Holiday party dress codes can be unclear, so the invitation is a useful starting point. Men’s Wearhouse recommends matching an outfit to the event and building around versatile pieces that can be worn beyond the holidays.
For an office gathering, a sport coat over a dress shirt, paired with chinos and leather shoes, is a business-casual option. A merino sweater layered over a collared shirt and dark trousers can work for family dinners and more relaxed office parties. A sport coat can make that combination more polished.
Cocktail attire generally calls for a dark suit, dress shirt and leather dress shoes. A tie is optional, but can be a sensible choice when the formality is uncertain. Navy or charcoal suits are presented as reliable options; a patterned tie or pocket square can add a seasonal touch. For colder evenings, a wool overcoat and scarf can complement the dressier outfit.
When an invitation says “festive attire,” the article says that usually means cocktail-party clothing with a seasonal detail, citing the Emily Post Institute’s dress-code guide. “Festive casual” is more relaxed and can include dark jeans, sweaters and seasonal colors. If the dress code is vague, the venue and host can help guide the choice.
A fine-knit merino sweater is described as suitable for many family dinners, casual New Year’s gatherings and office parties, especially with a collared shirt and tailored trousers. A quarter-zip offers a sportier option for more casual events. For a casual get-together, dark jeans, a quarter-zip and clean leather sneakers can work; sneakers with a suit are best reserved for less formal occasions. Leather dress shoes are the safer choice for cocktail events and more traditional celebrations.
Men’s Wearhouse says its Merino Shop carries crewnecks and other merino sweater styles that can be worn alone or layered under a jacket. The article also suggests a sport coat with dress trousers as an alternative for dressing up without wearing a matching suit.
Sources: Mashable.