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Basic Male Dress Code Etiquette
- By Hendrik Pohl
- Published 12/11/2008
- Inspiration and Motivation
- Unrated
Hendrik Pohl
H Pohl is an expert author on men's fashion. He has a strong interest in fine neckties and cufflinks. His passion for wearing ties inspired him to start his own online necktie retailer, Ties-Necktie.com. Besides fine designer ties the store offers designer cufflinks and formal bow ties.
View all articles by Hendrik Pohl
If you are a little confused about all the different types of dress codes out there, then you are not alone. In fact, phrases such as “black tie attire”, “how to dress business casual”, “what is semi-formal attire”, and so on, are searched thousands of times a day on Google and other search engines. This article is a quick guide to the most common dress codes for men. If you are invited to a function calling for any of the dress codes below, then following this quick guide will safe you from unnecessary embarrassment.
Formal Attire
Formal attire, or more specifically "black tie" attire will require you to wear a classic black tuxedo. The tuxedo is traditionally combined with a solid color black bow tie, black tuxedo dress shoes, and either a vest or a cummerbund. Cufflinks, studs and pocket squares are common accessories. If you want to dress elegantly and follow the “gold standard” of black tie attire, then dress the way described above.
"Warm Weather" Back Tie
As the name indicates, “Warm Weather Black Tie” refers to a formal function occurring during the day and in warm weather. Such functions are typically associated with open-air events. Formal weddings are a classic example. Just like standard black tie attire, warm weather black tie traditionally requires a bow tie. The black bow tie is still the preferred neckwear of choice. The tuxedo jacket is typically white instead of the traditional black. If you choose to wear a pocket square, then most common is a fine black pocket square. It will set a nice contrast to the white dinner jacket and add a classy touch to our outfit.
"Black Tie" Optional
As the name suggests, "Black Tie" optional dress code means that it is your choice weather or not to wear a tuxedo. This type of dress code is sometimes also called "semi-formal" attire. Wearing a tuxedo is definitely the preferred option if you happen to own one. There is no need to rent one or buy one however. Instead of a tuxedo a black or dark gray 2-piece suit, white dress shirt, polished black shoes, and a formal necktie are well-accepted alternatives. If you like the look of the tuxedo, then you have the option to choose a non-black bow tie color. Instead of black, silver, dark blue and burgundy colored bow ties are common.
Business Dress Code
Depending on your industry and your company’s culture, business attire can vary widely. Traditional business attire consists of 2-piece suit, dress shirt, and necktie. The most popular dress shirt colors are white, blue, gray, and even light pink. The most popular necktie colors are blue and burgundy red. Striped neckties are also very popular.
"Business Casual" Dress Code
Business casual means to dress nicely but not too formal. Leave your suit at home. Wear dress pants, a button up dress shirt, and dress shoes. Polo shirts and khaki pants are also very acceptable. Things to avoid are jeans, tennis shoes, and t-shirts.
If you follow the quick pointers above you will be in good shape. If you are uncertain about the right attire, then make a call to the host. It is better to check before than showing up in costume where none is required.
Formal Attire
Formal attire, or more specifically "black tie" attire will require you to wear a classic black tuxedo. The tuxedo is traditionally combined with a solid color black bow tie, black tuxedo dress shoes, and either a vest or a cummerbund. Cufflinks, studs and pocket squares are common accessories. If you want to dress elegantly and follow the “gold standard” of black tie attire, then dress the way described above.
"Warm Weather" Back Tie
As the name indicates, “Warm Weather Black Tie” refers to a formal function occurring during the day and in warm weather. Such functions are typically associated with open-air events. Formal weddings are a classic example. Just like standard black tie attire, warm weather black tie traditionally requires a bow tie. The black bow tie is still the preferred neckwear of choice. The tuxedo jacket is typically white instead of the traditional black. If you choose to wear a pocket square, then most common is a fine black pocket square. It will set a nice contrast to the white dinner jacket and add a classy touch to our outfit.
"Black Tie" Optional
As the name suggests, "Black Tie" optional dress code means that it is your choice weather or not to wear a tuxedo. This type of dress code is sometimes also called "semi-formal" attire. Wearing a tuxedo is definitely the preferred option if you happen to own one. There is no need to rent one or buy one however. Instead of a tuxedo a black or dark gray 2-piece suit, white dress shirt, polished black shoes, and a formal necktie are well-accepted alternatives. If you like the look of the tuxedo, then you have the option to choose a non-black bow tie color. Instead of black, silver, dark blue and burgundy colored bow ties are common.
Business Dress Code
Depending on your industry and your company’s culture, business attire can vary widely. Traditional business attire consists of 2-piece suit, dress shirt, and necktie. The most popular dress shirt colors are white, blue, gray, and even light pink. The most popular necktie colors are blue and burgundy red. Striped neckties are also very popular.
"Business Casual" Dress Code
Business casual means to dress nicely but not too formal. Leave your suit at home. Wear dress pants, a button up dress shirt, and dress shoes. Polo shirts and khaki pants are also very acceptable. Things to avoid are jeans, tennis shoes, and t-shirts.
If you follow the quick pointers above you will be in good shape. If you are uncertain about the right attire, then make a call to the host. It is better to check before than showing up in costume where none is required.
