Black tie
Black tie is a dress code for evening and social events. Worn only for events after 6 p.m., black tie is less formal than white tie but more formal than informal or business dress. The dress code for black tie event is classic, elegant and stylish.
To a black tie event the host expects tuxedos for men & floor length gowns for the ladies. Men can accessories their attire with bow ties, cummerbunds, cufflinks, and formal black shoes.
Ladies should accessories their dresses with a clutch bag, best jewellery and killer metallic/satin/beaded heels. For cold evening ladies can throw a colourful pashmina, shawl, fur or a coat over the dress.
Men’s/women’s wear for a black tie event
Black tie preferred: This simply means you need to wear a black tuxedo and a black tie otherwise send your regrets. Men should wear a full tuxedo which includes a black tux jacket, a white tux shirt with a wing collar, trousers, vest (optional) and a black bow tie for the event. Ladies should wear a black knee length or maxi gown. The dress can be accessorised according to personal preference. A floor length gown is more elegant than short/cocktail dress.
Black tie preferred/ black tie requested: This is when you can wear a dark suit such as blue/midnight blue tuxedo and a tie to the event. Ladies should wear a smart formal dress or a cocktail dress
Black Tie Optional: This is when formal attire is not required it’s encouraged. Wear either full black tie attire (e.g., a tux) or you can wear a nice suit. The guests will most likely be split in half between strictly black tie and formal style dressing. Ladies should wear a nice formal dress.
(Photo credit: James Alexander Lyon)
