Some of the perks that come with my job are attending fancy cocktails. At these events, patrons stand by cocktail tables sipping from dainty glasses. Ladies mostly wear elegant cocktail dresses. Gents usually show up in blazers or go all the way in a suit. Ties are optional.

But in this crowd there is always a guy or two who stands out, not because of his fancy attire, but because he looks like the DJ (no offence) or the guy there to fix the music system or the lighting. I can tell you now that I am one of those guys. 

The same thing happens at weddings. There is always that guy who shows up in jeans and sneakers like he was on his way to his farm. Even worse, some of them are actually related to the bride or groom!

At cocktail parties they don jeans with shirts shabbily hanging or khaki pants and loafers. 

Dress codes have been around for a while and are there for a reason. It’s okay to add a personal touch but keep it light. I know some people feel. 

Uncomfortable with dress codes but not following them will leave you feeling more uncomfortable as you will be out of place.

Others try to beat the system by wearing black jeans rather than black pants or loafers without socks rather than corporate shoes. That is usually edgy; at times it works…sometimes it fails.

It is probably best to play by the rules. Suiting up remains optional but official wear should be maintained. 

A nice sweater can come in place of a blazer to break the monotony. A suit without a tie or with a t-shirt in place of a shirt can play the role.

Jewelry should not be overdone; a watch, a bracelet, nothing too flashy or distracting.

As much as it is necessary, cologne should never be over emphasised either.

Whatever you do, make it easy to be described because of the positive attributes and not because you were mistaken for the electrician.