Being invited to a formal event either excites people or terrifies them. Some men like the glitz, glamour, and general ambiance of such an event, while some men simply prefer not to attend such events. However, there will always be times when you are compelled to attend. Dressing and acting accordingly are the two crucial elements when attending any formal event and in this article, we’ll try to cover the most important aspects.

The first issue most people have when being invited to a formal event is getting the right clothes together. Few people own a tuxedo, dress shoes, leather suspenders or any other item of suitable attire for such an occasion, so there will be a need to either buy new accessories and clothes or to settle on renting. There are also the acceptable behaviours befitting a formal event and if you are nervous, it is quite acceptable to have a stiff drink before you leave the house; just make sure not to have too many. You may be expected to speak to people and network with others whom you barely know, first impressions do count and being visibly under the influence is certainly not a good look! If you can bear the following tips in mind, you should have a reasonable time.

Getting It Right For A Formal Event

As previously mentioned, if you don’t have the right attire for a formal event you will need to buy it or hire it. The clothes you wear largely depend on the type of event or occasion you are invited to and can be any of the following:

• White Tie – Also known as ‘full dress,’ this is the most formal event of them all and is held very rarely. The dress consists of a white waistcoat worn over a white full-dress stiff bosom shirt with a white pique wing collar and finished with a white bow tie. Black pleated trousers with a black satin strip (known as a tuxedo stripe) held up by quality white suspenders such as vintage men’s suspenders complete the outfit. It should be noted that if you are invited to a White Tie event, you should do your very best to attend, as an invite is considered an honor and such event is usually held in auspicious venues such as royal palaces and the White House.

• Black Tie – Black Tie is the term used for most other well-heeled events and although miles removed from a White Tie event, you still need to pay attention to the dress code which includes a classic black tuxedo, black bow tie, black patent leather oxfords, and a simple pocket square. These occasions, although formal, tend to get more relaxed as the evening wears on and the drinks start flowing.

• Lounge – This type event, although formal, allows attendees to inject a bit more personality into their choice of clothes. A dark suit with brown or black shoes usually fits the bill for a lounge event, you can also add some funky suspenders or hat if you like! These events can be held in the day or the evening and are generally relaxed affairs.

There are many more formal events with differing dress codes. If in doubt, approach your menswear specialist for advice.