Dress Code Is a Gentleman's Very Good Friend

It really is that simple. A dress code is, in fact, a very practical guide. And it is also straightforward, at least where menswear is concerned. Follow a few rules and you can be confident you will arrive at any event perfectly dressed.

Dress Code Is a Gentleman's Very Good Friend

Text: Lucie KrůčkováPhoto: Lucie Robinson / Ilja Hubálek

It really is so. A dress code is essentially a very practical guide. And it is also simple, at least as far as menswear is concerned. You just need to follow a few rules and you can be sure you will arrive at the event perfectly dressed. We have prepared for you an overview of the most common dress codes with a description of the attire that is expected.

The dress code on the invitation is a guideline from the organiser of the event. It is a mutually beneficial instruction. The organiser wants to keep the event at a certain level, which the dress code helps to ensure. And you are freed from any doubt about what would be appropriate to wear. You will not find yourself showing up in attire that is too ceremonial or formal, or conversely stepping out in an overly casual outfit. Both are wrong. By dressing according to the dress code, you show the host your respect for both him and the occasion.

If you see the words "black tie" on the invitation, the matter is clear. Your host expects you to arrive in a tuxedo. The tuxedo is a very formal evening attire that a gentleman wears to evening events beginning after 6 p.m. This dress code is binding and is most often required at various premieres, balls, and also state banquets. Knowing it demonstrates the maturity of a gentleman.

The tuxedo is a classically cut suit. The jacket has a longer cut and features glossy lapels of silk or satin. The trousers have side stripes made of the same material as the lapels. They need not be purely black; a tuxedo in dark blue shades is also acceptable.

Tip…… do not be afraid of sophisticated fabric patterns. They will lend your tuxedo a distinctive touch of individuality.

A tuxedo calls for a white formal shirt with a covered placket or with black studs. At the neck, a gentleman ties a black bow tie. Be careful: it must never be a necktie. You may also accessorise your tuxedo with a cummerbund and a waistcoat. On your feet wear quality black patent leather lace-up shoes.

For an event where this dress code is required, you may wear a tuxedo. However, you may also opt for a classic black suit.

A superb dress code for all those who like to show off their own creative personality even at a formal event. You can swap the classic accessories of the black tie dress code for original and imaginative pieces. The black bow tie may be replaced with a more interesting version. For instance, a tuxedo, a black formal shirt, and a white bow tie look splendid.

The most ceremonial dress code that may appear on an invitation. For the event, you are to wear a classic tailcoat. Under the tailcoat, put on a white piqué waistcoat and a shirt with a wing collar, complemented by a white bow tie. The trousers are always black, as are the quality patent leather lace-up shoes. The whole dress code should be crowned with white gloves.

Beware...... the tailcoat jacket is never buttoned.... wristwatches are not permitted. They may be replaced with a pocket watch on a chain.

The host of an event whose invitation states the black suit dress code expects gentlemen to arrive in black suits. Black should also be the colour of the accessories, the shoes, and even the socks. The tie or bow tie need not be pure black, but should be very discreet.

Tip...... this dress code also allows a deep dark blue suit, the so-called midnight blue. It is a pleasant refreshment of this very formal outfit.

Still a very formal dress code, which, however, allows you to wear a classic suit to the event. You are expected to arrive in a quality, well-fitting suit, complemented by a quality shirt and leather shoes.

The basic rule for choosing the colour of the suit is the time the event is held. If it is an event beginning before 6 p.m., the suit should be in subtle shades of blue and grey. You may complement the shirt with an interesting tie or tie a bow tie. If, on the other hand, you are invited to an evening event beginning after 6 p.m., reach for a dark suit. The ideal colours are midnight blue, dark graphite, or indeed pure black.

Business formal (business attire)

The most formal dress code required in certain professions. It is very popular among senior finance executives, diplomats, and lawyers.

A very strict dress code that requires a dark suit. Pure black may be required directly, but it is often alternated with dark blue or grey. The foundation is quality fabric and impeccable tailoring of a suit that fits the wearer to perfection.

A more relaxed work dress code, often prescribed by companies for everyday wear when the employee has no important meetings with clients.

The dress code still calls for a quality suit, but quality separate jacket and trousers are also permitted. At its most relaxed end, it is possible to wear trousers, a quality shirt, and a discreet sweater.

Did you like this post? Pass it on…

Cookies

Here you have the option to customize cookies in accordance with your own preferences and to set them in more detail later or to turn them off at any time in the footer of the website.