Your bow tie should be black (never white), made from silk and hand-tied. Other colors – such as burgundy – can work, but only if the event allows it. Most importantly, ensure that it’s proportionate in size to your shirt collar and face shape.

December 10, 2025 - For men, the black-tie dress code means it's time for a tuxedo. Even darker suit colors aren't considered formal enough—a traditional tux is the way to go. You won't need a coat with tails, however, like you would with a white-tie attire wedding.

May 19, 2024 - Black-tie attire is a dress code reserved for the most elegant events, such as black-tie weddings, galas, charity balls, operas, and fancy dinners, required a tuxedo for men and masculine styles or a ball gown for women and feminine styles.

August 14, 2025 - Traditional black-tie attire is the epitome of elegance at weddings, symbolizing a highly formal dress code beyond even typical formal invitations. When a "black-tie wedding" pops up on your invite, it usually cues the grandeur of both the ceremony and reception.

3 weeks ago - They may feature a bib that is either marcella or starched and include stiff single cuffs secured with cufflinks, made of the same fabric as the bib; this type of shirt is exactly the same as one worn with white tie attire. The collar in this case is tall and stiff, which may be attached or detachable. When a full dress shirt is worn in this fashion, it is accompanied by the white marcella waistcoat ordinarily associated with white tie. Wearing white tie accessories in this manner is considered by many to be an affectation.

December 6, 2023 - The dreaded black tie optional doesn't have to be so anxiety inducing. Instead, take it as a suggestion that the event is not as formal and many varieties of dress should be acceptable.

February 5, 2025 - For anyone who wants to go the suiting route, the brief is pretty simple (and literal): you’re to wear a black bow tie with your dinner jacket. Because it’s a step down in fanciness from white tie, the black-tie dress code leaves more room ...

December 27, 2023 - When we talk about the tux, the first image that comes to mind is the iconic tuxedo jacket. It’s no wonder this outfit counts among the black-tie preferred wedding attire for many. Most commonly black, this jacket type is distinguished from a regular suit jacket in several regards.

March 20, 2015 - If you've been invited to a black-tie ... big-day guests to dress to the nines—and typically involves floor-length gowns for women and tuxedos for men....

July 17, 2023 - The black velvet luxurious loafers' subtle embellishments bring a contemporary touch to the attire. Also, remember that the shoes you wear should be comfortable and cozy. Finally, you can wear black dress socks long enough to cover your legs so no skin will show when you sit down. Always use simple items when wearing accessories, whether at a black tie event or any other event. At least three accessories are enough for a single dressing, so you don't overdo things. Unlike other events, black tie events do not require too many accessories, but they have some that one should consider wearing to enhance appearance.

3 weeks ago - It represents sophistication and tradition, calling for tuxedos for men and floor length gowns for women. Every detail, from fabric to fit, should feel polished and refined. Whether attending a Charleston destination wedding or a grand ballroom ...

When people ask ‘what is black tie attire?’, the tie you wear is the clincher. It’s a bow tie, and it's got to be black - or midnight blue if you’re feeling bold. No room for funky colours here, and never wear a white one - the white tie dress code is a whole other ball game.

December 3, 2024 - Unraveling the mystery of the black tie dress code begins with understanding its origins and significance. Traditionally reserved for formal evening events, black tie attire exudes elegance and sophistication.

1 week ago - A timeless black tie dress code has historically been a solid black or white single-button tuxedo jacket with satin grosgrain accents on the lapels, buttons, and down the pinstripe on the pants.

January 27, 2021 - Black tie attire is slightly less formal than white tie, but it is more formal than business attire. It is the most common formal dress code for events such as weddings, proms, formal dinners, and theatre. Here are the guidelines.

June 30, 2025 - If the event is very formal, you’re best off sticking to the tried-and-true colour combination of a black tuxedo and bow tie, worn with a white dress shirt. However, if there’s a chance to be a bit more playful, you can experiment with different ...

March 9, 2025 - For men, it's straightforward—simply slip into a tuxedo, and they’re all set. But for us ladies, it can be a little (who are we kidding, a lot) confusing. With so many modern interpretations of this dress code, the risk of committing a fashion ...

Black tie is appropriate for formal evening events that require elegance but allow for some flexibility in attire. Common occasions include weddings, gala dinners, award ceremonies, and upscale social gatherings.

May 29, 2018 - The essential items for a black-tie event are a dark suit, a shirt with cufflinks, a thin belt, dark shoes, and, most importantly, a dark bow tie or tie. A few invitations may specify the dress code for attending an event.