What to Wear for Formal Events & Occassions

Style Guide for galas, fundraisers, charity events, and holiday parties. No matter the event or special occasion, our guide will ensure you look your best.

Black Tie

Expect a sophisticated, polished atmosphere where guests arrive in their sharpest evening attire.

Man in a navy suit standing in front of a building with large windows.
Man in a black tuxedo sitting at a table with a blue wall and shelves in the background
Black Tie Events

What to Wear: A classic black tuxedo is always a good choice, but you can embrace color variations with a cream or navy tuxedo. Pair with a crisp white tuxedo shirt, a black bow or neck tie for a sharp, athletic-fit silhouette that is polished and event appropriate

Tips: Black patent leather or high-shine dress shoes complete the look. Keep accessories clean and minimal: cufflinks, a pocket square, and a slim belt (or no belt with side-tabs). Avoid colorful ties, loud socks, and anything overly trendy. Black Tie is about timeless refinement. Ensure your tux fits properly, especially through the shoulders and waist.

SHOP BLACK TIE

Formal Wear

Functions are refined but slightly more flexible than Black Tie. The look is polished, celebratory, and professional.

Man in a navy suit standing on a city street corner.
Formal Wear

What to Wear: A dark-colored stretch suit (navy, charcoal, grey or black) paired with a dress shirt is the safest bet. A tie is recommended, though you can choose subtle festive tones like deep burgundy or winter greens. This is the perfect setting for State & Liberty’s performance stretch suits that keep you comfortable from cocktail hour to the final toast.

Tips: Leather dress shoes keep the look sharp. Add a pocket square for a refined finish. Avoid overly bold novelty prints or mismatched separates that make the outfit feel too relaxed. A crisp white dress shirt always works, though subtle patterns or other solid colors are also great options.

SHOP SUITS

Semi Formal

Expect a blend of business-casual and polished evening wear with stylish settings and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Man in a gray sweater and dark pants standing outdoors near a building.
Semi Formal Wear

What to Wear: A tailored stretch blazer paired with dress pants or chinos creates a confident, put-together look without feeling overdressed. A button-down dress shirt works well, or swap it for a sweater, mock neck, or quarter zip for a more seasonal, modern take. Colors like navy, seasonal greens, charcoal, cream, and winter burgundy help bring in holiday energy while keeping things elevated.

Tips: Loafers, leather sneakers, or dress boots pair perfectly here. Just keep the footwear clean and intentional. Add a simple belt and, if you’re wearing a blazer, a pocket square for a touch of personality. Avoid hoodies, distressed denim, and overly loud patterns that feel more like a night out than a holiday gathering.

SHOP SEMI FORMAL

Cold Weather Layering

Our overcoats provide a winter layering for any formal wear and are designed in a modern, tailored athletic fit.

Learn More

Learn more about the different dress codes including black tie, formal, semi-formal, and dressy casual

Black Tie

Often times the black tie dress code for men is thought to be black tuxedo white tuxedo shirts only. As fashion standards evolve...

Cocktail

Cocktail attire for men is one of the most popular dress codes and is typically a step below black tie optional...

Semi Formal

One of the most common dress code requirements, but what exactly does this mean? With so many dress code phrases...

Smart & Dressy Casual

Smart casual dress code for men can mean a wide variety of clothing options, which makes it hard to narrow down the perfect outfit...

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