New Year's Eve in the Caribbean...what to wear?
 

This may seem trivial but it's my first New Year's Eve in the Caribbean and the hotel we will be staying at is having a dinner and dance on that night. <BR><BR>The dress code is semi formal, and as a woman I think I can get away with a mid length black dress...but what about men?Is a shirt and tie to informal? <BR><BR>This is the Caribbean and I know things are more relaxed, and I really don't want to pack a jacket and all that for my husband, so what do people wear to a semi formal event on New Year's Eve in the Caribbean ?

Why not check with the hotel and ask if jacket is required, or advice on dress code. If you gave us the island and hotel we might be of more assistance. If its Bermuda (not tech. caribbean)its a jacket and tie!

I can't even imagine that semi-formal would include a jacket in the Caribbean.<BR>What hotel?<BR>You should check with them directly to resolve any question.

There's no rhyme or reason why a shirt and tie would be too informal. Even if other guys wear a jacket, once the action starts on the dance floor, no one will be wearing one.

Islanders do dress for special occasions and even wear tux for events so you should check to see what the hotel definations of semi-formal is. Would guess that a blazer or jacket would be the minimum. Taking it off during the party is another thing - just like it would be at home.

This idea won't work if you are 30-somethings, but if your husband is a distinguished-looking older man, he would probably look great and feel comfortable in the dress-up version of the traditional Caribbean shirt-jac.<BR><BR>A shirt-jac is an ivory or white cotton long or short sleeved shirt, with elaborate matching (ivory or white) embroidery on the front. It has side vents and is worn outside the trousers - not tucked in. Sometimes the front is pleated also. <BR><BR>The shirt-jac replaced collar and tie in the post-colonial days although, as I mentioned, it is mostly the older men (both locals and tourists) who wear them now. They look smashing.<BR><BR>

Yes, semi formal means a jacket and tie. New Year's Eve(Old Year's Night) is a dress up affair!<BR>Ronnie

If it's Puerto Rico, I'd be sure to dress up. They do it up nicely even when it's not a big occasion.

Thanks for all the replies, I took your advice and called the hotel. A shirt and tie is fine for men and ladies are expected to &quot;dress nice!&quot;

In Anguilla, I know Formal is Jacket and Tie but semi formal is a nice shirt and long pants - no shorts<BR><BR>E.g Dockers short sleeve shirt &amp; a long pants would be fine

the caribbean is very informal when it comes to dressing up. some shorts or a mini skirt, a tank top and some nike running shoes will do. your hair can be up in a pony tail and wear heavy make up, remember to drink lots of water as it gets HOT down there. <BR>sincerely,<BR>your friendly neighborhood spiderman!

Thank you Spiderman,<BR>but I am afriad shorts will not do..the hotel said nice dress which they further explained to be a long /mid length dress or pants suit for ladies and shirt and tie for men.<BR><BR>