Can I ditch the tie if it's 90 degrees outside?

Not for a first meeting. Dress formally to show respect. You can remove your tie or jacket later in the meeting if your hosts do so first.

Is it different in the creative industries?

Slightly. In advertising or tech in cities like Buenos Aires or Mexico City, you can drop the tie, but stick to a dark blazer and dress trousers. Never go 'business casual' for the first encounter.

Dressing for Business Meetings in Latin America

Prioritize formal, conservative attire to signal respect for your counterparts. Dark-colored suits for men and professional blazers or dresses for women are the standard in major business hubs like São Paulo, Bogotá, and Mexico City.

Match the local level of formality. Latin American business culture is generally more formal than the US tech-casual norm. Even in warmer climates, avoid polos or khakis for a first meeting. Wear a suit and tie until you are explicitly told otherwise.
Choose high-quality fabrics. Opt for lightweight wool or wool-blend suits. Avoid linen, as it wrinkles easily in transit and during long meetings, which can look unprofessional. Ensure your clothes are freshly pressed upon arrival.
Keep the color palette neutral. Stick to navy blue, charcoal gray, or black. These colors are universally accepted as professional and serious. Avoid bright colors or loud patterns until you have built a personal relationship with your partners.
Focus on footwear. Shoes are often a point of assessment. Wear clean, polished leather dress shoes (for men) or closed-toe leather heels/flats (for women). Avoid sneakers entirely, regardless of the industry.

Can I ditch the tie if it's 90 degrees outside?: Not for a first meeting. Dress formally to show respect. You can remove your tie or jacket later in the meeting if your hosts do so first.
Is it different in the creative industries?: Slightly. In advertising or tech in cities like Buenos Aires or Mexico City, you can drop the tie, but stick to a dark blazer and dress trousers. Never go 'business casual' for the first encounter.