You’ve just received an invitation—fancy envelope, gold lettering, the works. After a brief moment of panic about the gift and whether you can skip the event (you can’t), the real dilemma hits: What are you going to wear?
Whether the event calls for casual comfort, something refined, or the ever-confusing semi-formal dress code, choosing the right outfit can feel like a challenge. But don’t stress—this guide breaks down what each dress code means and how to nail the look with confidence.
CASUAL EVENT DRESS CODE
@johanneshuebl 1m followers.
Casual Dress Code Guide:
A ‘casual’ dress code doesn’t mean pulling out your old track pants. Casual looks can differ based on the occasion, like a backyard BBQ or a relaxed wedding. This Casual Dress Code Guide helps you choose the right outfit, so you stay comfortable while still looking neat and presentable.
Best practice is to dress on the higher scale of casual. The worst thing that can happen is that you’re the best dressed guy at the event! You cannot go wrong with chinos dressed with a button down shirt.
Tip: Tuck in that shirt and have a tasteful belt on show. If the event is more casual than expected simply un-tuck your shirt!
Chinos not your vibe? Jeans with a tailored cut and button-down shirt, or a tee layered with a jacket will also fit the bill. Depending on the event you may be able to wear dressy sneakers (not your gym shoes) but.... if you are at an event being held at a venue, then throw on a pair of boat shoes or loafers - you can't go wrong!
SEMI-FORMAL EVENT DRESS CODE
@paul_juchina 37.9k followers.
Semi-Formal Dress Code Guide Australia:
The semi-formal dress code gives you the perfect chance to bring out that stylish sports coat you’ve been saving. Pair it with chinos or smart trousers for a polished look. This versatile style works well for everything from cocktail events to birthday celebrations and dinner parties.
If you’re new to the sports coat game then keep it simple with colours like navy, charcoal or bone… but without a doubt brighter colours, checks and textures are a head turner. Ties aren't always required but keep your shirt TUCKED IN!
Tip: Your belt should complement your shoes, brown shoes = brown belt.
Your pants should not look like SKINS! Tapered does not mean skin-tight, if you’re really worried about compression recovery then wear your Skins under your nicely tapered navy, bone, green, tan and even white chinos.
With shoes, stick with a low-cut shoe, try suede or a loafer and some cases even a cool dressy sneaker if you really want to funk it up… but be mindful.
FORMAL EVENT DRESS CODE
@fabioattanasio 265k followers.
Formal Dress Code Guide:
A formal dress code calls for polished and classic dressing. Stick to a well-fitted suit and a plain shirt for a timeless look. At cocktail events, a lounge suit is ideal, with added style through shoes, pocket squares, or cufflinks. A tie is usually expected but sometimes optional in warm weather.
Tip: Give your outfit a little extra detail like a black buttoned dinner shirt, cool cufflinks and use a tie clip with a necktie.
Black Tie calls for you to break out your best ‘Bond’ look. Stick to a tux (dinner suit) white shirt and black bow tie combo. Dark suits are usually an acceptable alternative if you don’t own a tux. If you aren’t a fan of bow ties, opt for a simple black necktie and try to skip crazy colours and patterns... but you'll definitely have to keep your tie on for this one. A nice black dress shoe will always fly right… but if you want more spring in the step bring out the patent leather, guaranteed extra jazz!