What to Wear in Cocktail Attire for Men If you truly have no idea what to wear (or how to wear it), the old standby navy, gray, or black suit with a white dress shirt and dress shoes is a no-brainer
Common placket constructions Grown-on (self) placket: placket is folded from the front panel Separate placket: a separate strip is attached to the front edge Facing + button extension: cleaner inside, more steps and cost Hidden placket: premium look, but higher risk and higher cost How I pick quickly Light fabric (viscose, challis): separate placket + light fusing Medium fabric (poplin, crepe): grown-on placket + stable fusing Heavy fabric (twill, denim): separate placket, reduce bulk, adjust SPI My cost vs stability table How do I prevent gaping and button pull at the bust
Always wearable, easy, and on trend without looking as though youre trying very hard
Easy fit dress with a ruffle collar, front button placket, long sleeves with elastic cuffs, and a tall hem ruffle
EXPERT TIPDavid Reeves is a Bespoke Tailor and the Founder of Reeves: Modern English Tailoring, based in New York City
