What Should I Wear To A Black Tie Event?
If your heading to an outdoor wedding, gala or any other formal event and they have set a black-tie dress code it can be difficult to pick the right outfit.
In this guide we explain what a black-tie event is and what men and women could wear to these formal events.
What Does Black Tie Mean?
Black tie is a dress code for formal social events that usual start after 6 pm. It is a savvy way for hosts to ensure that their guests dress in a formal manner. The black-tie dress code means different things for men and women, for a man it usually translates to a tuxedo or smart suit and for woman a long dress or gown.
Black Tie Dress Code For Men
The ingredients of a classic black tie look for men usually includes a black tuxedo with satin lapels, a sharpe white shirt, a black satin bow tie and well-polished black leather shoes.
Regarding the black bow tie, according to etiquette guide Debrett's it should be proportionate to your head size to avoid a clown look, and they recommend making it yourself rather than using a ready tied bow tie.
The trousers should have a natural taper with a single row of braid down the outside of each leg.
The dinner jacket should be black and single breasted or double breasted with no vents
Although it is possible to add a few other elements such as a cummerbund around the waist or a wing collar shirt it is recommended to always keep the look minimalistic.
A man's black-tie outfit is usually finished off with a white handkerchief in the left breast pocket.
Black Tie Dress Code For Women
For women a black-tie event dress code should include a floor length dress or a gown. The simplest rule to stick to when it comes to picking the perfect black-tie dress is to choose anything on or below the knee.
Gowns and dresses should be full length in dark shades with a classic silhouette to ensure the style won't date.
Generally, black tie dress codes are a bit more relaxed for women, for example, trousers are acceptable with Debretts recommending a palazzo cut.
For less formal events you could wear a sophisticated cocktail dress, especially if you feel uncomfortable in a full-length gown. However, make sure the cocktail dress is structured and elegant and sits at the knees.
To finish your look, you could add costume jewellery such as a simple bracelet or neckless, but nothing too blingy.
Finally, if your attending a wedding it is recommended you avoid wearing anything black or white, instead, stick to rich colour tones of red and navy or even a soft pink.
Hopefully this black-tie guide has helped you pick the perfect outfit and we hope you enjoy the event!
If you are putting on your own event like an outdoor wedding that requires luxury toilets or showers, please get in touch for an affordable quote.
Sources: The Trend Spotter / John Lewis / Standard / Debrett's
