Attending a charity event can be a good way to give back to the community while also promoting your brand or businesses. Charity events can be formal or informal, which will influence your dress code.
Choosing what to wear during a charity event can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know the theme. Even though most charity events are casual, taking a gamble with your dress code can be a huge risk. You don’t want to end up being the odd one out among the attendees or participants.
In this guide, we share some important tips to help you make the best choice when it comes to what to wear to a charity event.
Casual Dress Code
Most charity events feature a casual theme with a relaxed dress code. The event could be a walk or marathon to raise funds for a cause. In such instances, dress in something that isn’t too formal. A pair of jeans, t-shirt, and trainers will cut it for both men and women.
However, you can also wear a tracksuit, especially if you will be an active participant in physical activities. Wear nice shoes that complement your choice of clothes and avoid formal leather shoes, sneakers, or sandals.
Formal Dress Code
A black-tie dress code means that you have to wear formal clothes. Most of these formal charity events may involve dinner to raise cash for a good cause. For men, you can go with a tuxedo or black suit, bowtie or slim tie, and dress shoes.
Also, ensure your hair is neat, if you cut your hair short, a nice little fade on the sides will complement your overall look.
For women, you cannot go wrong with a black-tie dress or a formal cocktail dress. Besides that, you can also ditch the dresses for a women’s blazer and ankle-length slim-fit trousers. You can finish off the look with a casual top or white shirt and a pair of heels.
Semi-Formal Dress Code
Semi-formal events give you a little bit of room to try out a dress code that is borderline casual. Men can still wear suits, though it doesn’t have to be a tuxedo. You can also ditch the tie or bow tie altogether. You can also wear a fitting pair of jeans and a suit jacket as long as they look classy and fit well.
There are also some good options for women. You can choose to go with a long dress that isn’t as formal as a black-tie gown. The other options include a cocktail or maxi dress. For the shoes, you can choose between strappy sandals, heels, or dressy flats. Sandals are an excellent choice, especially if it is an outdoor event.
You also get a chance to combine your classy looks with logo wear. You can get stylish by creating custom-branded polo shirts that feature your brand’s logo. These can go well with a suit jacket, fitting jeans, or dress pants. You can get more information about custom-branded charity clothing from the manufacturers’ websites.
Most casual charity events are held outdoors, so items such as branded caps and tote bags are excellent additions.
Your Choice of Accessories
The right accessories can complement your look. However, if you don’t get it right, they can break what was an excellent fit. The number one rule is to avoid wearing something that is distracting or too flashy. For example, large earrings or bangles will not go well with a formal outfit.
When choosing accessories, go for items or pieces that add a touch of class and elegance. A nice watch or a pearl necklace is right. For men, a watch is okay, but you can also add a pair of diamond studs as they suit many styles and work for multiple occasions.
Don’t Forget Your Hair and Makeup
A fresh shave does wonders for men, especially if you are attending a formal event. As mentioned before, if you like keeping your hair short, any type of fade will work well. There are many types of fades to choose from, so ask your barber for a recommendation.
Also, don’t forget to trim your beard and sideburns. A fresh cut will add a touch of elegance to your formal look, especially if you are donning a tuxedo. While you’re at it, trim your fingernails and make sure they are clean and well-manicured.
For women, keep your makeup simple with subtle and polished touches. On the other hand, for your hair, you cannot go wrong with a sleek blowout or classic updo. Don’t forget a manicure and pedicure, especially if you will be wearing open shoes.
What If You’re in Doubt?
It does happen: sometimes you feel stuck on what to wear to a charity event. If you are in this situation, don’t hesitate to contact the event organizers for more information. They will be more than happy to point you in the right direction including suggestions on what dress code is expected for the event.
You can also check out the company’s webpage for photos of past events. While you’re at it, click through their social media pages, and you may stumble across photos from previous events.
You can also ask friends for recommendations if you are having a hard time choosing the right fit for the event.
Wrapping Up
Charity events are a good place to give back to the community for both brands and individuals. This guide will help you choose what to wear to a charity event. You don’t have to go overboard or go shopping for new clothes. The goal is to look decent and have a good time with other attendees.
A simple yet decent outfit will create a good impression. Don’t forget to wear a nice cologne or body spray. Looking and smelling nice will raise your confidence levels, especially if you have to network and sell your brand.
Select the right accessories to finish off your look. As mentioned, focus more on pieces that will add more elegance, for example a watch or pearl necklace. Another thing to consider is the weather. Wear light clothing if the event is being held outdoors during the summer. Dressing for a cold season can be challenging, especially if it is a formal event.