RESORT/COUNTRY CLUB FORMAL

„Resort formal“ also called "Resort evening" is one of the strictest codes. It's a step above "Resort semi-formal" and only a step down from "Formal“. Resort wear is usually made of lightweight and breathable fabrics like silk, high-quality cotton, georgette, or poplin.

Colors like turquoise, aquamarine blue, sand, terra cotta, fuchsia, lime green, tangerine, and sunflower are all appropriate. Wear patterns like stripes, polka dots, and bold floral prints.
Resort formal attire is sometimes called Country club formal, Beach formal, or Garden attire, depending on the occasion.

What is a resort or country club formal attire?

As the weather may not be suitable for a classic three-piece suit, the resort formal attire is considered different from traditional “formal” wear. But determining what is considered "formal" in a resort setting, can be a bit challenging. Typically chosen for weddings and special occasions, resort formal dress codes are more relaxed and akin to attire suitable for a cocktail party.

You can typically find this type of attire in country clubs, upscale resorts, or high-end hotels that aim to maintain a certain level of elegance during dining hours. The definition of resort wear can vary among different establishments, leading to some uncertainty. Generally speaking, the more luxurious and sophisticated the venue, the stricter the dress code will be.

Therefore, men are advised to wear a suit, but a button-up shirt paired with a dinner jacket and slacks can also be appropriate. Dress shoes are preferred over tennis shoes or sandals. Women, on the other hand, have a wider range of options. Various styles are acceptable, ranging from full-length dresses and gowns to a chic pantsuit or skirt paired with a stylish blouse. It is recommended that all outfits be complemented with a nice pair of flats or heels.

Dress code resort or country club semi-formal attire - where is it appropriate?

The dress code “Resort formal" is typically required: 

• In fancier restaurants, bars, and clubs at high-end resorts and hotels in the evenings
• On a cruise in the evening
• At formal courtyard parties, garden parties, and outdoor weddings that take place in the evening
• Cocktail party or business gathering
• The formality level may vary slightly from resort to resort and for some establishments, the dress code “Resort semi-formal (resort elegant)” will be appropriate as well.

Resort or country club formal attire women

Resort vacations are often associated with relaxation, but there are occasions where upscale resort wear is necessary, such as cocktail parties, formal dinners, or resort weddings. Dressing elegantly for these events is essential to make a lasting impression.

Elegant resort attire typically involves a smart dress, an elegant top paired with a skirt or pants. To complete your look, choose a pair of eye-catching shoes. Opt for block or wedge heels for extra support, or strappy flat sandals for beach events.

Country club or resort formal attire women - what to wear

• A button-down dress shirt with a dinner jacket and slacks
• Cocktail dresses
• Full-length dresses, including evening gowns
• Dress shoes
• A dressy full-length jumpsuit or pantsuit.
• Quality linen and formal trousers or elegant capris with a dressy top or shell top. A shell top, or shell blouse, is a simple sleeveless, sometimes cap sleeve, slip-on collarless blouse.
• Nice and stylish long skirts paired with exotic shell tops or tops.
• A casual dress, sundress, Indian kurti, or tunic with or without a waist belt.
• Light fabrics like linen, chiffon, organza, cotton blends, or even lace are the best, because they can still look luxurious, but do not cling to the body.
• A formal tea-length or knee-length sundress.
• Long, exquisite, elegant, romantic, and floaty maxi dresses and backless maxi dresses made of silk or georgette.
• Carry a stole, pashmina, shrug, scarf, or sheer shawl for cooler evenings.
• Pumps, high heels, embellished sandals, and other open-toe style shoes are all acceptable. For “garden attire” pick wedge heels or flats.
• Shimmery bracelet and earrings, finishing the look with a bedazzled clutch.
• Makeup and hair can be more bold than resort semi-formal attire, but still summery, light, and not too formal.

Country club formal attire women - what to avoid

Women should avoid being casual or sporty and wearing:

• Bikinis, monokinis or other swimming suits
• Jeans
• Yoga pants
• Shorts and cutoff shorts
• T-shirts
• Tank tops, tube tops, and camisoles
• Sweatshirts and sweatpants
• Short dresses, and mini skirts
• Boots
• Sandals
• Flip flops
• If you are invited to a Beach Wedding then avoid white or off-white!

Country club formal attire men

For men, country club resort formal typically implies long sleeves, long pants, and no shorts. It also calls for closed-toed shoes which can be derbies or oxfords in brown tones or tans. You can also opt for a more playful approach, perhaps choosing a pair of spectators or maybe some white shoes - something that is more summery and associated with the tropics. 

Avoid black shoes even in the evening as they are not quite suitable for the tropics. While a jacket is not obligatory, it is definitely recommended. 
Here at StyleUp, we always appreciate it because in the evening, the temperature can drop a bit and it adds elegance and style. We recommend a navy blazer, a cotton jacket with a slight check, or maybe a fresco jacket in a lighter color. If you wish, you can wear a seersucker suit but generally, it's better to avoid suits and opt for combinations.

Match your belt with your shoes and feel free to incorporate bolder colors in certain elements of your outfit as the resort is fun, casual, and not business-oriented. When it comes to accessories, you can also be a bit more adventurous. Consider madras patterns, grenadine, knit, or even a bow tie - something unique that wouldn't typically be worn with a business suit. Of course, if you prefer, you can skip neckwear altogether but if you're wearing a jacket, we recommend at least a pocket square to elevate your look and add a touch of style.

If you're not a fan of over-the-calf socks, opt for no-show socks. They help prevent sweating and blisters. For shirts, you can choose dress shirts with an open weave or go for long-sleeved polo shirts for a more casual look, just ensure they have a nice color and are not flimsy.

Country club formal attire men - what to wear

• Shirts: Opt for long-sleeved collared shirts or dress shirts with an open weave. Alternatively, you can choose long-sleeved polo shirts, just ensure they have a pleasing color and are not flimsy.
• Jackets: Consider jackets such as a navy blazer, a cotton jacket with a subtle check pattern, or a lighter-colored fresco jacket. The term "fresco" originates from the Italian word "affresco," meaning "fresh." This fabric is highly breathable, comparable to pure linen but without the tendency to wrinkle. In fact, Frescos are naturally resistant to wrinkles due to their crisp fibers and open weave. Another option is a seersucker suit.
• Pants: Opt for long pants like slack pants or khakis.
• Shoes: Choose closed-toed shoes in brown tones or tans, such as dress shoes, derbies, or oxfords. You can also consider spectator shoes (also known as co-respondent shoes) or white shoes, as they evoke a more summery and tropical vibe.
• Accessories: Coordinate your belt with your shoes. Feel free to incorporate bolder colors in certain elements of your outfit, as the resort's formal setting is fun and casual, rather than too formal. Consider wearing a bow tie or a neck scarf. While neckwear is not mandatory, if you choose to wear a jacket, adding a pocket square can elevate your look. If you prefer not to wear over-the-calf socks, consider opting for no-show socks. Ensure that your socks complement your outfit and avoid pairing white socks with black shoes.
• Colors and patterns: Embrace patterns like madras and textures like knits, and don't shy away from bold colors like grenadine. However, navy is always a more safe and versatile option.

Country club formal attire men - what to avoid

• Shorts
• Black shoes, boots, sneakers and sandals
• Jeans
• T-shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Sweatpants
• Cuffed pants
• Excessively long or baggy pants or shorts
• Hoodies
• Jean jackets
• Cowboy hats

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