It’s the time for holiday parties. 

Although dressing up is fun for certain men, it can prove difficult for many guys after spending 18 months working remotely and only wearing sweatpants. 

Dean Handspiker (Vice President of Retail at Indochino) shares his top tips to being the most well-dressed party guest. It doesn’t necessarily require a suit.

'Tis the season for holiday gatherings. While getting dolled might be fun for some, dressing up can be challenging for most guys - especially after 18+ months of working from home and wearing sweatpants

It’s the time for holiday parties. Although dressing up is fun for certain men, it can prove difficult for many guys after spending 18+ months working remotely and still wearing sweatpants.

Dean Handspiker, vice president of retail at Indochino shares his top tips for being the best dressed party guest (and it doesn't always require wearing a suit!)

Dean Handspiker is vice president, retail of Indochino. He shares his tips on how to be the most dressed guest at a party (but it doesn’t have to require a suit!

To look like a better-dressed version of you without suiting up, Dean suggests a monochromatic look

Dean recommends a monochromatic style to look better than you are without dressing up.

Dean advises wearing a monochromatic look to make you appear better dressed without needing to dress up. 

According to the expert, ‘Tans and grays from head-to-toe are fashion statements’.

Although the ugly sweater is becoming more popular over the years due to its popularity, Dean suggests that anyone who wants to feel festive at casual events wear a red chunky sweater or fine gauge sweater. He also recommends staying clear of anything that has Santa Claus or reindeer on it.

Plaid pants can be a great option. 

Although a classic winter shirt for men is the check shirt, it can be difficult to style patterned pants.

Dean suggests pairing the turtleneck and the pair. 

Layer up with a velvet or slim fit jean jacket.

'Tans, grays or navy from head to toe make a style statement,' said the expert

Expert: “Tans, greys, or navy from head-to-toe make a statement about your style,”

Looking the part at a seasonal soiree shows respect for the host and the other attendees. If the invitation says formal, be advised that that doesn't have to mean a suit and tie

Respect for host and other guests is shown by dressing up at seasonal parties. Be aware that formal doesn’t necessarily have to be a tie and a suit.

Respect for host and other guests is shown by dressing up as the seasonal party goer. 

Be aware that formal does not have to refer to a suit or tie. 

According to the expert, a “fine gauge turtleneck” with tartan pants, a jewel-toned velvet jacket or crisp white shirt with dark denim is a good option.  

Dean recommends that you wear a suit if the dress code is not clear.

Men should wear a suit or sport coat. If you end up being over-dressed you’ll still be the best dressed.

The combination of a crisp white shirt and a grey suit with contrasting shoes is called ‘Crisp White’. The newest variation on this combination is the lightest version of grey flannel.

Repeating the same jacket to several events in the next two weeks is perfectly okay. People are unlikely to notice if worn differently. Styling options Dean suggests are: 'with a button down shirt or fine-gauge sweater, with dress trousers or dark denim.'

It is fine to wear the same jacket for multiple events within the next two weeks. It is unlikely that people will notice the jacket if it’s worn in a different way. Dean recommends styling it with a button down shirt, fine-gauge sweater and dark jeans.

Be aware that formal doesn’t always have to refer to a suit and tie. According to the expert, a high-quality turtleneck and tartan trousers are acceptable. A crisp white shirt with dark denim is also an option.

'Pockets squares can add color and pattern to a basic suit and a more refined shoe or boot also ups the style factor.'

The ‘Pocketssquares’ can bring color and patterns to any basic suit, and they also look great with a sophisticated boot or shoe.

'Men should default to a suit, or a sport coat at least. If you end up being over-dressed you’ll still be the best dressed. Crisp white shirt, grey suit, polished black shoe. The lightest of grey flannel is the newest twist on this combo.'

 ‘Men should default to a suit, or a sport coat at least. If you end up being over-dressed you’ll still be the best dressed. Crisp white shirt with a gray suit and polished black shoes. It’s the latest twist to this combination: The lightest gray flannel.

Finding the right way to make your appearance polished and professional is not difficult. 

Dean says that pockets squares are able to add pattern and color to basic suits, while a refined boot or shoe can elevate the style.

Don’t be tempted to buy multiple pieces. You can wear the same jacket for multiple events, such as Christmas dinner and New Years Eve party. It is fine to wear the same jacket for both Christmas dinner and New Years Eve parties within two weeks. It is unlikely that people will notice the difference if you wear something different. 

Dean recommends styling options such as ‘with button down shirt, fine-gauge sweater and dress trousers or dark jeans.