Monterrey - Post Report Question and Answers
What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
People in Monterrey generally dress more polished and put-together than in many parts of the U.S. While casual wear is common, it tends to be upscale. Brands like Lululemon are popular, and even athletic wear is styled intentionally. At work, business attire is the norm. For formal occasions, men typically wear suits, though guayabera shirts are also considered acceptable formalwear in professional and social settings. Women often wear dresses, skirts, or tailored outfits. Overall, there’s a cultural emphasis on looking presentable, even for casual outings. - Mar 2025
Mexicans are more formal than Americans, and typically do not leave the house wearing casual/lounge clothing. At work, a blouse and skirt or dress for a woman or a suit for a man is standard. - Feb 2021
Suits or guayaberas for men. Business for women. In public spaces men tend to be more dressed up than you’d see in the States and women wear heels. - Sep 2018
Business casual - in public, it's like going out in the U.S. - Mar 2014
Conservative. - Oct 2012
Work is dressy. Clothing in public can be casual, but even when it's casual, it's stylish. Monterrey is a very affluent city by Mexican standards, and San Pedro (where the consulate housing is) is affluent even by U.S. standards. - Oct 2010
At the consulate it is business dress. You don't have to go in with a suit and tie everyday, but slacks and a nice shirt are expected. In public, everyone dresses up. Women wear super-high heels to the grocery store. You will stand out if you are just wearing jeans, t-shirt and flip-flops. - Jul 2010
Work at the Consulate is shirt and tie suggested for the men. - Jan 2008
Like in the U.S. with a little more bling. - Jan 2008
