The 7 Deadly Sins of Style Sin #2: Not Dressing for the Occasion

Have you ever showed up to a cocktail party in a pair of rugged jeans? How about a BBQ in a shirt and tie? No one likes to stand out at an event over or under dressed. Here are a few basic guidelines to make sure you look sharp and appropriate for any given occasion: 

White Tie – This is the most formal type of male attire. White Tie events include the high-priced purchase of tailcoats, piped trousers, and white waistcoats. These events will range from large charity events to a gala.

Black Tie – Also known as evening dress, the guests must be wearing a black or midnight blue jacket with matching pants. A silk bowtie is the only appropriate form of neckwear and this outfit is paired with patent leather shoes or extremely polished Oxfords. The shirt is to be white with French cuffs and cuff links.

Black Tie Optional – Similarly to black tie, Black Tie Optional is formal wear but the guests don’t need to wear a tuxedo. A solid, dark suit and polished Oxfords suffice.

Semi-Formal or Business Dress – The guests must be wearing a dark suit with a shirt and tie. If wearing patterns, the color should be light and the pattern should be minimal.

Business-Casual or Dress-Casual – This means the tie is optional and a sport coat can be traded up with a sweater or vest. The shirt is still collared and dress pants are anticipated. Any type of leather shoe is appropriate.

Casual – Casual does not mean ripped jeans from the 80s and a Zeppelin t-shirt. Jeans and casual shirts such as polo or golf shirts are appropriate. Dress shorts will be considered if weather permitting. Leather sandals or boat shoes are ideal.

When attending a casual dress event, be sure to wear an outfit that can be adjusted. A suit can be too formal but you can dress it down by taking off your tie. Similarly, a jacket of a casual outfit can be removed to relax the outfit.