Dinner and luncheon parties are generally events where either close friends or professional associates gather to share a bit of light food and, at times, alcoholic beverages. These events are typically a bit more formal than a trip to the pub or public places, and call for an appropriate wardrobe accordingly.
What to Wear to a Formal Dinner Party or Luncheon
When the event is centered around a gathering of academic, professional, or political colleagues – the dress code is typically a bit stricter than it might be when conducting a more casual event with the general public or with established friends. A few basic tips can go a long way in making you more comfortable as well as in sharpening your image in the eyes of those around you.
For younger men, a few nice pairs of dress denim jeans can go a long way. Dark wash, indigo in hue, with the slightest bit of fade is the perfect choice to pair with a trim cut two button (or one button) blazer. A collared shirt (striped if the blazer is solid, solid if the blazer is patterned) or a fine cotton or wool sweater can really round out the look. Be sure to invest in some quality dress footwear, as sneakers are never appropriate for these functions.
For older fellows, a full suit may be in order if the event is particularly classy – say a gala event being held during a conference at a hotel or a political affair – and if not, there's always the option of a nice pair of corduroy or cotton casual pants paired with a soft-tone sportcoat. Grey, brown, and navy are all excellent choices when choosing a quality wool sportcoat, and pair very well with most cotton and cord pants.
One outfit is a safe bet to nearly every occasion, and that is the classic, crisp look. Every man should own at least one well-fitted, high quality white dress shirt and a plain black silk tie. Worn with a suit or sans blazer with a pair of dress pants, this outfit can easily be made more casual yet professional (simply remove the tie and undo the collar) and is an excellent catch all in a pinch.
What to Wear to a Casual Dinner Party or Social Gathering
It's a little bit easier to dress for casual events in the sense that there is no jacket required – with all apologies to Phil Collins. Here are a few great ideas for freshening up your casual look at casual dinner parties or social gatherings.
During the wintertime, the sweater is a particularly overlooked fashion item – particularly amongst younger men. A V-neck sweater or sweater vest can fit the bill if you're looking to dress to impress, while a cable knit turtle or mock-neck sweater is both warm and very comfortable.
If you have the physique for it, there's no reason that a well-fit black t-shirt and jeans can't be worn to a dinner party provided that the top is framed by a very thin casual jacket. Screenprinted designs are becoming much more acceptable in the fashion world and tasteful designs may even enhance your look.
Once again, corduroy is an excellent fabric to wear in the colder months, generally both rugged and able to retain warmth. Corduroy jackets and casual pants can be worn with light sweaters or long sleeved t-shirts to complete a more relaxed, urbane look. Think black, grey, burgundy, navy, charcoal, and chocolate brown.
By taking the time to ensure that you are well-groomed and well-dressed before setting out for the big shindig, you can ensure a much more confortable night as well as some potential new opportunities that may not otherwise have arisen!
Nicholas Morine - Nicholas Morine Bachelor of Arts, English Language & Literature Master of Philosophy, Humanities (Candidate) Memorial University ...
