6 Common Fashion Mistakes Men Make with Formal Wear

Clothes have long been recognized as making the man, creating a lasting impression, especially in formal settings. However, when it comes to formal wear, men often make fashion mistakes that can detract from their overall appearance. In this article, you’ll discover the fashion missteps to avoid when dressing formally to ensure you make the best possible impression.

1. Not Tucking Shirt In Pants: Allowing the shirt to hang straight outside the pants creates a more casual look, which is seldom appropriate for formal occasions. In formal evening wear, the shirt should always be neatly tucked in.
2. Open Too Many Buttons in the Shirt: Opening too many buttons on a shirt in the quest for comfort can lead to an overly casual appearance. It’s advisable not to undo more than one or two buttons on a formal occasion to maintain a polished and neat look.
3. Visible Undershirt: While an undershirt can help conceal sweat stains, it’s crucial to ensure that the collar of the undershirt remains hidden. Visible undershirt collars create horizontal lines that disrupt body proportions, making the overall outfit appear inconsistent.
4. Not Considering Physique When Choosing a Tie: When selecting a tie, it’s not just about the width but also about considering body type. The width of the tie should correspond to the individual’s physique – wider for broader individuals and vice versa. Incorrect tie dimensions can disrupt body proportions.
5. Incorrect Jacket Buttoning: Knowing which buttons to fasten on a jacket is often a point of confusion. For a classic 2-button jacket, the top button should always be fastened, while the bottom one remains undone. In a 3-button jacket, the bottom button stays undone, the middle one is closed, and the top one is optional.
6. Not Wearing Socks: Socks are a crucial accessory, especially with dress shoes. With the exception of sandals and flip-flops, socks should be worn with all other types of shoes. Black socks that cover the skin are generally recommended, even if the pants ride up slightly when sitting. Besides providing comfort, socks also prevent the development of an unpleasant odor during extended events.