subject: Formal Attire for any Occasion [print this page] Wearing something formal and elegant is something every gentleman should try to do as often as he can no matter what the time or place. Unless you're overdressing, there's no reason why you shouldn't; there's nothing wrong with looking formal, since looking formal means you're looking good unless, as said before, you're overdressing.
Overdressing can take on a variety of shapes and forms you may be at a party wearing a bow tie, sticking out like a sore thumb. Or even more simply, you could just be showing up to work a little too spiffy. While one of these situations makes you feel very uncomfortable, while the other might not matter that much at all, the sentiments are exactly the same no one wants to overdress, ever.
And that's why so many men go out of their way to under dress whenever possible but doing so can have drastic effects. If you're never well-dressed, people will not only assume things, they'll even avoid you like the plague at certain parties, gatherings, and occasions. And even before that, it's hard to deal with all the looks you'll get for not dressing up so dressing formally is a necessity. Bow ties , for instance, should be worn to weddings, receptions, and especially formal occasions, since you'll never see anyone wearing a bow tie during the day. It's a good idea to have a bow tie in your wardrobe, however, since you'll never know what surprise occasions may come up.
Or better yet, it's a good idea to have a pre-matched suit (bow tie and all) waiting in your wardrobe for you. This way, you'll be able to go to any event or occasion on short notice, and you won't have to worry if something doesn't match before you go. If you're not used to dressing up, it's probably your best option, even though it's something that many people fail to do or even realize.
Dressing formal is as much about matching what you're wearing as it's about wearing it with style. As long as you're wearing something that matches, you've got half of the occasion right, but you'll have to carry yourself with a style that matches what you're wearing. If you can do that, you'll be able to pull off formal attire for any occasion, and not only will you stick out at parties; you'll stand out as a snappy dresser without any effort.
