By Samantha Critchell
AP Fashion Writer
You might think men have it easy when it comes to choosing party attire: It’s either a suit and tie, or jeans and a casual shirt.
Except neither are the best choice for an at-home holiday party, says Adam Glassman, creative director at O: The Oprah Magazine.
“Only wear a suit if you want to–you don’t have to,” he says. And the tie is optional too.
“If you’re doing a tie, make sure it’s not the one you wore to the office. Try some shine, there are silver woven ties or even a black tie. No repp stripe.”
But while you don’t want to be overdressed, underdressed is probably a worse offense. “You want to seem like you’ve made a little effort, but not by stepping entirely out of your comfort zone,” Glassman says.
Take a cue from the hosts and from the time of day.
For any afternoon event, a blazer or cardigan sweater–even over jeans and a turtleneck sweater–is often the most fail-safe look. Anything in the evening gets a jacket and button-down shirt, he says.
Images courtesy of the Fashion Spot forums.
