Invitations Asking Men to Wear Jackets

Why are so many invitations asking men to wear jackets? It seems so old-fashioned to insist that male guests wear a jacket. Especially, in warm weather when a well-made shirt should suffice. Even some restaurants won’t allow you in if you’re not wearing a jacket. Is this some kind of fashion throwback because everyone wears t-shirts?

–W.L., East Hampton, NY

A jacket improves a man’s overall appearance by making him look a few inches taller and several inches trimmer. Broadening his shoulders, a well-made jacket can give any man a more manly look.

Whether it is a sport jacket, blazer, suit jacket, tuxedo jacket, dinner jacket, it should be well cut and fit well to give you a more masculine profile.

Out of respect for your host, you always dress up as opposed to dressing down. The host is saying. It’s a nice party and I want guests to dress up to show their appreciation.

Wear an open-collared shirt, or even a t-shirt, as long as you wear a jacket. To feel more summery, don’t wear socks with your loafers or docksiders.

Wearing a jacket is a sign of respect for the people whom you are meeting.