Is there ever a wrong time and a place for formal wear? Possibly, but you could also probably argue that formal wear turns even the most mundane events, such as your niece’s ballet recital or a Saturday Farmer’s Market into an event! And honestly, after that one year where there was a global pandemic and we wore sweatpants (if we wore pants at all) and lost all sense of self and life and social norms, isn’t it nice to dress up, even if the occasion doesn’t really call for it?

Whatever your thoughts, here are some fantastic formal wear inspirations for your next big outing.

1. Blazer

Source: @aitorruiz107 via Instagram

A blazer can be incredibly versatile. They come in almost any fabrication – cotton, wool, polyblend, and flannel to name a few of the most popular. A blazer can be thrown on with jeans and a hoodie, just make sure your hood isn’t tucked into your blazer, giving you a Hunchback of Notre Dame appearance. You can wear one with a slim, tailored suit in a matching plaid or houndstooth pattern.

2. Office

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Days at the office are back, albeit maybe not full-time, but enough to where you need to actually put some thought into it. You’re not just being seen by your dog anymore. There are real humans you are interacting with and being dressed properly is of the utmost importance. Even if you work in a casual environment, it doesn’t hurt to don the occasional suit sans tie or wear a nice tailored pant with a sweater. Or be more formal on top with a white Tom Ford button up and a vest, but pair it down with dark indigo jeans. A pair of loafers also adds a subtle, cool vibe.

3. Pants

Source: @hamza.taqvim via Instagram

Source: @hamza.taqvim via Instagram

Emerald Shawl Tuxedo available from theblacktux.com

If you’re going into an office these days, you might have forgotten how to dress for the occasion. At least from the waist down. Keeping a blazer around to throw on for the inevitable Zoom meeting served its time and place, but now you need to add pants to the mix. Your co-workers will thank you. Tailored ankle pants in various fabrics, colors, and patterns will instantly pull your look together. Whether you work in a more formal business environment and wear the whole suit, vest, and leather shoes included, or you want to pair your pants and leather oxfords with a button-up and a cashmere sweater, tailoring your pants is essential to looking slick and chic.