboard with colors. A nice set of colorful complementary accessories is usually the best way to create a personal style for a creative black tie event.
✔ Bow tie (usually black)
✔ Pocket square (usually white) or a lapel pin
✔ White tuxedo shirt (or an elegant, white dress shirt) with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes (with a dark blue tux, go with dark brown shoes)
✔ Few extra accessories to personalize your look (not mandatory)
X Don't go crazy with the colors (avoid bright tones & too many colors)
X A regular suit, even a fancy three-piece suit, will make you underdressed
X Necktie as a substitute for the bow tie
The dress code formal attire, also known as black tie optional, is probably the most common formal dress code you will bump into. Many weddings, formal birthdays, and evening galas have formal attire set as the dress code.
When attending an event with formal attire (or black tie optional) set as the dress code, men should wear a dark tuxedo with a dark bow tie, along with a white shirt and black patent leather shoes. A dark suit is an acceptable substitute if you don't have a tuxedo lying around. Also, a dark-toned tie instead of a bow tie is an appropriate replacement. To complete the look, place a neatly folded white pocket square to the jacket's outer chest pocket.
Accessories such as a wristwatch, wedding ring, personal necklace, or bracelet are accepted as long as the look stays organized and clean. Large visible accessories, however, are not a regular thing at a formal attire event.
Don't wear any bright or light-colored tuxes or suits at a formal attire event. Generally, black and dark blue are the only accepted colors of a tux or suit. Moreover, you don't want to be the only person walking around with a light grey suit when other men are wearing black tuxedos.
✔ Bow tie, preferably black (dark necktie is an acceptable substitute)
✔ Pocket square (usually white)
✔ White tuxedo shirt (or an elegant, white dress shirt) with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes
✔ Few extra accessories to personalize your look (not mandatory)
X Other colored tux or suit than black or dark blue
X Mistakenly think the "optional" means a tie is optional
X Don't go overboard with accessories
The semi-formal dress code, also known as business attire, is a fairly flexible dress code. It is globally adopted as the standard businessman look, ergo the name business attire. In addition to the business world, semi-formal attire is often worn at funerals, christenings, and other daytime occasions.
Men's standard outfit at a semi-formal (or business attire) dress code event is a suit and tie with either Oxford or Derby leather shoes. A white dress shirt is an obvious choice, but other colors such as striped blue are also acceptable options. Usually, the outfit is coupled with accessories like a pocket square, tie clip, wristwatch, or a pair of cufflinks.
Since the dress code is semi-formal, don't wear a tux. Being overdressed can look just as stupid as being underdressed. If you feel the need to look your best at a semi-formal dress code event, wear a three-piece suit. Classy suit accessories like a fancy tie, pocket square, tie clip, and cufflinks can help improve your look without much effort.
The lounge suit dress code is a versatile etiquette. The lounge suit dress code essentially requires formal attire, but at the same time leaves room for personal preference in terms of color choice and suit style.
Lounge suits specifically refer to suits made of fine wool. If you don’t have a fine wool suit, a regular suit will also work. Dress codes are usually used for events that take place in the evening, such as when attending an opera or ballet performance.
For men, generally speaking, the required attire is a suit and tie. Although a three-piece suit is possible, a two-piece suit is preferred. The color of your suit should be adjusted according to the time of the event; a light-colored suit is appropriate for an event earlier in the day, and the later the event, the darker the suit.
When it comes to accessories, your hands are free to choose. If you want to wear a red floral tie, wear it. Of course, wear a yellow pocket square, why not! Don’t get too obsessed with accessories, though. For those who are not too keen on accessories, that’s fine. Just remember to wear a tie with your suit!
✔ Tie
✔ Button-down dress shirt (preferably white)
✔ Dress shoes
✔ Pocket square, cufflinks, and tie clip (optional)
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Wear a tuxedo instead of a suit – don’t overdo it
X Don’t mix and match too many colors
X Sneakers are not suitable for blazer shoes
The cocktail dress code is another very common etiquette. It is a dress code that is fairly formal but still leaves room for a personal look. Unlike the blazer dress code, cocktail dress code does not require men to wear a tie. In other respects, the two etiquettes are very similar.
