The mention of the words ‘dress code’ for a party invite or job interview is enough to make some men rethink about showing up. Yet dress codes have existed long before we were born. 

Luckily enough, wardrobe requirements have loosened up in the past decade and there aren’t as many events today that require guests to follow a specific way of dressing up. Still, because these events do exist, it pays to know what to wear so you don’t stick out like a sore (and poorly-dressed) thumb.

Formal: White Tie

If there’s any dress code that asks you to pay special attention to your attire, it’s this. White tie events are at the top of the list when it comes to formal dressing. To nail it, you need to dress to the nines. 

Typically, these events require men to wear their best tuxedo (with tails), a white tux shirt (pleated or bib design), a white waistcoat, a white bow tie, and black patent-leather dress shoes. 

It’s a strict dress code so there’s usually no room for creative interpretation. Any visible accessories that you wear, in fact, must complement the look entirely, such as a vintage pocket watch, white gloves, or a top hat.

Semi-Formal: Black Tie

A black tie event may ask for a different ensemble depending on the time of day for the event. In daylight hours, men may be expected to show up in a “stroller” attire—a relaxed alternative to the morning dress. If evening, then this typically means a full tuxedo ensemble and suit. A black or midnight blue tuxedo jacket with a rising lapel or shawl collar is a safe choice for these events. You can also choose between a cummerbund or tuxedo waistcoat. 

The cherry on top of the attire is, naturally, the black bow tie. You can also complement the look with a white silk-material dress handkerchief or cuff links.

Business

The sidewalks and offices of Wall Street are filled with gentlemen donning this professional attire. While not as strict as the two dress codes mentioned above, a business dress code does call for something formal. 

Business meetings, brunches with the boss, and negotiations are examples of when business attire is required. Wear a darker, solid color for your matched suit, with a conservative tie and leather shoes.

Business Casual

Some flexibility in your choice of clothing is allowed for business casual events. Usually, the popular (and safe) choice for men is a collared shirt, jacket, light or medium gray slacks (khakis are okay too), and a tie. And because we’re still aiming for a hint of professionalism, leather shoes and dressy socks should also be worn.

Smart Casual

To pull off the smart casual look like a pro, there are two keywords: professional and fluid. Yet depending on the season, location, and people you’re meeting, smart casual can mean different things. In essence, however, it can be any outfit that you can comfortably wear to a casual business meeting yet won’t make you look too formal for laidback situations.  

Oxford dictionary sums it up well: Smart casual is neat, conventional, yet relatively informal in style. 

One good rule to follow is to keep the location and occasion in mind when dressing up.

Casual

The casual dress code, while still open for interpretation, affords you the most flexibility. It’s about striking the right balance between comfort, style, and personality. Casual wear clothes are also outfits you can confidently wear every day with no strict rules and a few limits to consider. 

In fact, the rules to follow are all dependent on the occasion you are invited to. When in doubt, it’s better to play it on the safe side and show up a little too formal than under-dressed. 

An event is an opportunity for us to look good and communicate our willingness to take part in the festivities or occasion. Getting familiar with the different dress codes gives you ample time to plan and prepare your outfit, as well as your partner’s.