Wedding Guest Dress Codes, Decoded for Men
From black tie to beach, here is what each line on the invitation actually asks of you, planned the Via way: shoes first, then everything above them.
Sam Whitaker 9 min
Field Guides Editor · Field Guides
Sam Whitaker
Sam has packed for weddings in three time zones, interviews in July, and funerals on short notice. The Field Guides start where the occasion starts: what the day asks of you, from the shoes up.
8 guides by Sam
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What to Wear to a Job Interview in 2026
Dress one step above the room, start with polished shoes and a belt that matches, and you can stop thinking about clothes before you sit down.
Sam Whitaker 6 min
Business Casual Without the Khaki Default
Two pairs of shoes, trousers in any color but tan, and a top half that does the rest: a business casual week that doesn't look like everyone else's.
Sam Whitaker 5 min
Packing a Week in a Carry-On, Starting With Two Pairs of Shoes
Shoes take up the most space and make the most decisions, so pick two pairs first and let the rest of the bag follow.
Sam Whitaker 5 min
First-Date Outfits That Don't Look Like You Tried Too Hard
Dress like yourself on your best ordinary day, start with clean shoes, and let the venue set the ceiling. Nobody falls for a costume.
Sam Whitaker 7 min
Dressing for a Cold Commute, From the Boots Up
Warm feet first, thin layers second, a coat that stops wind third. Then change your shoes at your desk and nobody at work knows it was 18°F outside.
Sam Whitaker 7 min
What to Wear to a Funeral
A dark suit, black shoes polished the night before, and nothing anyone will remember. Plus what to do when you're short on time or don't own a suit.
Sam Whitaker 5 min
Dressing for 90-Degree Days Without Looking Sloppy
Open weaves, light colors, unlined shoes and a fit that skims instead of clings. Looking sharp in July is about fabric, not about wearing less.
Sam Whitaker 7 min