It’s the holiday season, and the Christmas party invites are coming in. However, if you’re like most men, figuring out what to wear to each one can be a crapshoot. What if you show up in a reindeer sweater when everyone else is in blue velvet blazers?
Not a great look. You want to command attention, not look like one of Santa’s little helpers.
Navigating holiday dress codes is a pain in the ass, but it pays to get it right. You only get one chance to make a first impression, and your Christmas party attire says it all before you even open your mouth.
From mastering casual cool to acing black tie, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you crack the dress code, help you choose the right Christmas party look — and then elevate it with your own personal style.
Let’s get started.
Don’t know the Christmas outfit dress code?
Don’t know the dress code? We got you. Start by figuring out what kind of party it is. Sometimes, the invite will let you know the dress code. If not, try asking a friend who is going or looking up the host on Facebook or Instagram to see what people wore at past parties.
If those don’t work, feel free to contact the host — they want everyone to have a good time, so they’ll probably let you know what to wear.
As a last resort, err on the side of going formal. It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. That doesn’t mean wearing a tux. If you’re unsure of the dress code, go with a blazer, dress shirt, and tie — you can always remove the blazer and tie if the event is more casual.
Well, hello Mr. Fancypants: The formal (black tie) party
- What it means: The most formal dress code, reserved for elegant and sophisticated events.
- Type of parties: High-profile banquets, charity galas, awards ceremonies, or exclusive parties.
- What to expect: Champagne, speeches, deadpan asking for your martini shaken, not stirred.
- Look for this on the invite: “Black tie,” “Black tie optional,” "Formal attire."
- Style icons: James Bond, Bruce Wayne.
What to wear
Black tie parties are all about respect for the event — while still making a statement. Go for a sophisticated, refined look with signature details that set you apart from the crowd.
Jacket and shirt
Tuxedo jackets or dinner jackets are the rule here. Choose classic black with satin or grosgrain lapels or a velvet jacket in midnight blue or dark green.
The same goes for shirts. The classic choice is a crisp white shirt with French cuffs. Depending on the event, you may be able to wear a black roll-neck sweater. But err on the side of caution. It may be too informal for some events. If you’re not totally familiar with the event, go with the more formal look.
Pants
Again, the classic look is matching tuxedo trousers with a satin or grosgrain stripe down the side seam. You can also wear dark wool dress pants in a slim, tapered cut, but make sure the fit is impeccable.
Shoes
Put on your shiny black patent leather oxfords. Make sure they’re pristine and well-polished.
Accessories
Black tie doesn't have to be boring. Elevate the classic look with accessories that reflect your unique style. But keep it subtle. A pocket square in deep red or forest green, a bow tie with a subtle jacquard pattern, or holiday-themed cufflinks are all subtle ways to show off your style and make the look your own.
Pro tips
- Fit is essential: Your tux should fit perfectly. Schedule a fitting with your tailor at least two weeks before the event.
- Don’t show off: Black tie is about timeless elegance. Focus on the details and let your style speak for itself.
Jacket required: The semi-formal party
- What it means: Semi-formal sits between formal and casual. Think suit and tie.
- Type of parties: Corporate holiday parties, Christmas dinner parties, or client parties.
- What to expect: Canapés, small talk, and cocktails.
- Look for this on the invite: "Semi-formal," "After five," "Business attire."
- Style icons: George Clooney, Idris Elba.
What to wear
The classic “jacket and tie” look, semi-formal is your chance to showcase your personal style while maintaining a polished appearance.
Jacket and shirt
A navy or charcoal pinstripe suit is a go-to choice for a business party. Wear a black suit if the occasion calls for a more formal and dressy look. Consider neutral colors like beige or brown or opt for a tweed or dark-colored blazer if it's more dressed down.
Combine with a dress shirt or sweater — a light blue or pink dress shirt adds a touch of color for a daytime party. Try classic white or darker colors for evening events.
Pants
If you’re wearing a suit, you’re already good for trousers. Pair a blazer with charcoal or navy dress pants or dark jeans. Make sure your trousers fit well and have a slight break at the ankle.
Shoes
For a more formal event, consider dress shoes: oxfords or wingtips in black or dark brown. For a more relaxed vibe, consider loafers or Chelsea boots.
Accessories
Elevate your look with the right finishing touches. If you’re wearing a navy suit, wear a burgundy tie. A dark green tie can contrast nicely with a gray or black suit. For an understated festive touch, try a tie with a subtle holiday pattern, like snowflakes or reindeer. Add a sleek watch, pocket square, and cufflinks to complete the look.
Pro tips
- Make a statement: Go bold with a striking blazer or colorful shirt to stand out from the crowd. Keep the rest of your outfit simple and understated to let your signature piece shine.
- Layer your look: Layering adds depth and sophistication to your outfit. Wear a vest under your blazer or a cardigan over a dress shirt for a striking look.
Yippee Ki‐Yay: The business casual Christmas party
- What it means: The go-to dress code for office parties and less formal gatherings, business casual is all about looking presentable and professional while feeling comfortable and relaxed.
- Type of parties: Office Christmas parties, networking events, company dinners, or casual get-togethers with colleagues.
- What to expect: Shop talk, Secret Santa, and bustin’ moves to What is Love?
- Look for this on the invite: "Business casual," "Dressy casual."
- Style icons: Dwayne Johnson, Jeff Goldblum.
What to wear
Most Christmas parties you get invited to will be business casual. Mastering this style is all about looking put-together and approachable without being stuffy or boring. It’s the perfect excuse to ditch the tie but keep the style.
Top
Button-down shirts are the go-to for business casual. Leave the plain white or light blue at home and pick something more seasonal — consider rich colors like deep plum, dark green, or burgundy. Dress things up by throwing on a merino or cashmere V-neck sweater and a soft blazer.