At a cocktail dress code event, men should wear a suit and matching dress shoes. While a tie (or bow tie) is preferred, it is not a prerequisite. Blazers and sports jackets are also acceptable, as are a pair of loafers or brogues in place of dress shoes. Even trendy sneakers are sometimes permitted at cocktail parties.
Classic suit accessories, such as pocket squares, tie clips, and cufflinks, are welcome additions. Also, bracelets, necklaces, rings, and other conventional accessories are acceptable at cocktail dress code events.
When it comes to socks, stick to classic black or colored dress socks. Ankle socks and white sports socks are too casual for a cocktail party.
✔ Tie or bow tie (optional but preferred)
✔ Button-down dress shirt (preferably white)
✔ Dress shoes (loafers and brogues are OK)
✔ Black (or colored) dress socks
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Wearing a tuxedo instead of a suit is too formal
X Sneakers and jeans are too casual
X Ankle socks and white socks are too casual
The business casual dress code, sometimes referred to as dressy casual, is a mix of formal and casual. More specifically, it is a professional business style with a relaxed vibe. This is the typical dress code for holiday or weekend workdays, Christmas parties, and summer graduations.
At events with a smart casual dress code, men should wear a button-down shirt (a polo shirt or formal sweater are suitable alternatives), a blazer or sports jacket, and pressed pants, such as slacks or khakis. As for shoes, anything from dress shoes to stylish sneakers will do.
A common mistake is wearing an outfit that is too casual. For example, pairing a polo shirt with light-colored jeans is a bit too casual. However, pairing a pair of dark blue jeans with a matching jacket, a dress shirt, and a tie is fine. Just don't forget to distinguish smart casual from business attire.
Accessories are a great way to freshen up your smart casual outfit. A clean watch or bracelet can instantly add personality and pizzazz to any style. If you plan on wearing a suit, add a colorful pocket square to add color to the look.
✔ Button-down dress shirt, polo shirt or formal sweater
✔ Dress pants, slacks, khakis or corduroys (dark jeans are OK)
✔ Dress shoes, loafers, brogues (or stylish sneakers for a very casual look)
✔ Dress socks (colored or black)
✔ Tie (optional)
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Open-toed shoes are very casual
X Very casual is too casual
X Ankle socks and white athletic socks are not appropriate
Beach formal is a dress code that provides flexibility in moderately formal etiquette. It is often seen at beach weddings, bachelor parties, and similar events held in the summer - preferably near the beach.
At beach formal events, men should wear a white or light-colored cotton or linen (silk if the weather is not too hot) dress shirt, straight-leg pants such as khakis or slacks, and a suit jacket or sports jacket. If there is a lot of direct sunlight, a Panama hat or straw hat is recommended. As for shoes, perforated leather shoes, loafers, boat shoes, and canvas shoes are your best choices.
At beach formal events, accessories such as ties, sunglasses, hats, or pocket squares/lapel pins are recommended, but not required. A typical mistake is to overdress in an attempt to look your best and end up sweating all over the event. Make sure you are well prepared for the weather and the possible sun and wind.
While the beach formal dress code allows for flexibility, there are certain things to avoid. These include sandals, short-sleeved shirts, and dark, dull three-piece suits. You also shouldn’t pair shorts with a blazer or sports jacket.
✔ Linen or cotton button-down dress shirt (white or light-colored)
✔ Straight-leg pants, such as slacks, linen pants, or khakis
✔ Perforated leather shoes, loafers, boat shoes, or canvas shoes
✔ Sunglasses (optional but recommended)
✔ Tie or bow tie (optional)
✔ Straw hat - Panama, fedora, or similar hat (optional)
✔ Pocket square or lapel pin (optional)
X No short-sleeved shirts
X Sandals are too casual
X Dark, monotonous three-piece suits are inappropriate
Smart casual dress code, sometimes referred to as preppy, is very common around the world. It has a wide range of flexibility and style variations. Business casual dress codes are often seen at formal casual events, informal work settings, and even some vacations.
