Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Men’s Formal Dress

When you receive an invitation card for the formal party, this may be a
sign that you are having a move up your career path or it is your first
formal charity event. As you read the invitation you see listed among
the details "black tie". Does that mean you need to wear a tuxedo? Will
a suit do just as well?

If you want to feel comfortable and impress your host, determine what
formal attire is expected based on the terms used in the invitation as
well as the many choices ...

When you receive an invitation card for the formal party, this may be a
sign that you are having a move up your career path or it is your first
formal charity event. As you read the invitation you see listed among
the details "black tie". Does that mean you need to wear a tuxedo? Will
a suit do just as well?

If you want to feel comfortable and impress your host, determine what
formal attire is expected based on the terms used in the invitation as
well as the many choices available to you.

1. Black Tie is a common reference to a formal affair. If the invitation
specifically states 'black tie' you WILL be expected to come in a
tuxedo. You do not have to wear a black tuxedo - a grey tuxedo would be
equally acceptable.

You may also prefer to add some color or distinction to your outfit by
choosing a cummerbund, vest and tie that is a patterned or solid color.
Choose a sophisticated cuff link and finish the look with black patent
leather shoes.

The variety of styles available today allows you to customize your look
with the cut of the coat, the color of your accessories and they style
of neck wear. Depending on the event and your hosts you may determine if
too much self-expression would detract from the evening. If you are
unsure it is wise to stick with traditional black and white.

2. White Tie is the most formal dress request. It requires a strict
attention to tradition and does not permit the guest to deviate from an
accepted standard.

A White Tie event requires the men to be wearing a black, full dress
tailcoat, wing collar shirt, white pique vest and tie. You may also wish
to add such elegant touches as a top hat, cane and white gloves.

3. Traditional (or Formal) Morning Attire - Another take on formal wear
for day time events is the traditional morning attire. The most formal
suit is composed of a grey cutaway coat, striped trousers and grey vest
with a wing collar shirt and ascot. Less formal dress would substitute a
Stroller coat; lay down collar shirt and four-in-hand tie.

For non-traditional formal wear at a day time event you can wear a black
or grey tuxedo or even a white tuxedo for warm weather events.

4. Semi-formal allows the guest to wear either a black or grey tuxedo or
a suit. Seasonal appropriate colors can be used for day time affairs.

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