Dress codes exist to help give us an idea of what to wear to any given event. Typically, the organiser of the event will inform the guest of the dress code when inviting them. However, depending on the event, the dress code is often assumed. In order of least formal to most formal, below is a list of some of the most common men’s dress codes for modern events: Casual Smart Casual Business Casual Business Semi-Formal and Cocktail To better understand what to wear for each dress code and common events that follow them, let’s take a closer look at each of these now. What is Men’s Casual Dress Code? The most relaxed of the dress codes, casual attire is comfortable clothing that you would wear around the house. That being said, although there is nothing formal about this dress code, your clothes should still be clean and presentable. What to Wear for a Casual Dress Code? With a focus on comfort, the men’s casual dress code is exactly how you imagine it to be—consider printed t-shirts, jeans, tracksuit pants, jumpers, hoodies and sneakers. In warmer weather, a t-shirt and shorts are perfectly suited to this, while in the cooler months, a hoodie and jeans will keep you warm and comfortable. What are Common Casual Events? Being a day-to-day outfit, a casual dress code applies to most of your everyday outings and occasions: Shopping Outdoor sports with friends Lounging at home Visiting friends informally That being said, the relaxed nature of this dress code is not suited to more formal gatherings and events. What is Men’s Smart Casual Dress Code? The next step above everyday casual, the men's smart casual dress code polishes your casual look with a few more formal pieces. The key to successful smart casual dressing is finding the perfect balance between looking neat, while not appearing overly casual or formal. What to Wear for a Smart Casual Dress Code? Whether you’re dressing down a formal look or dressing up a casual outfit, there are a few key pieces that can help form the basis of your smart casual ensemble. A shirt, long sleeve, short sleeve or a polo, is always a good starting point. Pair it with chinos, shorts or dark wash jeans and a sports jacket or knit for a neat look. Don’t be afraid to try bolder prints and patterns on your clothing when dressing for a smart casual event. What are Common Smart Casual Events? Smart casual is a popular dress code for many events with friends and family. This will likely be your go-to dress code for a range of organised informal occasions: Gatherings and parties with friends Dinners and lunches at restaurants Saturday night drinks at a bar Date night with that special someone What is Men’s Business Casual Dress Code? More formal than smart casual but less relaxed than your day-to-day business attire, men’s business casual is an increasingly popular dress code for many companies. The idea behind your business casual look is to slightly dress down your typical business look. What to Wear for a Business Casual Dress Code? Being based on the business dress code, a long sleeve shirt is a must. Typically, the prints and patterns can be slightly more brighter and fun, as long as they don’t detract from this neat look. Pressed trousers or chinos also pair well with dress shoes or boots for this look. Finish it off with a sports jacket. Although you should still tuck your shirt in, a tie is typically optional for a men’s business casual dress code. What are Common Business Casual Events? Typically, your workplace will specify if and when a business casual dress code will apply. That being said, common business casual events include: Casual Friday Afterwork drinks Client lunches or dinners Informal client events If your workplace hasn’t specified a dress code for the event, it’s better to dress on the smarter side. What is Men’s Business Dress Code? Your day-to-day careerwear, the business dress code is what you wear to your office. It’s important to wear the right clothes to leave a positive lasting impression, whether you are working with clients on those within the business. What to Wear for a Business Dress Code? While workplaces differ in what they require employees to wear, the men’s business dress code is typically seen as a business shirt, paired with a two-piece suit, a tie and dress shoes. This office-friendly, smart look is typically more reserved than business formal. Subtle stripes and checks are allowed, although many people prefer to stick to classic blues, whites, greys and browns when creating an outfit. What are Common Business Events? Since you will be wearing men’s business attire during the day in the office, any company event or meeting will likely require you to meet this dress code: Meetings with clients Meetings with managers and subordinates Company events and expos Job interviews What is Men’s Semi-Formal & Cocktail Dress Code? More formal than your business attire, men’s semi-formal and cocktail dress codes are reserved for special events and occasions. Both semi-formal and cocktail attire is seen are quite formal, however, there are some differences between the two. Semi-formal dressing is typically more reserved, with a focus on darker colours such as grey, black and blue. Cocktail on the other hand is still very formal, although it is more relaxed, allowing people to use more colour and prints in the outfit. What to Wear for a Semi-Formal & Cocktail Dress Code? Both of these dress codes require a suit, shirt, and dress shoes. Men’s semi-formal dressing is more kept, so select a lighter coloured shirt—such a white, or light blue—to complement your darker suit. On the other hand, you can select a more vibrant shirt or suit if you are going to a cocktail event. What are Common Semi-Formal & Cocktail Events? Exclusive and special, men’s cocktail and semi-formal dress codes are reserved for only the most special of events: Weddings Cocktail parties Formal celebrations Galas, shows and performances Whether you have just been invited to a cocktail wedding, drinks at a bar with friends or a walk in the park, it’s important to dress for the occasion. Dressing either too formally or too casually with leave a lasting impression for all the wrong reasons. Be sure to do your research on what to wear for each type of dress code before planning your outfit. Shop our full range of menswear at GAZMAN for everything you need for your next event