Underdressed

The adjective 'underdressed' describes a situation or a person wearing clothing that is considered too casual or informal for a particular occasion or environment. It implies a mismatch between the expected level of formality and the clothing worn. This perceived discrepancy often arises from a deviation from established social norms or dress codes, leaving the individual appearing less prepared or appropriately attired for the setting. The degree of 'underdressed' can vary widely, ranging from mildly inappropriate to significantly out of place, depending on the event's or environment's level of formality and the wearer's choice of attire. Consideration of the context is essential to determining whether someone is considered 'underdressed'.

Underdressed meaning with examples

• At the black-tie gala, Sarah felt incredibly underdressed in her cocktail dress compared to the floor-length gowns worn by other attendees. She wished she had researched the event's dress code beforehand. It made her feel self-conscious throughout the evening and a little out of place. Despite this, she enjoyed the gala.
• He was underdressed for the job interview, arriving in jeans and a t-shirt while the company expected business professional attire. This first impression likely impacted his chances of getting the position. He should have chosen a suit or at the minimum a blazer.
• The tourists were visibly underdressed for the chilly mountain hike, unprepared for the weather and not equipped with appropriate hiking attire. They lacked the necessary layers and sturdy shoes, creating a hazard. They struggled to cope with the sudden temperature drop.
• She felt underdressed for the formal dinner at her boss's house, wishing she'd selected a more elegant outfit. The other guests were in formal wear. The situation made her a bit uncomfortable during dinner as she felt her dress code did not match the occasion.
• The casual Friday dress code at the office was misinterpreted, as several employees were arguably underdressed. Some wore extremely relaxed attire. This caused a conversation amongst management about enforcing the dress code more strictly to create a better working environment.