What to Wear to an Engagement Party for Men

When you have multiple wedding occasions coming up, it’s good to start with the basics. A white tailored shirt, navy chinos and tailored jacket is a great starting place for your wardrobe. To finalise this look, pair back with clean tailored shoes and a dress belt for an easy engagement party or rehearsal look.

However, not every event calls for that exact level for formality. Some pre wedding parties will be more formal, while other require a truly sophisticated look. Let’s take a look into what to where to a engagement party for men based on the dress code and party location.

 

 

Smart Casual – Pub, backyard, beach

More couples are choosing casual events in the lead up to their big day. This may include a garden venue, beach setting, or even an event hosted in the function room of a restaurant or pub. A smart causal dress code is typically the go-to for these venues, so ensuring your outfit meets that fine balance of smarter clothing mixed with casual essentials is key. Luckily, dressing for a smart causal engagement party is up to you and your style.

An example outfit could consist of smart shorts or chinos, with a nice fitting button up shirt either patterned or plain. To finish your casual look pair back with a dress belt and dress shoes. A sports jacket or knit can also be added if it’s going to be a cooler day.

 

 

Cocktail – Winery, country club

The cocktail dress code is a very common request when attending an engagement party or other pre wedding event. Compared to other more ceremonial dress codes such as formal, black tie or white tie, a cocktail dress code is the perfect opportunity to wear a pop of colour and add flair to your outfit.

Usually held at an established venue, a cocktail dress code event will likely have you wearing a tailored shirt that is ironed and fits well, while also colour matching with the rest of your outfit, alongside a crisp pair of chinos and a sports jacket is a must. For example pinks, navy, and greys pair together easily, as well as greens, navy and tan. If you wish to keep it neutral, go for a navy chino, navy tailored jacket and a crisp white shirt. Wear leather shoes and belt, while usually putting on a tie for a pre wedding cocktail event is optional.

 

 

What if the dress code is not clear?

It might be difficult to know where to begin if the dress code is unclear on the invite. As a starting point, it’s good to settle with options that make you feel comfortable and confident. The easiest place to start is knowing where the engagement party is being hosted, as the venue will make it easier to pick your outfit and decide how dressed up you should be.

Seasonality will also help aid your outfit decision. If the event is hosted in a backyard or pub, try wearing chinos with a button-down shirt and belt, keep it casual and comfortable. A more formal party may be hosted at a country club or restaurant, for these venues wearing nice, fitted pants and a tailored jacket might be expected.

 

 

 

What not to wear to a pre wedding event?

While we now know exactly what to wear, here are some tips and tricks to avoiding any fashion mishaps for your next engagement party:

• Even if the event may be labelled as casual, do not attend your event wearing an unironed shirt
• Make sure your clothes and shoes are clean, tidy and your buttons are done up
• Don’t sacrifice comfort for style, you may find yourself sitting in a cool room or standing in the hot sun at your event
• Do some research into the weather prior to attending to make sure you are dressed appropriately and comfortably
• Don’t miss self-grooming, be sure to do a tidy up shave and brush your hair, it makes a big difference in how you present yourself

 

No matter the pre wedding event or engagement party you have coming up this season, GAZMAN has the smart casual options you need. Shop our new menswear arrivals today.