How to dress for a business lunch or dinner: Men’s guide
Going to a business lunch or dinner is an excellent opportunity to show confidence and good taste in the way you dress. The event requires finding a balance between sophistication, comfort and authenticity. It is not just a case of dressing well but also projecting confidence and professionalism. The key lies in mastering the art of “business casual” and adapting it according to the context and the atmosphere of the event.
In this guide, we give you tips to hit the mark with your outfit at any corporate lunch or dinner, from the most minimalist to the most contemporary looks. We will also show you how to combine your boots with style and we suggest some winning outfits for each situation.
How to dress for a business lunch: Advice for men
When going to a business lunch, the dress code tends to be less formal than for a dinner, but it is still essential to project a professional and well-groomed image.
- Find out about the type of event. Before choosing what to wear, ensure that you know if the meal is in a formal or more relaxed environment.
- Pay attention to cleanliness and personal hygiene. An impeccable look also depends on details such as hairstyle, a well-groomed beard and wearing a suitable perfume.
- Choose garments that reflect professionalism. Although the event is a meal, you should stick to your corporate image.
- Opt for neutral and balanced colours. Simple tones of navy blue, grey or beige portray elegance without being too showy.
- Avoid excessive use of accessories. A classic watch and a well-matched belt should be enough.
Men’s outfits for a business lunch
Let’s get to the practical part and apply these tips for men’s looks for a business lunch to your everyday routine.
1. Smart casual with a blazer
Some beige chinos, a blue fitted shirt and a grey blazer create the perfect look for a business lunch. This outfit offers a balance between formality and originality, portraying confidence without appearing excessively serious. The key is to choose good quality and well-structured garments that flatter your shape.
To accessorise, opt for dark brown leather boots that provide a touch of sophistication without sacrificing comfort. A matching leather belt, a watch with a leather strap and some classic design sunglasses would complete the look and ensure an impeccable and well-coordinated look.
2. Business style with jumper
Opt for navy blue formal trousers, a high-neck jumper in camel and a structured wool coat for a sophisticated and balanced look. This outfit is ideal for a business lunch that requires an elegant presence without the need for a formal suit. The high-neck jumper provides a modern and refined twist, while the wool coat provides elegance and warmth.
To accessorise this outfit, choose some black leather Chelsea boots to add a contemporary and stylised touch. In winter, a matching black leather belt and some leather gloves will boost the sophistication of this look. You could also include a discrete handkerchief in the coat to add a touch of refinement without being excessive.
3. Relaxed classic
If you prefer a more classic style, combine brown chinos with a white fitted shirt and a wool cardigan in neutral tones. This combination is perfect for projecting an elegant and well-groomed image without the need to wear an overly formal outfit. The softness of the cardigan provides a touch of comfort without decreasing the outfit’s sophistication.
Complement this look with some brown suede boots to add a refined and timeless touch. A leather belt in a similar tone to the boots will help to bring the outfit together, while a watch with a classic dial and a wool scarf in winter will add some refined details. If you want additional elegance, opt for a structured jacket in dark tones.
4. Modern and relaxed
Dark jeans with a check shirt and a long coat are the ideal combination for an informal lunch. The check shirt provides a casual but structured twist, while the long coat elevates the outfit with an air of sophistication. This look allows you to play with layers to adapt to the weather without sacrificing style.
To complete the outfit, black leather thick-soled boots will add personality and additional robustness. A dark leather belt will bring cohesion to the outfit, while a minimalist watch and some classic sunglasses could give it the final touch without overloading the look.
How to dress for a business dinner: Tips for men
Business dinners tend to have a more formal tone, particularly when they are events like Christmas or important celebrations. Here, elegance takes centre stage, but always with a personal touch.
- Identify the dress code. Some dinners demand etiquette, while others allow a casual business style.
- Opt for a balanced look. A full dinner suit is not necessary, but an elegant blazer or coat can make the difference.
- Shoes matter. Well-groomed quality footwear reinforces a sophisticated image.
- Pay attention to detail. Well-fitting clothes and quality textures will elevate your presence.
- Avoid looks that are too informal. Ripped jeans, sports T-shirts or trainers are not appropriate for a business dinner.
Men’s outfits for a business dinner
Now, let’s move on from theory to practice. Let’s look at some men’s looks that hit the mark for a business dinner.
1. Formal but with personality
A dark blue suit with a burgundy shirt is a safe bet for a business dinner that requires a certain level of formality without being too conventional. The burgundy shirt provides a twist with a different and sophisticated colour, while the dark blue suit has a classic elegance. For greater impact, you could opt for a fabric with a light texture or a discrete satin finish.
To complete this look, choose black leather Chelsea boots, a modern alternative to classic dress shoes that add a contemporary touch. A matching black leather belt, a watch with a minimalist dial and some subtle cufflinks will elevate the outfit, guaranteeing an impeccable presence at any elegant corporate event.
2. Sophisticated style
If you are looking for a more restrained look, choose full black with formal trousers, a black shirt and a long coat. This monochrome style not only stylises your shape but also portrays an image of sophistication and confidence. The fabrics play a key role in this outfit; opt for materials like wool, velvet or satin to give the look depth and elegance.
Complement it with matte black leather boots that reinforce the continuity of the outfit and add a contemporary touch. Accessories such as a minimalist watch, a fine leather belt and a discrete hand-held bag could provide additional refinement. If you are seeking a more eye-catching detail, a brooch on the lapel or a foulard in dark tones could elevate the style even further.
3. Casual chic
Formal grey trousers, a fine cashmere jumper and a blazer is a safe bet for a business dinner where a balance between sophistication and comfort are required. Apart from being warm and light, the cashmere jumper provides a refined touch without the rigidity of a formal shirt. The structure of the blazer complements the look with a discrete touch of contemporary elegance.
To complete the outfit, opt for tan split leather boots to add a distinctive and sophisticated touch without being too formal. A matching leather belt, a minimalist design watch and a light foulard would be the perfect accessories to reinforce an elegant style. If the weather requires it, a wool coat in dark tones could provide additional elegance without clashing with the outfit’s harmony.
4. Modern touch with a turtleneck jumper
High-neck jumpers in dark tones are the perfect choice with formal suits or trousers, providing a touch of contemporary elegance without sacrificing versatility. They are an excellent choice for those wanting a refined look without resorting to the traditional shirt and tie.
To complete the outfit, choose black or brown leather boots which will add sophistication and balance to your attire. If you are seeking additional refinement, add a high-quality leather belt and a structured coat in neutral tones. A watch with a minimalist design and some leather gloves would add the final touches for an impeccable and stylish finish.
