If you’ve ignored a dress code in the past, you might know firsthand that if you wear the wrong thing is pretty much as awkward as wearing nothing at all. You need the right outfit, but first you need to understand dress code definitions.
We've assembled expert advice for the most common dress code types, with in-depth definitions and outfit ideas to help you look your best. Find the boiled-down definition of each dress code below, click through to learn more, or check out our FAQ section for quick answers.
Men's Dress Code Guides
Black Tie Attire For Men
This is the most formal dress code you'll encounter—think tuxedo with a black bow tie, like what you'd see at the Oscars or a fancy wedding. You'll need the full formal setup: tux jacket, matching pants, white dress shirt, and that classic black bow tie. It's the gold standard of evening wear.
Learn more about black tie for men ➝
Black Tie Optional Dress Code For Men
The host wants a formal vibe but understands not everyone owns a tuxedo, so you can choose between a full tux or your nicest dark suit with a tie. This gives you flexibility while still keeping the event feeling special and sophisticated. Think upscale wedding reception or charity gala where they want to be inclusive.
Learn more about black tie optional ➝
Cocktail Attire for Men
This calls for your best business suit—typically a dark navy, charcoal, or black suit with a nice dress shirt and tie. It's more formal than what you'd wear to the office but less intense than black tie, perfect for evening parties, corporate events, or upscale dinner gatherings. You want to look polished and put-together without going full formal.
Learn more about cocktail attire ➝
Festive Attire & Creative Black Tie for Men
Start with traditional black tie basics but add some personality—maybe a velvet jacket, colorful bow tie, or fun accessories that show your style. It's formal wear with a creative twist, often seen at holiday parties or artistic events where they want elegance with a bit of flair. The key is staying sophisticated while expressing yourself.
Learn more about men's festive attire ➝
Dress Codes FAQ
What are the different wedding dress code types?
In addition to the other eight hundred wedding-related decisions, couples often choose a wedding dress code. The wedding style, theme, venue, and time of day all help to determine the dress code. Dress codes range from formal black tie vows to a relatively low-key cocktail attire wedding. Around major holidays, you might see a festive attire wedding invite coming your way.
Why do guests have to follow the dress code?
Tracking down a tuxedo for a black tie wedding can feel like a totally unnecessary hassle, but the host is doing you a solid by setting expectations. The clearer the dress code, the less likely you are to look (and feel) out of place. You can still write a passive-aggressive note on your RSVP, but follow the dress code.
What should I wear if there is no dress code on the invitation?
For a wedding, take a conservative approach to wedding cocktail attire—you'll be in a good position whether it turns out to be a formal wedding or a casual one. For any other event, whether it be business or social, cocktail attire is a safe bet.
What's missing from each of these no-code suggestions? The tuxedo. You should never have to decide whether a tux is expected—this is why we have dress codes in the first place.
What about other dress code definitions? (e.g. Semi-Formal, Casual)
We don’t want to leave you hanging, but terms like "semi-formal" and "casual" are commonly misused (probably because the internet can't even agree). For example, "semi-formal" is traditionally another way of saying black tie attire, but a lot of the information out there recommends wearing a dark suit and tie (aka cocktail attire). Basically, we don't want to make a recommendation when the invite might accidentally be sending the wrong signal.
If your invite does request "semi-formal" attire or another confusing code (dressy casual?), text the couple for clarification. That seems like a lot, but they'll probably appreciate the consideration.
The Perfect Suit for Every Dress Code
When it comes to men's dress codes, there is no "one suit you need" to cover every situation. So what's the right move—buy or rent?
Buying a Italian wool tuxedo is a great investment, but it doesn’t make sense for everybody. We’ve rented from the local tux depot, and we know that doesn’t make sense for anybody. Thats why we design tuxedos and suits with better fabrics and a modern fit, and deliver them to you—whether you're building a wardrobe or renting for a one-off event.
