Need Some basic advice on formal wear
Hey everyone. I really don't know the first thing about how to dress myself, but I need to put together an outfit for my dissertation defense in a few weeks.
I have two pieces already: a dark navy blazer and some dark brown shoes. What shirt, pants, belt, tie etc would go well with these pieces? I don't have a lot of money, so I need to find some budget prices.
I would really appreciate any advice; clothing has caused me anxiety my whole life, but I really want to look passably good for this event. If it's not too my trouble, I'd love it if someone could suggest some specific items easily purchasable on Amazon.
Thanks everyone.
3 Replies
Hey Kevin! Congratulations on being so close to your dissertation defense!
I don't think many here would recommend cheap clothing on amazon because the cheapest way to find quality clothing in that style is likely second hand from ebay, grailed, depop, etc..
You might also find some pieces for sale at JCrew
Do you know your measurements? That is an important place to start when buying new clothes
A navy blazer and brown shoes are a very versitile place to start!
I'm confident with a little advice here you will look alot more than passibly good for your defense 🙂
can we see what your shoes and blazer look like?
IME dissertation defenses tend to vary in how casual/formal you are expected to dress depending on the department.
Here’s what I’d suggest if it leans more casual in your area: white or light blue oxford cloth button down shirt, tan or beige chinos.
If more formal: white or blue dress shirt (though an OCBD would likely be fine most places), grey wool dress trousers, maybe a tie if that feels normal in your department.
For belt, I’d match the belt leather to the color of your shoes. Doesn’t need to be exact, just in the ballpark.
Here’s a recommendation with examples, but I understand you may not want to pay as much as what’s here. Brooks Brothers is having a sale right now, and the shirt should be $80, plus 15% off if you take their deal as a first-time buyer.
Plain white dress shirt, solid burgundy tie, white linen pocket with or without the contrasting edge. You can find a good pocket square for less, but it’s a fine example. I agree with the suggestion of grey wool trousers, with a belt that matches your shoes