When attending a business casual dress code event, men should wear a button-down dress shirt, blazer, sports jacket, and fitted pants such as khakis, corduroys, or jeans. Classic dress shoes, loafers, boat shoes, or brogues are also recommended. As for socks, black or colored dress socks are appropriate.
Depending on whether the business casual event is more formal, pair it with slacks, a dress shirt, a jacket, etc., and add a tie or pocket square (not both). However, if it is more casual, khakis or jeans, a button-down shirt, and a formal sweater are sufficient.
Personal accessories such as watches, sunglasses, rings, bracelets, and necklaces are acceptable, if not preferred. Colored clothing is also acceptable. Wearing something that adds personality is always recommended at a business casual dress code event.
✔ Dress pants, slacks, khakis, corduroys, or jeans
✔ Dress shoes, loafers, brogues, boat shoes, or stylish sneakers
✔ Black or colored dress socks or ankle socks
✔ Blazer, blazer, or sports jacket (optional)
✔ Tie or pocket square (optional)
✔ A few extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Open-toed shoes are still too casual
X Sweatpants, even in black, are too casual
X White sports socks are inappropriate
Men often wonder if they should wear a tie, a bow tie, or no tie at all. Or if those khakis you bought last month are the best choice for your niece’s upcoming graduation.
Well, we’re happy to say that you don’t have to wonder anymore. We’ve compiled a list of all the possible dress code etiquette and compiled them into a simple and straightforward list. From now on, refer to this article when you don’t know what to wear or when to wear it. Bookmark it if necessary.
In this article, we’ll list all the dress code etiquette for men, from the most formal to the least formal. Under each dress code etiquette, we’ll explain what should be worn in the simplest way possible. Let’s dive into the men’s dress code guide!
1. White Tie
The white tie is the most formal dress etiquette. It is mainly used by high society people (presidents, kings, royalty, etc.) who invite hundreds or even thousands of people to their events. Usually, white tie events are held in the evening, with a grand ceremony and strict or even quite strict etiquette.
The white tie dress code is sometimes mistaken as an event where men are required to wear white ties. However, this is not the case. The correct attire for men attending white tie events is a long-tailed black three-piece tuxedo (jacket, trousers and vest), a white dress shirt, patent leather shoes, a white pocket square, and finally a white bow tie. In the 20th century, men would also wear a bowler hat and white gloves to white tie events, but today this is no longer mandatory.
When attending a white tie event, it is important to forgo unnecessary accessories. Bracelets and sunglasses are optional. Even a watch peeking out of the sleeve is considered a clear fashion mistake at a white tie event.
White Tie Dress Code:
✔ Black long-tail three-piece tuxedo (jacket, pants, and black or white vest)
✔ White bow tie
✔ White pocket square (can be worn with or in place of lapel pin)
✔ White tuxedo shirt with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes (Oxford, Opera, or Derby)
✔ Black bowler hat (optional)
✔ White gloves (optional)
X Accessories other than bow tie and pocket square (and lapel pin)
X Tuxedo colors other than black
X Tie in place of white bow tie
2. Black Tie
Black tie is the second most formal dress code etiquette. Typical black tie dress codes include weddings, large dinners, galas, and other evening events. The vast majority of black tie events take place in the evening, usually beginning at 6 pm or later.
While black tie events are less formal than white tie events, they still require fairly strict etiquette. If you've seen the James Bond movies - most of the parties Mr. Bond attends are black tie events - you probably have an idea of what men wear to black tie events and what kind of behavior is expected.
Common men's attire for black tie events includes a black tuxedo, black bow tie, and patent leather shoes. While a black tuxedo is preferred, white and navy tuxedos are also fairly common attire. Accessories such as pocket squares, watches, lapel pins, and rings are acceptable in moderation.
It's important not to overdo the accessories. For example, a tuxedo with a black bow tie, white pocket square, watch, and wedding rings is an acceptable attire. Add a few rings, lapel pins, and a few bracelets, and you've made a fashion blunder.
