We have all had the experience where we attend a business meeting, social gathering or wedding and see someone sticking out like a sore thumb in the crowd because of their attire. Was it a suit-and-tie event and they looked as if they just stepped off the golf course? When someone is grossly underdressed at an event, it remains in people’s mind for quite some time because it appears as a sign of disrespect. Although this person isn’t consciously saying, “I hold my own comfort in higher regard than the hosts’ event,” we all seem to think that when we see them.

Often times, I will receive a very obscure invitation and have no idea how to dress. If a coworker shoots you an email and says, “I’m having people over for dinner on Saturday night,” how do you dress? It is the weekend afterall and perhaps you know your coworker to be a very casual person. Would jeans and a polo shirt suffice? There’s a great chance that it would but we’re not going to take that chance.

Whenever in doubt, overdress! People will notice that you’re overdressed the same way the guy in jean shorts is noticed for being underdressed–the difference is that you will earn respect! Showing up slightly better shows that you respect those that invited you and as we know, that sentiment is reciprocated. There is still a fine line to walk. You do not want to show up in a suit where others are wearing jeans and a polo shirt but usually it is easy to decide where to draw that line.

A great trick to overdressing is to wear an outfit that can be easily modified. If my company sends me to a meeting with some of our partners, I like to wear a shirt, tie and jacket. I will wear a patterned shirt with my tie and plain black pants. Often, I arrive and see that the partner’s dress code is business casual. Furthermore, I can often spot this from the parking lot. If this is the case, I take off the tie and enter with my suit pants, shirt and jacket. Immediately upon entering the room, I’m the best-dressed attendee! However, I can soon fit in by simply removing my jacket and putting it on the back of a chair. Now, while others are wearing khaki pants and polo shirts, I’m only one step higher with my slacks and collared shirt. If I still feel a little out of place, rolling up my sleeves puts my right in the same ballpark as my colleagues.

Following these simple rules will go such a long way. When I walk in the meeting in my attire and am a little out-of-place, people will certainly notice. The beauty of it is, nobody will think, “I can’t believe he has the nerve to show up at our meeting dressed this way.” Instead, they will see that I respect their company and the meeting that they are holding. This will carry a lot of weight and immediately make a great first impression.

Have you ever been absolutely under or overdressed? I’d love to hear how you felt in your own experience so please leave a comment to share with our readers. Also, what do you wear if an acquaintance invites you over for a dinner party? It is a quandry so be a star and share with everyone how you handle the situation!