And if DH has a suit that still fits, why a preference for jacket and pants? Wear the darn suit.

Well clutching a phone, comb, spare tampon, etc is more easily done in a purse.

Clubs often have dress codes requiring coats AND ties. And generally no jeans or athletic shoes (including the men's "dress" shoes with athletic soles, unless there is a medical reason). I'd steer my husband away from cotton khakis and suggest he wear wool trousers with a sport coat or wear a suit. White shirts are more appropriate after 6 than colors or patterns.

So if it is an evening "coat and tie" event at a club, a cocktail dress is the call. Lean more conservative in the hemline and cleavage; it isn't a nightclub. You could even wear an office-type dress and glam it up with the accessories and shoes.

Anonymous wrote:Cocktail but nicer business outfit would work as well. I would use an evening bag vs a day bag but it doesn’t need to be too fancy.

+1
OP, I think I was also raised by wolves and had to learn the hard way. I usually don't go through the trouble with a clutch and take my day handbag or nothing. A little black (or navy) dress also works here - cute shoes - not classic work pumps.