Black Tie Dress Code:
✔ Black tuxedo (white and navy are also OK)✔ Black bow tie
✔ White pocket square (or lapel pin)
✔ White tuxedo shirt (or an elegant white dress shirt) with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes (match a navy tuxedo with dark brown shoes)
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Too many accessories can ruin your look
X A plain suit, even a fancy three-piece suit, can make you look less formal
X Wear a tie instead of a black bow tie
3. Black Tie Creative
Black tie creative is the third most formal dress code. As the name suggests, it is very similar to the black tie dress code, except that it encourages guests to be more colorful and get more creative with their outfits.
A Black tie creative is the third most formal dress code. As the name indicates, it is very similar to the black tie dress code, with the exception that it invites guests to have more color and be more creative with their outfits. A black tie creative dress code is often seen in Hollywood at red-carpet events, celebrity-hosted parties, and movie premiers.
Because the black tie creative dress code invites people to be personal with their outfits, very strict behavior is not often required. Black tie creative events invite people to be social, friendly, and open-minded. Simply put, black tie creative dress code is the modern and flexible cousin of the more traditional black tie dress code.
The core outfit for men at a black tie creative event includes a tuxedo, patent leather shoes, and a bow tie. Vivid details such as a colorful pocket square, cummerbund, or vest are, not only tolerated but preferred.
Although a colorful tux is allowed, try not to go too overboard with colors. A nice set of colorful complementary accessories is usually the best way to create a personal style for a creative black tie event.
Black Tie Creative Dress Code Outfit:
✔ Tuxedo (preferably black, colorful also accepted)✔ Bow tie (usually black)
✔ Pocket square (usually white) or a lapel pin
✔ White tuxedo shirt (or an elegant, white dress shirt) with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes (with a dark blue tux, go with dark brown shoes)
✔ Few extra accessories to personalize your look (not mandatory)
X Don't go crazy with the colors (avoid bright tones & too many colors)
X A regular suit, even a fancy three-piece suit, will make you underdressed
X Necktie as a substitute for the bow tie
4. Formal Attire (Black Tie Optional)
The dress code formal attire, also known as black tie optional, is probably the most common formal dress code you will bump into. Many weddings, formal birthdays, and evening galas have formal attire set as the dress code.
When attending an event with formal attire (or black tie optional) set as the dress code, men should wear a dark tuxedo with a dark bow tie, along with a white shirt and black patent leather shoes. A dark suit is an acceptable substitute if you don't have a tuxedo lying around. Also, a dark-toned tie instead of a bow tie is an appropriate replacement. To complete the look, place a neatly folded white pocket square to the jacket's outer chest pocket.
Accessories such as a wristwatch, wedding ring, personal necklace, or bracelet are accepted as long as the look stays organized and clean. Large visible accessories, however, are not a regular thing at a formal attire event.
Don't wear any bright or light-colored tuxes or suits at a formal attire event. Generally, black and dark blue are the only accepted colors of a tux or suit. Moreover, you don't want to be the only person walking around with a light grey suit when other men are wearing black tuxedos.
Formal Attire (Black Tie Optional) Dress Code Outfit:
✔ Dark tuxedo, preferably black (dark suit is an acceptable substitute)✔ Bow tie, preferably black (dark necktie is an acceptable substitute)
✔ Pocket square (usually white)
✔ White tuxedo shirt (or an elegant, white dress shirt) with cufflinks
✔ Black patent leather shoes
✔ Few extra accessories to personalize your look (not mandatory)
X Other colored tux or suit than black or dark blue
X Mistakenly think the "optional" means a tie is optional
X Don't go overboard with accessories
5. Semi-Formal (Business Attire)
The semi-formal dress code, also known as business attire, is a fairly flexible dress code. It is globally adopted as the standard businessman look, ergo the name business attire. In addition to the business world, semi-formal attire is often worn at funerals, christenings, and other daytime occasions.
Men's standard outfit at a semi-formal (or business attire) dress code event is a suit and tie with either Oxford or Derby leather shoes. A white dress shirt is an obvious choice, but other colors such as striped blue are also acceptable options. Usually, the outfit is coupled with accessories like a pocket square, tie clip, wristwatch, or a pair of cufflinks.
