Dress Code Guide
Formal attire, made simple
When the invitation just says formal, a dark suit or a tuxedo both work. Here is how to get it right and rent the look.
What formal means
Formal is a slightly flexible dress code. A tuxedo is always safe, and a well-fitted dark suit with a tie also works, especially for daytime or less traditional events. The goal is polished and put together, not flashy.
When you will see it. You will see formal on weddings, award nights, and upscale dinners. Evening events lean toward a tuxedo; daytime events are fine in a dark suit.
What to wear, head to toe
Each piece links straight to the collection so you can rent or buy it.
A tuxedo for evening, or a dark suit jacket in black, navy, or charcoal for daytime.
Shop jacket
A white or very pale formal shirt.
Shop shirt
A bow tie with a tuxedo, or a classic long tie with a suit.
Shop neckwear
An optional vest adds polish and holds the look together.
Shop vest
Black polished lace-ups.
Shop shoes
A white or subtle pocket square for a finished touch.
Shop pocket squareDo
- Choose a tuxedo for evening events
- Keep colors dark and classic
- Make sure the fit is clean
- Add a vest or pocket square for polish
Skip
- Do not wear light or casual colors
- Do not skip the tie
- Do not wear casual shoes
- Do not over-accessorize
How renting works
Build your look online or with our fit team, and it ships to arrive about ten days before your event. Free shipping both ways, and size swaps are free. See how it works.
Formal questions, answered
Is formal the same as black tie?
Not quite. Black tie specifically means a tuxedo. Formal is a little more flexible, so a dark suit with a tie can also work, especially in the daytime.
Can I wear a navy suit for formal attire?
Yes. A well-fitted dark navy or charcoal suit is a solid formal choice, particularly for daytime or garden events.
Tuxedo or suit for a formal wedding?
For an evening formal wedding, a tuxedo is the safest choice. For a daytime formal wedding, a dark suit with a tie is perfectly appropriate.