Let’s face it – many guys struggle with dress codes. It’s not a poor reflection on the hardier sex, just that sometimes the difference between them is hidden in the subtle nuances. So hidden at times that they would get forgiven for not always knowing how to precisely nail a dress code.
If this sounds like you, and you perhaps need a little extra help from time to time to decipher what is expected from you – you’re in luck! Your well-dressed, dapper ship has come in. Read on for seven of the simplest ways to rock a dress code and feel super manly while you do it. Rawr.
Table of Contents
Read The Room
The first thing to understand is the country where the event is. That is the first step. Spain has a different idea of what casual is to London, and America is somewhere in between those two.
The general rule of thumb is that the more laid-back the country is, the more chilled the dress code will be. Learn to read the room on this one – if you get invited to a 5-star wedding at a fancy boutique hotel, please don’t wear Crocs. Let’s be honest – no one should ever wear those, but the comfort levels are understandable for at-home use only.
Grooming
You can dress up as much as you like, with the fanciest tie and the most expensive suit – but if you’re not well groomed, it will mean nothing. There is little worse than a well-dressed man whose hair looks like it hasn’t seen a brush in years.
Personal hygiene, a good skincare routine, and grooming are just as vital as wearing a tailored suit. These two elements work together, creating a stylish balance that is hard to ignore.
The Right Shoes
Shoes can make or break an outfit. There are some basic rules for shoes that all men should obey; some of these include pairing shoes and outfits correctly. These essential style rules should never get broken.
That is what is meant to prevent suit pants from being paired with flip-flops, and yet that still happens. The best way around this easy foot fail is to have a collection of staple shoes in your closet – including an all-important pair of business casual sneakers. Those shoes can be paired with just about anything and still look great.
Tie Perfection
Buying a tie isn’t as simple as some people think. It isn’t just about brand, color, or pattern – there is more to ties than that. A suitable tie should also match your physical build and clothing style.
A good rule of thumb is to pay attention to its width and length. The ideal tie should be no wider than 3.75 inches for an average-sized man – so be careful with your choice of tie width. The last rule is that your chosen tie should be long enough to reach your belt buckle – anything shorter and you’ll look quite silly.
Accessories
Accessories can make any outfit look ten times better, as long as they are well selected. All women know that accessories elevate the outfit instantly, and yet when it comes to men’s fashion they are still somewhat underrated.
Take your outfit to the next level by adding a few well-placed accessories. Think watches, glasses, hats, and cufflinks. That will add instant style to smart casual clothing, and enhance your outfit.
Belt
You would be appalled to know just how many men don’t own a belt – not just that they don’t own one in a specific color, we’re talking not at all. The horror!
Apart from serving a very useful purpose, like holding up your pants – belts are a style statement on their own. Dating back centuries, belts have been used since ancient times – specifically during the Bronze Age.
Nowadays, belts are worn for both practical and aesthetic reasons and are available in a variety of styles, materials, and colors. The only way to truly rock a dress code is to wear a belt that suits the occasion.
Colors
When it comes to doing a dress code proper justice, never forget about the all-important rule of color coding. The color of your suit should depend on the season, time of day, level of formality you need to project, and your skin tone.
Investing in a quality suit will set you back a pretty penny, so make sure you buy the right color for the event. Navy and black suits are an insanely popular choice – and most men look great in a gray suit – it all depends on your look and style.
Choose your next suit carefully, and it will serve you well for years.
