WHEN TUCKING-IN ISN’T DRESSY ENOUGH

Being out and about almost every week from launches to gallery openings, soirees to galas, every man should have the right outfit ready in his closet.

Unfortunately, in a country where most men think tucking ones shirt is considered dressy and formal wear means wearing your favorite pleated trousers 2 size too big paired with a boxy plaid shirt to a wedding – something really has to be done!

And oh, you don’t want to be snapped underdressed by a photographer at a gala.

I have come up with five (5) easy invitation translators for you to keep in mind in case you get one in the mail.

WHAT IS SAYS AND WHAT IT REALLY MEANS

Black Tie. Enough said.

The alternative black tie. Black tie with a twist – sub out your standard tuxedo jacket with a velvet smoking jacket (though not really applicable in the tropics, bonus points if it’s in deep red, dark blue or bottle green.)

Cocktail attire. A jacket, a tie, and dark trousers or even dark jeans. A nice bow can replace your tie, but everything should remain dressy.  Also best paired with a crisp white dress shirt.

Come as you are. Throw on a navy or khaki unlined blazer and if you’re the only one wearing one when you get to the party, take it off and roll up your sleeves. Can’t go wrong here.

Business casual. Dress as you would for standard day at the office unless you work for a call center, in which case, step it up a notch.

Still clueless? You can always skip the party and hit the sack at 10.

(All photos from Esquire)