Since the dress code is semi-formal, don't wear a tux. Being overdressed can look just as stupid as being underdressed. If you feel the need to look your best at a semi-formal dress code event, wear a three-piece suit. Classy suit accessories like a fancy tie, pocket square, tie clip, and cufflinks can help improve your look without much effort.
Semi-Formal (Business Attire) Dress Code Outfit:
✔ Suit (neutral colors like black, navy, or grey)
✔ Necktie (bow tie is an acceptable substitute)
✔ Button-up dress shirt (preferably white)
✔ Dress shoes (Oxfords or Derbys)
✔ Pocket square, cufflinks & a tie clip (not mandatory)
✔ Few extra accessories to personalize your look (not mandatory)
X Wear a tuxedo instead of a suit – don’t overdress
X Wearing a sports jacket or blazer is not appropriate – don’t dress too casually
X Sneakers are not appropriate for semi-formal footwear
6. Lounge Suit
The lounge suit dress code is a versatile etiquette. The lounge suit dress code essentially requires formal attire, but at the same time leaves room for personal preference in terms of color choice and suit style.
Lounge suits specifically refer to suits made of fine wool. If you don’t have a fine wool suit, a regular suit will also work. Dress codes are usually used for events that take place in the evening, such as when attending an opera or ballet performance.
For men, generally speaking, the required attire is a suit and tie. Although a three-piece suit is possible, a two-piece suit is preferred. The color of your suit should be adjusted according to the time of the event; a light-colored suit is appropriate for an event earlier in the day, and the later the event, the darker the suit.
When it comes to accessories, your hands are free to choose. If you want to wear a red floral tie, wear it. Of course, wear a yellow pocket square, why not! Don’t get too obsessed with accessories, though. For those who are not too keen on accessories, that’s fine. Just remember to wear a tie with your suit!
Blazer Dress Code:
✔ Suit (preferably a neutral color like navy or gray)✔ Tie
✔ Button-down dress shirt (preferably white)
✔ Dress shoes
✔ Pocket square, cufflinks, and tie clip (optional)
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Wear a tuxedo instead of a suit – don’t overdo it
X Don’t mix and match too many colors
X Sneakers are not suitable for blazer shoes
7. Cocktail Attire
The cocktail dress code is another very common etiquette. It is a dress code that is fairly formal but still leaves room for a personal look. Unlike the blazer dress code, cocktail dress code does not require men to wear a tie. In other respects, the two etiquettes are very similar.
At a cocktail dress code event, men should wear a suit and matching dress shoes. While a tie (or bow tie) is preferred, it is not a prerequisite. Blazers and sports jackets are also acceptable, as are a pair of loafers or brogues in place of dress shoes. Even trendy sneakers are sometimes permitted at cocktail parties.
Classic suit accessories, such as pocket squares, tie clips, and cufflinks, are welcome additions. Also, bracelets, necklaces, rings, and other conventional accessories are acceptable at cocktail dress code events.
When it comes to socks, stick to classic black or colored dress socks. Ankle socks and white sports socks are too casual for a cocktail party.
Cocktail Party Dress Code:
✔ Suit (blazer or sports jacket is OK)✔ Tie or bow tie (optional but preferred)
✔ Button-down dress shirt (preferably white)
✔ Dress shoes (loafers and brogues are OK)
✔ Black (or colored) dress socks
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Wearing a tuxedo instead of a suit is too formal
X Sneakers and jeans are too casual
X Ankle socks and white socks are too casual
8. Business Casual (Dressy Casual)
The business casual dress code, sometimes referred to as dressy casual, is a mix of formal and casual. More specifically, it is a professional business style with a relaxed vibe. This is the typical dress code for holiday or weekend workdays, Christmas parties, and summer graduations.
At events with a smart casual dress code, men should wear a button-down shirt (a polo shirt or formal sweater are suitable alternatives), a blazer or sports jacket, and pressed pants, such as slacks or khakis. As for shoes, anything from dress shoes to stylish sneakers will do.
