When is it ok to skip the tie?

[Chad]

Invite read "jacket recommended" or something similar, what's your opinion on whether or not a tie would be appropriate?

It's my first board meeting, new to the board, just wondering what you fine folks feel would be ok. It didn't say "coat and tie" just jacket. Not work related.

I'll probably wear the tie with the option to loosen or lose completely depending on what others do. Overdressed is easier to fix than underdressed right?

[Eddie]

I'll probably wear the tie with the option to loosen or lose completely depending on what others do. Overdressed is easier to fix than underdressed right?

Yes.

If you're not sure, I would always err on the side of slightly overdressed. As you say, much easier to dress down than up at the last minute.

[chasea]

The last time I felt overdressed I was 12. Every other time I've been the guy in the suit, I was just the guy in the suit.

What's the worst that can happen, people say you look good?

[cody.wms]

I'd go blue blazer, grey pants, black shoes, OCBD, and tie. Lose the tie if need be. With it being your first one, I don't think it would be bad to be overdressed, but within the blazer bounds (i.e. no suit). I wouldn't loosen a tie, ever, but that's just me.

[burgess1108]

You didn't say what kind of board this was (charity, non-profit, business), but I'd err on the side of looking professional and ready to assume the duties of a boardmember so a suit and tie is in order. As others have said, nobody ever faults you for being overdressed and looking good. The same can't be said for being underdressed.

Oh, and congratulations and good luck!

[AngryScientist]

i would take an invitation that reads "jacket recommended" as a sign that being underdressed is a common mistake, dont be that guy.

[christian]

I'm with Cody, but I'd go with #8 shoes! :)

[Chad]

Shoes black. Thanks everyone!

[RickM]

At minimum, take a tie. You must know something of this entity's internal culture if you're on the board(?) Or are you just presenting, etc..? If you're a guest/presenter etc...go in wearing a tie. If you wear a tie...don't loosen it. Remove it if you see it's okay. Company culture for internal goings-on can be surprising. At staid old GE...we never wore neckties for internal-only exec meetings even if you were face-to-face with Jack or Jeff. Any outsiders involved? Ties. Where I am now...any big-deal meetings require a tie. The culture here is physician-driven and defined..and physicians must wear neckties.