How to interpret the dress code of the invitation | Oscar Jacobson

Smoking is the second highest level of formality that can be found in Sweden after Frack / Evening dress (White Tie). With that being said, Smoking is still seen more as a party attire than a formal attire and traditionally it was only worn during the evening.

A tuxedo should be black or midnight blue (a white tuxedo jacket is only worn in tropical or extremely hot climates). The tuxedo jacket can be single- or double-breasted and the lapels should be covered in silk or satin. The tuxedo pants do not have belt loops or cuffs and have matching silk or satin stripes along the side seam of the pants

For a tuxedo, one wears a white shirt with a classic folded collar (not a tailcoat collar) and double cuffs. The shirt's chest can be pleated or in piqué, and one can choose whether to have loose buttons or a smooth button placket.

A black bow tie, preferably self-tied, is always mandatory for a tuxedo. The international name for the dress code Black Tie does not refer to a black tie, but only to a black bow tie.

On the feet, one wears thin black socks (preferably silk) and traditionally patent leather shoes. The most classic model is the opera pump with a bow over the toe, but an Oxford shoe in patent leather also works perfectly. For less formal dinner events, an Albert slipper in velvet can also work excellently.

The most common dress code one encounters today during parties, weddings, and baptisms is probably Dark Suit. In fact, it is a fairly new concept that previous generations referred to as "Blazer" but has now emerged to further clarify the level of formality and provide two different levels of a suit attire.

For a Dark Suit, one should wear a dark blue or dark gray suit made of wool. Avoid black suits, which are primarily associated with funerals, as well as suits made of cotton or linen, which have a more informal character. The suit jacket can be single- or double-breasted, and the trousers can be worn with or without cuffs.

When it comes to shirts, a white shirt with a single or double cuff is preferred, preferably with a traditional cutaway collar. For the dress code Dark Suit, a tie is always worn, preferably in a subtle color with a discreet pattern.

On the feet, black leather shoes are required.

The dress code "Blazer" historically referred to what we now call a "dark suit". The dress code still means a full suit, but now allows for a greater variety of shades in both the suit, shirt, and shoes. It does not refer to a sports coat or blazer when listed on an invitation.

The suit can be either dark or light depending on the situation, place, and season.

Ties are still recommended but the shirt's color can range from classic white to, for example, light blue or pink.

In the shoe aisle, there is room to wear both black and brown leather shoes in models such as oxfords or loafers.

If the hosts of the event prefer a more relaxed dress code than a suit, they can write Smart casual to avoid any misunderstanding, as the dress code Blazer, as mentioned earlier, still refers to a full suit.

Smart casual is not a specific dress code but refers, if written out, to a classic jacket in any color with a contrasting pair of pants made of wool, cotton, or linen depending on the season (not jeans).

For this, it is advantageous to choose a shirt in any shade, and the tie is not mandatory here.

Shoes in black or brown leather or suede are excellent choices for the feet.

Dress codes like Summer Fine are becoming increasingly common, which is problematic because there is no clear definition of what the dress code actually refers to. As with most things regarding etiquette, common sense goes a long way, and Summer Fine can indicate that you should make an effort and dress according to the season without a specific requirement for a suit or jacket, for example. You can of course still choose a relaxed linen suit, but also a shirt and dress pants. Since the expression Summer Fine can mean very different things depending on who you ask, this type of dress code also risks creating a wide range of formality among guests' attire. If you are unsure, we always recommend contacting the host and asking for clarification.

In conclusion, we want to say that regardless of the dress code, one should always show respect for the hosts and the other guests by dressing according to the invitation to the best of their ability. Prioritizing what one may find most practical or comfortable is not a sign of good style, but don't forget that the biggest fashion faux pas you can make is to comment on someone else's attire at the party.