Dress codes for men, explained

From most to least formal. Pick the one on your invite to see what it means and exactly what to wear.

1. Black tie

   A tuxedo and bow tie. It’s the most formal dress code most invites use, so a regular suit will stand out.

2. Black tie optional

   A dark, well-fitted suit and tie is fully correct. A tux is welcome but not expected.

3. Cocktail attire

   A tailored suit, just not a tux. A tie is the safer choice, though many cocktail invites treat it as optional. Go darker after 6pm.

4. Beach formal

   Suit-level polish in light colours and breathable cloth. Ties are usually optional.

5. Semi-formal

   Between casual and formal: dress trousers and a collared shirt with a sport coat or suit. The tie is your call.

6. Smart casual

   A jacket with no tie is the sweet spot. Collared shirt, real trousers, leather shoes.

7. Casual

   No jacket needed, but look like you tried. Clean, fitted and pressed beats expensive.

Other wording you’ll see on invites

• Business casual

  Business casual for men means dress trousers or chinos, a collared button-up shirt and leather shoes. A blazer is optional, and a tie usually isn’t needed.

• Dressy casual

  Dressy casual for men means a collared shirt with dress trousers or chinos, usually a sport coat or blazer, and leather shoes. A tie is optional, and jeans are usually too casual.

• Festive attire

  Festive attire for men means cocktail-level dressing with a seasonal touch: a dark suit or blazer with one festive element, like a velvet jacket, a burgundy or green tie, or a patterned pocket square.

• Garden party attire

  Garden party attire for men means a light-colored suit or a blazer with chinos, a crisp shirt, and loafers or suede shoes that can handle grass. A tie is optional.

• White tie

  White tie is the most formal dress code: a black tailcoat with matching trousers, a white wing-collar shirt, a white piqué waistcoat and a white bow tie, with black patent shoes. A tuxedo isn’t enough.

Dressing for a specific event? See what to wear to weddings, parties, interviews and more.