ALPHA MALE: Handling Spring Events + Other Challenges

ALPHA MALE: Handling Spring Events + Other Challenges

Spring is upon us, and as a clothier, I notice two things; people are happier and countless clients come to us in a pinch seeking clothing for an upcoming fundraiser or charity event.  There must be some type of science to support my hypothesis, wallets open in the Spring and non-profit organizations know it. 

We get lots and lots of questions about proper dress for fundraisers, parties, and charity events.  Since today’s weather is telling me Spring is upon Providence, I feel this is a good time to answer some of the most common questions. 

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Q. Marc, I’ve been invited to a very close friend’s house for his wife’s birthday party, and he wants everyone dressed up.  I’m a furniture maker and don’t have a closet full of nice clothes.  What should I wear? – Michael, NYC

A. Michael, it seems obvious that your friend wants to make an impression on the birthday girl.  My advice to you is to keep it simple; pair a blue blazer with your button down shirt and khakis.  A blue blazer is a man’s best friend and it will get you through anything; weddings, funerals, Bar Mitzvahs, Christenings, and even the occasional house party.  You wont be the most stylish guest at the house, but at least you wont be the underdressed guest.   Your friend will be content that you followed his instruction and your wife wont think you look like an idiot. 

If you want to take it up a notch, a black sport coat will command authority.  Add some texture or a light weight velvet black sport coat, and you’ll be distinguished among the masses. 

Q.  Due to my profession, I need to attend numerous charity and political fundraisers over the next few months.  I know how to dress for a night event, but many of these are afternoon parties.  How should I dress? –Peter, Boston

A. Afternoon parties and luncheons are easy if they’re during the week.  As long as you wear professional attire to work, wear the clothing you put on in the morning.  Now, if you work at a startup where jeans are the norm, you should always keep a sport coat or spare suit in the office to adjust your formalness to attend the event.

Weekends are a little trickier, especially if the event is at someone’s home.  A sport coat and trousers is always safe, but if you want to show your inner peacock, it’s acceptable to be a little more daring.  It’s appropriate to wear a more casual suit – the one with no shoulder pad and a very slouchy but sophisticated drape.  Escape the boring white or blue shirt, and grab a unique tie.  Always dress respectful, but look cool.  It’s the weekend, and these events are supposed to be fun. 

Q. I’m attending a sunset cocktail party at the beach in May….any ideas? – Steve, Providence

A. If cocktails are the main event, you should dress a little more jovial.  Wear an unconstructed sport coat made of linen, mohair and wool, or soft cashmere/silk blend.  This isn’t the time for your stiff Brooks Brothers suit, you’re on the beach.  Pants can be made of linen or a very soft cotton and rolled up to give you a casual but still respectful look.  Wear a loafer so you can flip your shoes off and enjoy the sand.

There’s nothing wrong with being creative, but always remember to be respectful and do your best to never embarrass your host or your date.

Marc Streisand is president and owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, and takes the custom clothing business very personally. Having enjoyed a successful career in the clothing industry since 1985, Marc brings his clients extensive specialized experience in menswear. Prior to taking over the Marc Allen store in March 2005, he cultivated his knowledge of luxury male attire in New York and his home state of New Jersey, where he began his vocation at Wallach's Specialty Stores. Nothing gives him greater pleasure, he says, than seeing raw cloth transformed into a custom outfit that can directly impact his customer's lifestyle.

Don't miss Marc Streisand's tips for men on GoLocalTV, fresh every day at 4pm and on demand 24/7, here.