A common mistake is wearing an outfit that is too casual. For example, pairing a polo shirt with light-colored jeans is a bit too casual. However, pairing a pair of dark blue jeans with a matching jacket, a dress shirt, and a tie is fine. Just don't forget to distinguish smart casual from business attire.
Accessories are a great way to freshen up your smart casual outfit. A clean watch or bracelet can instantly add personality and pizzazz to any style. If you plan on wearing a suit, add a colorful pocket square to add color to the look.
Business Casual (Style Casual) Dress Code:
✔ Blazer, blazer or sports jacket (preferred)✔ Button-down dress shirt, polo shirt or formal sweater
✔ Dress pants, slacks, khakis or corduroys (dark jeans are OK)
✔ Dress shoes, loafers, brogues (or stylish sneakers for a very casual look)
✔ Dress socks (colored or black)
✔ Tie (optional)
✔ Some extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Open-toed shoes are very casual
X Very casual is too casual
X Ankle socks and white athletic socks are not appropriate
9. Beach Formal
Beach formal is a dress code that provides flexibility in moderately formal etiquette. It is often seen at beach weddings, bachelor parties, and similar events held in the summer - preferably near the beach.
At beach formal events, men should wear a white or light-colored cotton or linen (silk if the weather is not too hot) dress shirt, straight-leg pants such as khakis or slacks, and a suit jacket or sports jacket. If there is a lot of direct sunlight, a Panama hat or straw hat is recommended. As for shoes, perforated leather shoes, loafers, boat shoes, and canvas shoes are your best choices.
At beach formal events, accessories such as ties, sunglasses, hats, or pocket squares/lapel pins are recommended, but not required. A typical mistake is to overdress in an attempt to look your best and end up sweating all over the event. Make sure you are well prepared for the weather and the possible sun and wind.
While the beach formal dress code allows for flexibility, there are certain things to avoid. These include sandals, short-sleeved shirts, and dark, dull three-piece suits. You also shouldn’t pair shorts with a blazer or sports jacket.
Beach Formal Dress Code:
✔ Blazer, blazer or sports jacket (preferred)✔ Linen or cotton button-down dress shirt (white or light-colored)
✔ Straight-leg pants, such as slacks, linen pants, or khakis
✔ Perforated leather shoes, loafers, boat shoes, or canvas shoes
✔ Sunglasses (optional but recommended)
✔ Tie or bow tie (optional)
✔ Straw hat - Panama, fedora, or similar hat (optional)
✔ Pocket square or lapel pin (optional)
X No short-sleeved shirts
X Sandals are too casual
X Dark, monotonous three-piece suits are inappropriate
10. Smart Casual
Smart casual dress code, sometimes referred to as preppy, is very common around the world. It has a wide range of flexibility and style variations. Business casual dress codes are often seen at formal casual events, informal work settings, and even some vacations.
When attending a business casual dress code event, men should wear a button-down dress shirt, blazer, sports jacket, and fitted pants such as khakis, corduroys, or jeans. Classic dress shoes, loafers, boat shoes, or brogues are also recommended. As for socks, black or colored dress socks are appropriate.
Depending on whether the business casual event is more formal, pair it with slacks, a dress shirt, a jacket, etc., and add a tie or pocket square (not both). However, if it is more casual, khakis or jeans, a button-down shirt, and a formal sweater are sufficient.
Personal accessories such as watches, sunglasses, rings, bracelets, and necklaces are acceptable, if not preferred. Colored clothing is also acceptable. Wearing something that adds personality is always recommended at a business casual dress code event.
Business Casual Dress Code Attire:
✔ Button-down dress shirt, polo shirt, formal sweater, or solid color t-shirt✔ Dress pants, slacks, khakis, corduroys, or jeans
✔ Dress shoes, loafers, brogues, boat shoes, or stylish sneakers
✔ Black or colored dress socks or ankle socks
✔ Blazer, blazer, or sports jacket (optional)
✔ Tie or pocket square (optional)
✔ A few extra accessories to personalize your look (optional)
X Open-toed shoes are still too casual
X Sweatpants, even in black, are too casual
X White sports socks are inappropriate
