In 1983 I changed from a job that required a business suit to one more casual, and I’ve never looked back.

It is perfectly acceptable to ignore all the rules above. I have never been more formally dressed than a dark turtleneck and jacket in those 26 years, and usually it’s just a casual shirt & pants if the event is more formal than jeans & t-shirt.

Never had a problem at the several weddings, two funerals, or any other occasion. I find it hard to imagine anyone being so weird as to wear a tie on a date!

1. It has notch lapels; tuxedo jackets have peak or shawl lapels.
2. It has more than one button.

Black suits are neither fish nor fowl. Black is for formal dress (white tie; black tie; strollers; and various kinds of obsolete attire), while the lounge suit (what we now call a business suit) comes in various colors. A young man might successfully wear a black suit for a night on the town, but they are not appropriate for most settings.

Grandpa Ken,

May I suggest a white shirt, a light gray Macclesfield tie, and either a suit or a dark sports coat (or blazer) and striped slacks? The non-suit outfit is a nod to tradition which will look great, yet no one will think you’re dressing in costume. Please wear wool, not linen–you don’t want to be a rumpled, wrinkled mess, now do you? (You might find some more inspiration here: http://permanentstyle.blogspot.com/2008/05/contradiction-of-wedding-dress.html) The grandfather of the bridegroom should look classy and dignified for this special occasion, and I hope my suggestions help.

Someone made a point about dressing like yourself and being yourself on the first date. If that’s what you want to do, that fine… If being yourself is more important to you than tradition then you should do that. But I think the advice on this page is obviously intended for those who would like to look the part of a gentleman (hopefully as well as *being* one)

Tradition dictates that the first (dinner) date be snazzy and dressed up. Women tend to appreciate this as it lets them know you were interested enough to make the effort. They want to know they are a big deal! Secondly, it also shows that you know how to dress, which helps to show a well-rounded and knowledgeable character. It is not easy for most of us to learn how to match a jacket, shirt, slacks, shoes, and tie. Thirdly it also gives them a chance to dress up as well and live out there girlish fantasies. Most girls adore the opportunity to dress up from time to time. Finally, it will help to make the evening more memorable, important and special for both parties. So not only is dressing up for a first date a tradition (depending on the context), it is also sensible.

The biggest problem with that point of view is that it necessarily limits, possibly even eliminates, the chances of getting that someone you need. Nobody is going to want someone who isn’t willing to take the time to put on an air of presentability. If you’re not going to get “gussied up” for everyone you meet all the time, you’re likely not going to meet anybody.

Appearance is the first thing people notice, before that cough and bump in the hall. Everyone farts, and everyone stinks after working out. Did you really think you were the only one? Why sell yourself short to serve some misguided view of honesty? Because, that’s exactly what you’re doing. You’re selling yourself short.

Yeah, I know, we can date casually and all. just go out for coffee and talk with someone. But, let me tell you, i am not changing into nice clothes for coffee and the economy. What’s that? I should always look nice. Well guess what? I fart, and i stink after working out, and i am a real human with hair and flab. I’m too tired and to get all gussied up for everyone i meet all the time. And if she can’t realise that, well guess what, it wouldn’t have gone anywhere to begun with, because honesty in all things starts with the first cough and bump in the hall.

Sorry, late night and all. but honestly, the more ways I have to communicate, or IM, or message, the less talking I seem to do. Good Lord knows I need someone.

You used a really lousy picture for the tux. Never EVER should a tux have a notched collar. Those are reserved for suits and sportcoats. Traditionally, a tuxedo has either a peaked or shawl collar. I prefer a shawl collar myself, but both look great.

Hope I was a help!

Michael – You’re probably right; I’ve been out of the dating scene for some time now. But from what I remember the girls I dated always enjoyed dressing up a bit.

Johnny – This gap is real and we are working hard to fix it!

Adam – Sadly, I have seen the same thing.

Will – Absolutely right about the first date advice, it does depend on the situation.

Lee – Respect your opinion and see your point of view, but still feel if you can you want to dress your best for your date. Whether she knows it or not, she is making a decision about you very quickly; her early take on you will determine how the rest of the night goes. As for jackets; they are not all created equally. Go with a sporty pattern, casual style, and pair with jeans for a perfectly fine look.

James – Thanks for the additional info, and agree with the peak lapels on the Tux.

Ryan – You are correct, it is geared towards the dinner date. And unless a man’s name is Daniel Craig I would advice against wearing dress clothing when engaging in vigorous activities.

Frdindenver – Good eye, the gentleman in the photo should not have his bottom button buttoned. On a two-button jacket, only button the top. On a three-button jacket, only the top two should ever be buttoned, with the top button optional for a more casual look.

Best,

Antonio

What’s correct?

Thanks,

Art Gonzalez
Quantum Knights