How To Dress For Wine Tasting

When it comes to wine tastings, there's an unspoken dress code that can mean the difference between fitting in effortlessly or feeling awkwardly out of place. With wine tasting events held in various settings and environments, from wineries to high-end bars and even virtual tastings, it's essential to know what to wear and look effortlessly chic. In this blog post, we'll guide you through dressing for a wine tasting event in style while staying true to your unique fashion sense.

Understand the event's context

To start, it's essential to know the context of the wine tasting you are attending. The location, season, and the formality of the event should dictate your outfit choice.

• Location: Wine tastings hosted at wineries usually call for more casual attire, while events held at upscale bars or fine dining establishments may require a dressier ensemble.
• Season: Consider the season and local climate when choosing fabrics and colors; light and airy items for hot summer days and heavier knits or jackets for colder months.
• Formality: Keep in mind the event’s formality; some wine tastings may have a dress code, specified on the invitation or the event posting, which you should adhere to.

Basic wine tasting attire

Whether you're attending a casual or dressy wine tasting, there are some wardrobe basics that will have you looking sophisticated and feeling comfortable.

• For women: A simple dress, casual jumpsuit, or blouse with trousers or a skirt. Accessorize with minimal jewelry and wear comfortable, yet stylish shoes. Avoid wearing strong perfumes that can interfere with your ability to taste and smell the wine.
• For men: Opt for a nice shirt, paired with tailored trousers or dark jeans. A blazer or sports coat can add a touch of sophistication. Classic, clean shoes are essential, and avoid strong colognes or aftershaves.

Colors and fabrics

When deciding on colors for your wine tasting attire, it's best to opt for darker shades, such as navy blue, black, or dark grey. Wine spills can happen, and it's better to be safe than sorry. Keep the fabric breathable and comfortable so you can focus on enjoying the wine and engaging with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Dress accordingly for the setting

Different wine tasting events, such as formal dinners or casual outdoor tastings, demand different attire. Let the setting dictate the level of dressiness.

• Formal events: For a dressier wine tasting or wine pairing dinner, women should opt for a cocktail dress or a sophisticated jumpsuit, while men can go for a suit and tie or a blazer with dress pants.
• Casual outdoor tastings: For events at wineries or outdoor locations, opt for a more relaxed look. Women can wear a sundress, skirts or pants with a stylish blouse, and men can choose button-down shirts with jeans or chinos. Don't forget your sunglasses!

How To Dress For Wine Tasting Example:

Sample outfits for a wine tasting event

Women:

• Outdoor wine tasting: a floral midi-dress with wedges or sandals, and a sun hat
• Formal wine dinner: a black cocktail dress with delicate jewelry, and stylish heels
• Casual wine bar event: a blouse with high-waisted trousers, and block-heeled ankle boots

Men:

• Outdoor wine tasting: a short-sleeve button-down shirt, chinos, and loafers
• Formal wine dinner: a navy blue suit, crisp white shirt, and dress shoes
• Casual wine bar event: a patterned button-down shirt, dark jeans, and clean sneakers

Dressing for a wine tasting event doesn't have to be intimidating. By considering the context of the event, understanding the basics of wine tasting attire, and adapting your outfit to the setting, you'll be effortlessly chic and ready to enjoy every sip. We hope this guide has equipped you with the confidence to dress impeccably for your next wine tasting adventure. Remember to share this article with fellow wine aficionados, and explore more guides and insights at Black Wine Club.