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In fact, sprinkling a couple of contrasting elements here and there can make your black tie attire feel bold and unique which can help you stand out from the crowd. The fabric of your attire can complete shape not only how it feels, but how it looks. For example, linen comes off light and airy, ideal for a semi-formal beach wedding. Velvet, satin, sequins, and chiffon, however, can look sleek, stylish, and exceptionally put-together. Just make sure that you’re comfortable enough in a given fabric to sit, stand, and dance the day and/or night away in it. The most difficult part is to choose a dress that you are going to wear to this event.
Just make sure your accessories are ice-breaker status – your host will appreciate the effort you’ve made provided you’re wearing a Phoebe Philo-era Céline crystal collar. And if all else fails, buy a cluster of diamanté brooches and pile them on to lapels and necklines – or in messy, bed-head hair. That definition still doesn’t narrow it down enough to dress with full confidence.
Pink Mini Dress with Puff Sleeve and Diamante Trim
Women can choose either a formal evening gown, a shorter cocktail dress, or dressy separates. The best attire for women is timeless and neutral clothing. Consider the event you are attending (e.g., wedding, work function) and the time of the day. Black tie dress codes can cause serious stress, especially if they are not clearly stated.
Make sure to choose a dress that is timeless and high quality. You shouldn’t wear the latest trends or cheap clothes to a sophisticated event, like a black-tie function. Stick to timeless silhouettes and styles that will not age. The words “black tie” allude to the expectation that men wear a black tuxedo, but women have all the room in the world to play with color. And as long as you aren’t attending a wedding, white can also be a very elegant color choice. Celebratory events such as holiday parties can also be occasions for formal attire.
The Best Black Tie Dress Code Guide You’ll Ever Read
Typically, the go-to wedding attire for women at a black tie event is an evening gown. If you choose to go this route, yours should be full-length, meaning the hemline reaches the floor. This shouldn’t be confused with maxi-length dresses, which most often land at your ankle and aren’t considered floor-length dresses.
Look for a silk or satin style that matches the rest of your wedding outfit. Experiment with patterned or colored options to match your tuxedo and tie. Black-tie wedding guest attire is more versatile than you might think. This gorgeous maxi dress checks all the boxes without feeling over-the-top fancy, meaning you'll likely be able to wear it again. Plus, the leg slit and sleek satin material add a sultry edge.
Black and Gold Bow Tie, Black Velvet Bow Tie, Black Tie Event, Wedding Bow Tie, Groomsmen Bow Ties
Just make sure that you double check the wedding invitation and wedding website before you reach out to anyone for clarification. Black-tie events are the most formal dress code you’ll come across (assuming you’re not a royal), so floor-length dresses are encouraged. If that isn’t your thing, you have options — a fancier mid-length gown or cocktail dress is generally still appropriate (and no, you don’t need to wear black). This probably seems like a particularly tricky request, but it’s pretty simple. For a black tie optional wedding, men can wear a tuxedo but they don’t have to.
From monogrammed circles to nautical anchors, bejeweled styles, and even sports-themed options, cufflinks come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. When you're wearing a tuxedo, we recommend sticking to cufflinks with a metal finish, such as platinum or yellow gold. The soft blue hue of this minimalist maxi is great for guests attending a daytime black-tie wedding. Daytime events allow for a little more freedom in terms of dress length and color. A dramatic pair of earrings or a statement necklace will add a chic finishing touch to this summery ensemble. When going to a black tie event, always choose a black or dark navy suit.
Easy outfit ideas
For men, this might mean a suit jacket and slacks with a shirt and tie or a sweater and button-down. For women, a blouse and dress pants or a statement dress is appropriate. Business professional for men typically refers to a dark-colored suit and tie.
Black-tie galas are a great opportunity to show off your style. You can achieve this look without feeling too formal by choosing a floor-length, elegant and sophisticated gown. While black is the most popular choice for gala attire, it’s not hard to find other options such as red, white, and metallics.
