Attire for a Weekend Champagne Brunch Wedding?

Dear Polite One,

We have been invited to a weekend Champagne brunch. The hostess has asked that the men wear "proper white attire". What exactly would you conclude he wears? Does this mean white pants, white shirt? Or nice casual slacks and a white shirt?

We don't want to appear unsophisticated either showing up inappropriately dressed or ask the hostess for an explanation.

Please help.

J.L.

Dear J.L.,

This is an old-fashion dress code indicating the attire expected when playing croquet: white linen suit. It could be slacks and jacket in white as well. But these days it is difficult to know for sure, because many, especially young people, are using the dress code to mean fashionable white night-on-the-town clothing. The look is very sheik. I would go with white suit or jacket and slacks.

Alternately, you could call the couple and ask for clarification. The couple just may want that old-fashion look.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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