Table of Content
Black tie looks are timeless, appreciated years after the event has taken place. Beyond just the expectation of a tuxedo, a black tie event expects a specific, classic interpretation of the tuxedo with specific accessories to accompany your black tie event suit. For males, black tie means a dinner jacket , which historically comes in black , hence black is commonly seen at black tie occasions.
There are different interpretations of the smart casual dress code but in short, it basically means not too casual but not too smart! If an outfit looks like it has been well put together and it fits you well, it could definitely fit into the category of smart casual. Typically, a smart casual dress code for men includes well-cut pants, a blazer, and a pair of loafers. Putting this together is quick to master by following two simple rules.
Black Tie in Asia
While your hosts don’t want to exclude anyone, they are trying to create a formal atmosphere and would prefer that guests dressed accordingly. The biggest difference between a tuxedo and a normal suit is the satin detailing. Dinner jackets have satin facing on the lapels, buttons, and pockets. A satin stripe also runs down the leg of the trousers.
As a result, I’ll be breaking down the guidelines for the most commonly used dress codes today. A black-tie event is a formal occasion requiring you to come dressed to the teeth in fancy formal attire. This is the easy one, because it’s really about whatever you’re comfortable in. Whether it’s a daytime BBQ, a weekend brunch, or a Friday happy hour, simply make sure your attire is casual, comfortable, and fits the season. Range of dress codes for men – from formal to casual.
Traditional Etiquette
Elegant events such as galas, silent auctions, weddings, formal dinners. Put on a skirt, khakis, or dress pants paired with long sleeve or three-quarter sleeve tops. Fashion Marketing graduate from The Art Institute of Seattle, decode what to wear for the following dress codes.
Traditional trousers were worn with a cummerbund. This is a sash of fabric, usually silk or satin, worn around the waist. Cummerbunds today are less popular than they were in the past. Dinner jackets traditionally have been made in black with satin lapels.
Can You Don a Suit in a Black Tie Wedding?
Unless otherwise specified on the invitation, ‘black tie’ in general permits any length, so midi and even shorter styles, within reason, are acceptable. But, given the formality, showing too much skin isn’t likely to be the classiest option and might draw the wrong kind of stares. Regardless of the formal level, the season can give you a great idea of what to wear. For example, if this black-tie event is outside in July, you most likely won't wear a floor-length ball gown. A cocktail dress would be a better move or a floor-length dress that is satin and has movement. In the classic films, you will find Bond adorned in a midnight blue coloured shawl lapel jacket paired with a midnight blue satin detailing.
Yeah, Forrest can take his analogies and stuff them in his giant home. For more information on dress codes, check out our full guide here. This is a very good article, and it reflects my beliefs almost entirely. This is a personal opinion, but one based on decades of experience in men’s fashion, as well as in Scottish Highland wear.
That’s why we created our Holiday Collection, full of unique, unexpected looks for the nights when you need to light it up . Wear formal shoes but without too much detail, such as wingtips. Avoid wearing the waist coat with the least facing down. Men used to tuck theater or train tickets into the folds, and occasionally still do. Some cummerbunds will have actual pockets hidden on the backside, but the pleats should of course still face upward.
Or, for a modern mashup of the other two styles, try this pleated front, fold-down collared shirt. If an event invitation calls for a black tie attire, it is important for men to dress appropriately to show that they are able to conform to the formality of the evening. Wearing black tie attire is also a mark of respect to the party host.
