Men’s Fashion Guide: What To Wear to a Formal Dinner
Dressing appropriately is one of the most important aspects of attending a formal dinner. It helps you make a positive first impression and allows you to fit in with the tone of the event. Striking the balance between class and sophistication while maintaining a sense of comfort means having many options to choose from, so it’s a good idea to cover the basics.
MondoUomo wants to help you look your best, so here’s a handy men’s fashion guide on what to wear to a formal dinner. With our straightforward advice, you can feel confident in your clothes and allow yourself to fully enjoy the social event without feeling out of place.
Understanding the Formal Dinner Dress Code
The first thing to figure out is what type of event you’re attending. The phrase “formal dinner” can have many implications depending on the location, occasion, and level of exclusivity. Many proper invitations will state the dress code for the event, but don’t be afraid to ask the host for clarification.
The most common distinctions for dress code are black tie, white tie, or business formal. Understanding the differences between these terms allows you to prepare a proper outfit for the occasion. Black tie exclusive refers to tuxedos and formal attire. A black dinner jacket, matching trousers, a formal dress shirt, a bow tie, and matching shoes suffice.
White tie typically aims for an even higher level of elegance, requiring white clothing, a waistcoat, and a white bow tie. Business casual is the most common of the three and the most open for interpretation. Typically, these events call for a well-fitted suit, a nice tie, and proper dress shoes.
Choosing the Right Suit or Tuxedo
Once you know the dress code, you can pick out a nice suit or tuxedo to serve as the foundation for the rest of your outfit. A classic black tuxedo is the perfect choice for a black-tie dinner since it offers a timeless quality and flattering aesthetic. A formal event without explicit clarification may allow for a two- or three-piece suit to fit the atmosphere.
The most important thing when choosing a suit or tuxedo is that it fits. Even the nicest suit looks out of place at a formal event if it doesn’t fit your frame. Find a jacket with clean, structured shoulders and trousers that rest at your waist without sagging. Slim or modern-fit styles offer a contemporary look without stretching the fabric too tight.
If the event doesn’t specify black tuxedos, you could try a stylish alternative, like a resplendent suit in midnight blue. Certain suits allow for patterned jackets that can add a splash of personality without breaking the dress code. However, if you’re unsure, check with the host.
Selecting the Perfect Shirt
Even the finest tuxedo doesn’t look right if you pair it with the wrong shirt. Fortunately, you can’t go wrong with a classic white button-up shirt. White goes with nearly every color or style of jacket without feeling too out of place.
Formal black-tie events may require you to consider extra details, like finding a shirt with a wing or spread collar and French cuffs. Many men pair their tuxedos with a pleated shirt, which is optional but can elevate the look. White-tie dress codes call for a stiff-front pique shirt with a detachable wing collar, which offers the highest level of formality.
The most popular fabric options for such events are poplin and twill, as they offer a crisp appearance that’s aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. Remember to freshly press your shirt before the evening of the big event.
The Bow Tie or Necktie Dilemma
When figuring out what to wear to a formal dinner, a common dilemma is whether to wear a bow tie or necktie. Black-tie or white-tie events exclusively call for bow ties. Your outfit can always stand out more by investing in a self-tied instead of a pre-tied bow.
A business-formal event gives you more freedom and allows for a classic necktie. However, your choice in tie can still set the mood. You should find a solid color that matches your suit jacket or something with subtle patterns. A geometric floral pattern or thin stripes offer flair without feeling overbearing. Consider investing in a nice tie from a high-quality brand like Italo Ferretti to maintain a sense of class and formality.
Dressing Up Your Footwear
Shoes are one of the easiest aspects of your outfit to overlook, but they can complement your suit and tie your entire look together. A formal dinner calls for polished leather shoes. Black oxfords are a good choice for a black- or white-tie event, as they offer a sense of elegance and sheen.
Even slightly less formal occasions often call for a nice leather dress shoe. Remember to polish your shoes and keep them in good condition. Scuff marks or other blemishes may clash with an otherwise well-chosen outfit.
Elevating Your Look With Accessories
After finalizing your outfit, you can add personal touches to help yourself stand out from the crowd. Pocket squares are a nice addition, but be sure the color or pattern matches your suit and tie. White is a safe color choice, but this is a good opportunity to add a bolder splash of color to your look.
Cuff links are another accessory that refines your outfit. Choose minimalist yet elegant designs, keeping them consistent with the other metal accents in your outfit, such as your watch or belt buckle. A good rule of thumb for belts is to use a leather belt that matches the color of your shoes. If you’re attending a black-tie event with a tuxedo and suspenders, a belt is unnecessary.
Making Every Detail Count
Attending a formal dinner provides a unique opportunity to showcase your sense of style and awareness of etiquette. By considering every detail of your outfit, from the fit of your tuxedo to the polish of your shoes, you’ll make a memorable impression. Whichever event you attend, you’ll walk into the room with the confidence and sophistication worthy of a true gentleman.
Look your best at your next formal gathering with MondoUomo. Explore a vast collection of men’s designer dress shirts to elevate your wardrobe. Combine sophistication with modern design by browsing our online storefront and finding a piece that speaks to your needs.