Roll-neck or turtleneck sweaters are stylish, modern alternatives to button-downs. Wear them solo with dark pants or layer under a blazer or sleek leather jacket for a sophisticated, comfortable look.
Pants
When it comes to pants, you’ve got lots of options. Slim or straight-fit navy, gray, or olive green chinos or dark denim are always a safe bet for business casual. They can easily be dressed up with a blazer and dress shirt or paired with a sweater and loafers for a relaxed, sophisticated style.
For a more classic look, go with corduroy trousers or dark wool dress pants. But tech pants are the go-to if you’re looking for something with a more modern edge. Think along the lines of the Jack Archer Jetsetter Tech pants — a pair in charcoal gray or deep blue is the perfect way to take business casual to the next level.
Shoes
Classic business casual shoes include black or brown loafers, oxfords, or brogues. To take things up a notch (or if you expect bad weather), go with Chelsea boots or chukka boots.
Accessories
With business casual, go subtle with accessories. A stylish watch, belt, or colorful socks can add character to your outfit without drawing too much attention.
Pro tips
- Comfort is vital: You’ll be mingling and dancing (and maybe crawling through the ductwork), so make sure your outfit allows you to move freely while still looking good.
- Don’t go overboard: Stay professional. Subtle holiday touches, like a deep red shirt or sweater or even a Santa hat, are okay. Ugly sweaters or flashing Rudolph noses are not.
Sweater weather: The casual party
- What it means: The most relaxed dress code. Think chill, laid-back styles.
- Type of parties: Casual get-togethers with friends and family or low-key celebrations.
- What to expect: Eggnog, fireplaces, and mistletoe.
- Look for this on the invite: "Casual," "Come as you are," "BYOB."
- Style icons: The cast of Friends, Ryan Reynolds.
What to wear
Even in casual settings, putting effort into your appearance shows respect for your host. Aim to look presentable and feel comfortable while still expressing your personal style.
Top
A classic button-down shirt always works well for casual parties. Go with a dark, festive color or a subtle holiday pattern. A sweater is the way to go for a more relaxed and comfy vibe. Think roll-necks, turtlenecks, and textured knits (cable knit or Aran) with plaid or Fair Isle patterns in festive colors. For a more sophisticated statement, layer a collared shirt with a v-neck sweater, or dress down the same look by pairing a black long sleeve tee with a shawl collar blazer.
Cover up with a leather jacket, overcoat, bomber jacket, or shearling coat in gray, black, or neutral tones.
Pants
A nice pair of unfaded jeans in deep indigo or black are perfect for casual Christmas parties. Make sure they look sharp — no frayed cuffs or torn jeans, please. Dress things up with tech pants like Jack Archer Jetsetter Slim Fit in Space Black.
Shoes
Throw on a nice pair of boots or loafers, or even bust out your red Chuck Taylors — just be ready to show off your moves on the dance floor, too.
Accessories
A scarf can complete your casual Christmas outfit. You can choose a neutral to match your jacket and top or a bright and bold one — both work equally well here.
Pro tips
- Layer for comfort: There may be dancing — or impromptu snowball fights. Be prepared for both by layering strategically. A base layer, a mid-layer like a vest or cardigan, and a jacket let you stay comfortable.
- Party-proof your outfit: You’ll be moving around a lot. Choose stain-resistant fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily, like wool blends or performance fabrics, so you can look sharp from The First Noel to last call.
How to handle unclear dress codes and theme parties
So, you’ve got an invite that says “cocktail casual,” “festive,” or even worse, “come as your favorite Christmas carol.” What do these even mean?
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Here’s how to decode these invites.
Cocktail (not the Tom Cruise movie)
- What it means: Cocktail is similar to semi-formal but offers more opportunity to incorporate personal style.
- Look for this on the invite: “Cocktail attire,” “Dressy casual.”
- What to wear: A blazer or sports coat with a dark shirt or roll-neck sweater is a safe bet. For pants, go with dark jeans or wool trousers.
- Pro tip: Do your research. This dress code can be challenging. One good trick is looking up past parties on Instagram to see what people were wearing.
Festive dress code (red and green tie, yes. Mistletoe boxers…maybe.)
- What it means: Festive is a riff on semi-formal or business casual that includes “festive” touches like colors or patterns.
- Look for this on the invite: “Festive attire,” “Holiday attire,” “Christmas theme.”
- What to wear: Wear an outfit that incorporates festive colors (red, green, gold, and silver) or patterns.
- Pro tip: Be subtle. You want to look Christmas-y, not like a Christmas tree. For example, you could wear a dark green shirt with a burgundy tie and a subtle gold reindeer pattern.
* Note: To avoid embarrassment, check that the invite means “Christmas theme,” aka festive dress code, and not “Christmas theme party” (see below).
Holiday theme parties (reindeer noses mandatory)
- What it means: Parties with a “fun” theme like ugly Christmas sweaters or “dress as your favorite Christmas movie star.”
- Look for this on the invite: A description of the theme (if you’re lucky!). Sometimes, it will be obvious, like “Ugly Sweater Party” or “Die Hard Party”) but other times, it might be more cryptic. When in doubt, reach out to the host to ask what to wear.
- What to wear: Dust off your ugliest Christmas sweater or channel your inner Buddy the Elf. Embrace the theme with a fun costume, but keep it classy and comfortable so you can focus on enjoying the party — not worrying if your reindeer antlers will fall into the punch.
- Pro tip: Own it! Don’t just wear the costume — embrace it! Get into the spirit of the theme and have a blast at the party.
Now, enjoy the party!
Now that you know how to navigate holiday dress codes and create the perfect Christmas party outfit, you’re on your way.
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