How to Prepare for a Formal Event: The Complete Guide for Men Who Want to Impress

f you’ve received an invitation to a wedding, graduation, award ceremony, or another important social event and are thinking, “What should I wear?”, don’t worry — you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll show you how to prepare for a formal event in a practical way, so you can arrive confident, well-dressed, and leave a lasting impression. From attire to personal grooming, everything counts when it comes to men’s elegance. Let’s get started!

Choosing the Right Attire

Understand the Dress Code

The first step is to carefully read the invitation. It usually indicates the dress code that should be followed. The most common ones are:

Black Tie

Social / Full Dress Code

Smart Casual

Full Tuxedo, Bow Tie

Suit + Tie

Blazer, Dress Pants or Chinos, Tie Optional

How to Choose Between a Tuxedo, Suit, or Blazer

• Tuxedo → Evening weddings, award ceremonies, and gala events.

• Suit → Weddings, graduations, important meetings.

• Blazer with Dress Pants → Elegant dinners, company parties.

Invest in quality pieces and, if possible, take the suit to a tailor for adjustments — the perfect fit is what separates the stylish man from the "just okay."

Classic Color Combinations

Don’t complicate it:

• Black → Always elegant.

• Navy blue → Versatile and modern.

• Gray → Subtle and sophisticated.

Avoid bold colors at formal events unless the dress code allows for it.

Accessories That Make a Difference

Tie, Bow Tie, or Nothing?

• Black tie → Bow tie.

• Formal suit → Classic tie.

• Smart casual → No tie, or just a pocket square.

How to Choose the Right Shoes

Opt for dress shoes such as:

Oxford

Derby

monk strap

Personal Grooming Before the Event

Hair:

Cut or style on the day
If you’re cutting your hair, do it one or two days before. On the day of the event, style it with minimal product (gel, pomade, or wax), avoiding excess.

Beard Shaved or Well-Groomed
Don’t go with a scruffy beard. Choose between shaving or trimming it well, using balm or oil for a clean finish.

Hydrated and Clean Skin

Wash your face with a specific face cleanser and use a moisturizer. This improves your appearance and helps minimize oiliness throughout the event.

Clean Nails and Well-Groomed Hands
No dry hands or dirty nails — a quick application of hand cream before you head out makes all the difference.

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Conclusion

Being prepared for a formal event isn’t just about clothes — it’s about paying attention to the details. From your outfit and accessories to personal grooming and posture, everything contributes to conveying an elegant and confident image.

Prepare ahead of time, try on the complete look before the event, and enjoy the moment with confidence.