For Groomsman

Men's Wardrobe Essentials for Formal or Semi Formal Occasion -

Men's Wardrobe Essentials for Formal or Semi Formal Occasions. One of several articles about building a basic wardrobe; this article focuses on six key items which is necessary for men's formal or semi formal occasions such as an interview, a wedding, or a date.



A Suit
Every man needs at least one well tailored suit for special occasions that arise, even if it's just once a year. And trust, you will be glad to have one because it will save you from feeling humiliated and cheap when everyone else is suited up at some event except you.

Choose a dark suit, preferably black or dark gray and be sure to make it single-breasted. Choose a medium weight wool since it's long lasting, holds it's shape well and is multi-seasonal. Steer away from a trendy cut. Buy a classic style that you will able to wear for years to come. This way you will only need to change your shirt and tie to keep your look up-to-date.



Slacks
Another essential item is a good pair of dress slacks, again preferably in a dark color like black or navy. They will come in handy when you are going to an event that doesn’t require a suit, but does require something nicer than khakis or jeans. Again, choose a medium weight wool since it long lasting, holds it shape well and is multi-seasonal.



A White Dress Shirt

A white dress shirt is a must-have for suits but also for dressier pants. White shirts never go out of style and they look great with just about anything. It can be worn under a dark sweater with just the collar and cuffs showing--a classic look reminiscent of Cary Grant and other 1940s Hollywood screen gems.



Several Ties

Ties are wardrobe essentials because not only do they beg to be worn with a suit, but they can be worn under a sweater or simply with a shirt. It is important to have a variety of ties to coordinate with other items in your wardrobe or just to match your mood. You should always purchase at least one new tie per year since tie styles change more often than any other men’s fashion item.

If you wear suits often, you will probably need to have many ties in your collection. If this is the case, buy ties every season. That way you will be able to have fun with more unusual colors and patterns that match the season.



Black Shoes and Belt
One of the biggest fashion sins is to not match the color of your belt with that of your shoes. Wearing black shoes and a black belt is a fashion fundamental and will serve you on many occasions whether casual or formal. If you have a limited wardrobe budget, at least have one pair of black leather shoes and a black leather belt on hand.



Depending on how often you wear them, a good pair of shoes will last a long while if you take good care of them and a belt will likely last you for many years. And please don’t spoil your look by wearing odd colored socks. Buy a couple pairs of black socks, preferably wool since they retain their color and shape longer than cotton.


By Daniel Billet

We remain with best regards,
E-tailor at www.mycustomtailor.com

Wedding Guest Attire

What to Wear to a Wedding -


Wedding guest style for her



Informal Daytime: Short dress or suit (business attire OK for morning weddings)

Informal Evening: Cocktail dress

Semi-Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit

Semi-formal Evening: Cocktail dress

Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit. Hats and gloves optional.

Formal Evening or Black-Tie: Long or dressy short cocktail (beading, glam accessories, wrap)

Ultra-formal or White Tie: Long gown, extra glitz (furs, diamonds, etc.)

Do's and Don'ts for Her



Don't wear white because it competes with the bride. There are plenty of other colors available.

Don't wear black or sequins during the daytime.

Don't worry about wearing the same colors as the bridesmaids or mothers. You can't possibly coordinate with everyone in the wedding party.

Do wear something feminine and appropriate, out of respect for your hosts. Clubwear, overtly sexy clothing (strapless, see-through, etc) doesn't belong at a wedding.If you have to ask if it's appropriate, it probably isn't.

Don't wear opera-length gloves (to top of arm) with anything but sleeveless or strapless gowns.



Do take off gloves to eat or drink.

Do use good judgment if the invitation doesn't specify the formality of the event. A pastel suit or soft floral dress for daytime or a little black dress for evening (after 6 p.m.) will take you almost anywhere.

Wedding Style for him



Informal Daytime: Dress shirt and pants, preferably a sports jacket.

Informal Evening: Suit

Semi-Formal Daytime: Suit

Semi-Formal Evening: Dark suit

Formal Daytime: Dark suit and tie

Formal Evening: Tuxedo (if invitation states "black tie") or dark suits if women wear short dresses.

Ultra-formal Evening or White Tie: White tie, cummerbund, vest and shirt.

Do's and Don'ts for Him



Don't try to get cute with a tuxedo. A black tux with white shirt and black bow tie is the best way to go. If "Creative Black Tie" or "Texas Formal" or some sort of other vague formal description is used, then going with a tux and black shirt, no tie, might be acceptable. Also, trendier cities like Los Angeles and New York might be more accepting of breaking with tradition.

Do wear a dark suit, with a tie if the wedding is after 6 PM, and doesn't say "Black Tie."

Don't wear a tuxedo during the day time, regardless of the formality of the event.

Do use good judgment if the invitation doesn't specify the formality of the event. A dark suit and conservative tie will take you just about anywhere.

By Cynthia Nellis

We remain with best regards,
Yours E-tailor at www.mycustomtailor.com