Choosing outfits for a variety of events and weddings can be overwhelming. We can curate the perfect outfit for you, whether it’s your big day or you’re a member of the wedding party. Our formalwear options range from formal black tie event to more casual and cocktail party attire.
Whether you’re doing traditional black tie or something with a quirky twist, our custom options are nearly endless.
Classic Black Tie
The best choice for a black tie occasion is a classic black tuxedo or dinner jacket. A peak or shawl lapel are most appropriate; a notched lapel is acceptable, but is best avoided if at all possible.
Pair it with a Tuxedo Shirt, the most expressive piece in formalwear. Check out our guide that breaks down all the essential details to consider when choosing your tuxedo shirt. A bibbed tuxedo shirt is the most traditional and formal, while a covered placket or plain front is more modern. Especially if you’re the groom, this is a striking yet simple way to elevate your tuxedo
Have your best black lace-ups shined in advance (patent leather shoes are traditional but not required these days).
Lastly, a great black tie outfit requires impeccable attention to detail. Complete your look with accessories such as a black bow tie, pocket square, tuxedo studs, or cufflinks.
Formal or Black Tie Optional
These dress codes are typically for evening events and indicate something slightly less formal than Black Tie. You don’t need a tuxedo, but the event is formal enough for one to be suitable.
We recommend a dark navy, charcoal, or black suit, crisp white shirt, and a dark tie to pull the whole look together. This elegant combination will help you blend in while the tailoring and quality of the suit will make you stand out.
A well-fitted suit purchased for weddings and formal events can be a versatile option for other occasions, too. Pull it out for business dinners, job interviews, and even on date night. The suit will easily become a staple in your wardrobe.
Cocktail Attire
Cocktail or semi formal attire has become one of the most popular wedding dress codes. It can, however, be a little ambiguous for those who have not attended a lot of weddings. In this case, avoid a black suit or tuxedo and go for a well-tailored suit jacket with a solid colored shirt.
Note that a tie is optional here but encouraged. For this type of attire, we advise that it’s best to take cues from the event’s location.
- If the event takes place at a private club or mansion, wear a tie.
- If the event takes place at a country home or farm, you can choose an open collar look instead.
Again, a solid shirt is your best bet, but feel free to deviate from white into blues here. Dress shoes and lace-ups are both approved footwear.
Beach or Tropical
Time to have some fun. This event is definitely less formal than a cocktail event, so you can play around with color and pattern here. Go with a seasonal, lighter colored suit such as cream, beige, light grey, or faded blue and opt for a more relaxed-fitting shirt.
Linen blends are perfect for these occasions, and the bold shouldn’t overlook a printed Aloha shirt. Pay close attention to any specific attire requests from the couple. We often see requests for guests to wear certain colors, such as pale neutral shades only.
Feel free to skip the tie for this event for a relaxed and comfortable look. Loafers or espadrilles are the play here.
At Proper Cloth, choose from our selection of over 500 shirting fabrics and over 30 suiting fabrics from the best mills in the business. From classic white broadcloth to contemporary prints and color palettes, we’ve got tons of options to fit your vision.
Casual or Come as Your Are
This can be one of the more confusing events to dress for. We’re here to guide you in the right direction.
Just because the dress code says ‘casual’ doesn’t mean you should arrive in jeans and a t-shirt. While a suit is too formal, a sport coat with trousers (no tie) strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. This shows respect for the importance of the special occasion without feeling out of place. It’s a polished option that is still comfortable and relaxed.
Opting for a patterned shirt or a textured fabric for your jacket and pants is a great play here. A quick guide on fabric is to go for linen in the summer and wool flannels in the winter. Go for loafers or monkstraps (avoid lace-ups and sneakers).
For your convenience, we’ve curated these looks for each occasion. Check out our full guide with product links in Our Wedding Shop.
Assemble Your Own Event Looks With a Stylist
Create a formal event wardrobe that fits your style with one of our personal stylists. We will help you assemble and customize an updated wardrobe with stylish and timeless pieces.
Looking to dress your groomsmen? We have the Perfect Fit for your entire Wedding Party. We’ve got you and your groomsmen covered with custom shirts, suits, and tuxedos—in-store and via video call. Book an appointment now. We can help choose the ideal outfit that suits your personal style and the occasion.