November is here, the snow is flying, and it’s time to start thinking about what to wear to all the holiday parties you have coming up. Not sure what to wear to that charity gala or work Christmas party? Worried about making a good impression? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
Plan in advance
Before choosing what to wear, you need to consider how much time you’ve got before the event.
Tailoring for sport jackets can take a week, as well as orders for formal attire. Custom orders can take 5 weeks to arrive. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get your outfit and allow for any final adjustments.
Don’t forget to consider the shoes, either. They make the outfit.
Look dashing at any holiday party
Formal gala
We love a formal holiday gala. It’s one of a few times each year you get to dress up, so take the opportunity to really do it right.
What to wear: Keep it classy. Go with a black or navy tuxedo, white formal shirt, white pocket square, black bow tie, and glossy black shoes.
Classy consideration: Show up with blank cheques for all of your generous donations. If there’s a silent auction, play your cards close to your chest to walk away with what you really want.
Dinner party
A dinner party with friends or family gives you the opportunity to have a little more fun. You can dress up while still letting your personality shine.
What to wear: Show off a bit with a cool but casual look. Choose a flashy sport coat worn with an open collar sport shirt, nice dark jeans and slick brown wingtip shoes.
Classy consideration: Show up with a nice bottle of wine for the host (and maybe a second bottle for yourself).
Office holiday bash
The office party is a chance for you to connect with your colleagues in a more casual setting, but you should still look work appropriate.
What to wear: Stick to the classics. Choose a navy or grey suit, a roll neck sweater and brown cap toe shoes.
Classy consideration: Show up with a good bottle of a scotch and two cigars. Break out the cigars near the end of the night with the youngest addition to your company to help them feel like they are one of the team.
Prepare for the weather
Having proper outerwear will allow you to walk into the party comfortable and confident.
If the weather is rough the night of the party, bring some Swims with you to protect your shoes and keep you from tracking snow and slush all over the place when you walk in. Plus, everyone hates wet socks.
Don’t forget to wear a proper overcoat. We see far too many men shivering in the cold wearing just a suit, or covering their great outfit up with the outdated winter jacket they wear to shovel snow in.
More questions about how to dress for your next event?
Check out our Ladder of Formality to make sure you’re always looking your best, or just pop in, and our team can guide you in the right direction.
