Dress code for the holidays

It’s time for the holidays, confraternization at work, meeting with friends, and many other events which make us wonder if we’re wearing the right outfit for the occasion. After all, for most of these events, there’s a special dress code to be followed for quite a simple reason: politeness. Yes, dressing accordingly is nothing more than being polite towards hosts and guests.

If we position our clothes on a timeline, we’ll soon realize a positive, important pattern: flexibility. We are currently able to dress according to our personal styles, work routines, weather, etc. A series of factors help us pick what we’ll be wearing during the day, and happy are the ones who can keep it comfy and elegant at the same time.

Maybe the most frequently asked question made by men regarding their closet is about when it’s okay to wear shorts, since sometimes even the most informal occasions don’t make that allowance. Well, let’s consider that, depending where you live or are, shorts are a must-have. You can, indeed, wear them informally. Feel free to wear them when the weather allows for christenings, birthday parties, lunches and other day-time events, work-related included. Combine them with a trendy shirt, opting for light colors or dynamic patterns. Belts also work well with social shorts, but remember that your shoes are the focus here. Pay attention to what you wear on your feet, mister.

Please, please, please forget the socks if you’re wearing shorts - unless we’re talking sneakers (even so, be discreet when picking socks, please). If that isn’t the case, go for moccasins or Birken sandals - especially if you’re by the sea.

If you’re going to an event which asks for trousers, follow the dress code. Jeans are good options, but only if it isn’t a too formal occasion. In such cases, opt for twill trousers, preferably of light colors, such as pastel shades. Linen and cotton are also good options, more sophisticated for warmer weather.

The controversial short-sleeved shirts are back, so wear them if you want. Now, for more formal events and parties, go for the slim version of them. Yes, suits can go into your list, especially those that come with a more modern color palette - light gray, indigo, and nude are all over the place these days, and you difficult go wrong with those.

Lastly, choose wisely, but freely. Just remember that dress codes exist to be considered, and off you go!