After 5 Attire for Men

Although perceptions about what clothing is appropriate when have shifted radically, with fashion "rules" becoming less stringent over time, it's still useful to know the acceptable after-5 attire for men. Some events still do warrant traditional dress, and fashion standards do tend to swing back, so it's good to be prepared.

Traditionally, after-5 attire is cocktail wear.

As five o'clock separates the afternoon from the evening, anything worn after that time must be appropriate for the hour, so, simply put, after-5 attire for men is usually cocktail wear. Traditionally, this was a suit that was darker than an afternoon suit and included a dressier tie. It remained distinct from evening wear, which is still much more akin to black tie.

Today, there are those who argue that a tie is optional, but most fashion mavens insist that to be properly dressed for a cocktail event, a tie should be worn. The suit's color may be dictated by the season. Whereas proper evening wear always dictates a dark suit, summer after-5 attire can, and should, be lighter. Likewise, the fabric is also seasonally appropriate, so that a silk or linen suit may be worn on a hot night. An autumn or winter event warrants a darker suit and heavier fabric, such as wool. While a more muted tie is appropriate, you can choose to wear something a bit more vibrant so long as it is obviously a quality piece, such as a vintage silk tie.

For a more casual event, such as a cocktail party in a private home or an indoor/outdoor wedding, you may forgo the suit and instead wear a jacket and tie, but in most instances, good trousers are still expected – no jeans, even clean and new black jeans. Of course, most places won't turn you away if that's how you're dressed, but if 'after-five attire' is specified, you should adhere to that dress code.

The idea of classic cocktail wear has increasingly fallen by the wayside with a more casual approach to fashion, as well as there being fewer cocktail parties. Unfortunately, the acceptance of more casual wear at most events means that latitude is commonly expected. For a man who lives almost exclusively in jeans and T-shirts, it can come as something of a shock if a plain black T-shirt and jeans are not acceptable. Traditional cocktail wear can be very dressy indeed, even including a handkerchief that matches one's tie, along with black shoes.

In most instances, you will either know the person extending the invitation or be able to call someone and get a clarification on the parameters of appropriate dress. Sometimes, you can dress more casually. However, you will almost never go wrong by erring on the side of being better dressed.

Any better clothing shop will be able to advise you on appropriate after-5 attire for men. If you are not someone who usually wears suits, they can guide you towards something that is readily adaptable for a number of occasions, so that it can be your go-to suit. A quality dress shirt and tie, well maintained, will last for years.

If you prefer to add a bit of character to your look, you may want to stay away from trends and instead opt for vintage styles. Your jacket should be of a classic cut, but vintage ties, handkerchiefs, cuff links and watches all give some flair. If you really like the old school look, you might even want to wear a dress hat. Thanks to TV shows like Mad Men, there is an increased interest in hats. With the costumers having immersed themselves in the period, you only need to watch one episode of the show to learn everything you need to know about vintage cocktail wear – most of which never goes out of style.

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