Learn What To Wear To A Black-Tie Event

Learn What To Wear To A Black-Tie Event

Dress codes can be confusing, especially for the unversed. That's why we've created a guide to help you master all the ins and outs of black-tie attire.

If you have been invited to a black-tie event, it is important to know what kind of clothing is appropriate to wear. This can be a tricky dress code to interpret, as there are many different levels of formality that can be associated with black tie attire. Here are some tips to help you choose the right outfit for your next black-tie event.

What Is Black Tie

What Is Black Tie?

Most people interpret a black-tie outfit to mean that they should wear their nicest, most formal clothes to an event. Black tie events are usually held in the evening and are quite dressy affairs. The term "black tie" actually refers to the type of necktie that should be worn with a tuxedo. A black bow tie is typically worn with a tuxedo, although some people prefer to wear a long black necktie.

For men, the most important thing to remember is that a black-tie event is an opportunity to dress up and look your best. A suit is always a good choice, but if you want to go the extra mile you can opt for a tuxedo. make sure that your shirt is white and that your shoes are polished. If you are unsure about which tie to wear, go for a classic black one.

Events That Might Have A Black-Tie Dress Code

Events That Might Have A Black-Tie Dress Code

There are many different types of events that might have traditional black-tie dress codes. Formal dinners, charity galas, and red carpet events are all occasions where you might be expected to cocktail dress in your best black-tie attire. If you are unsure whether or not an event is a black-tie, it is always better to err on the side of caution and dress up rather than dressing down.

What To Wear To A Black-Tie Event

What To Wear To A Black-Tie Event

If you are looking to wear something other than black to a black-tie event, there are many other color options available to you.

Tuxedos for black tie event

Tuxedos

If you do decide to wear a tuxedo, there are many different styles to choose from. The classic style is always a good choice, but if you want something with a bit more personality you can opt for a colored tuxedo jacket or one with interesting detailing.

Click here to learn more about How to wear a tuxedo for black tie event.

There are three types of tuxedos that you can choose from:

Single-Breasted suit for black tie event

Single-Breasted

This is the most classic style of tuxedos and is sure to never go out of style. It features a row of buttons down the front of the jacket and can be worn with either a bow tie or a long necktie.

double breasted tux for black tie event

Double-Breasted

The double-breasted jacket style of tuxedo is less common than the single-breasted but can be a good choice if you want something a bit more unique. It features two rows of buttons down the front of the jacket and is typically worn with a long necktie.

Shawl collar for black tie event

Shawl Collar

This type of tuxedo has a wide collar that wraps around the neck and is secured with a single button at the center. With midnight blue satin detailing, it is a good choice for those who want something a bit more relaxed than the traditional tuxedo.

When it comes to choosing a tuxedo, it is important to keep in mind what kind of event you will be attending. If you are going to a more formal event, it is important to choose a classic-style tuxedo. However, if you are attending a less formal event, you can have more fun with your choice of tuxedo.

Dinner Jacket for black tie event

Dinner Jacket

If you are looking for something a bit more relaxed than a tuxedo, you can opt for a dinner jacket, for example, a blue silk smoking jacket. A dinner jacket is similar to a sports coat and can be worn with dress pants or even jeans. This is a good choice for those who want to be comfortable while still looking stylish.

formal shirt for black tie event

Formal Shirting

When it comes to choosing a shirt for your black-tie event, it is important to choose one that is made of a formal fabric such as silk or cotton. You will also want to make sure that the shirt is well-tailored and fits you properly.

bow tie for black tie event

Bow Ties

If you are looking for something a bit more unique than a perfectly tied bow tie, you can wear black tie. A long necktie is a good choice for those who want something a bit more relaxed than a bow black tie optional. It is also a good choice for those who want to be able to tie their tie.

Formal shoes for black tie event

Formal Shoe

When it comes to choosing formal shoes, it is important to choose a pair that is made of a formal material such as leather. You will also want to make sure that the shoes are well-polished and fit you properly.

Formal Braces

Formal Braces

If you are looking for something a bit more unique than formal braces, you can opt for suspenders. Suspenders are a good choice for those who want something a bit more relaxed than braces. They are also a good choice for those who want to be able to adjust their clothing.

Formal Cufflinks And Studs

Formal Cufflinks And Studs

For something a bit more unique than cufflinks and studs, you can opt for buttons. Buttons are a good choice for those who want something a bit more relaxed than cufflinks and studs. They are also a good choice for those who want to be able to adjust their clothing.

What Not To Wear To A Black Tie Event

What Not To Wear To A Black Tie Event

There are a few things that you should avoid wearing to a black-tie event:

  • If you are not wearing a tuxedo or formal dinner jacket, you should not attend a black-tie event. This means that you should avoid wearing a suit, even if it is black.
  • Do not wear open-toed shoes or sneakers to a black-tie event. Open-toed shoes are not considered to be formal footwear and are not appropriate for a black-tie event.
  • Avoid jeans, shorts, T-shirts, and a tank top that can be black-tie formal wear and are not appropriate for a black-tie event.
  • Opened collar dress shirts without a bowtie or formal necktie should not be worn to a black-tie event. An opened collar dress shirt is considered to be too casual for a black-tie event.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re attending a wedding, charity ball, or formal theater event, dressing up in black-tie attire is the perfect way to show that you know how to class it up. For more information on what to wear – and what not to wear – to a black-tie event, be sure to check out our Flex Suit collection to select one of them.