Black Tie Attire For Men: Special Event & Wedding Outfits
Its understandable if black tie attire for men seems stuffy and dated . Spend five minutes checking out our modern black tie attire recs, and well change your mind.
The black tie dress code is one of the few that has a strict set of rules. The test? Following black tie dress code etiquette. Lucky for you, we have your black tie attire cheat sheet right here. Need to understand the ins and outs of the black tie attire dress code for wedding ceremonies and receptions? We got you. Need simple outfit ideas that follow the black tie dress code for men? Keep scrolling, friend.
For more information on dress codes, check out our full guide here.
The Basics: Things You Should Consider
Chances are, you are not invited to a ton of formal events and galas.
However, you are likely to be invited to a good number of weddings in your life. Now that is an opportunity to look extraordinary, putting on your most formal wedding attire, currently resting in your wardrobe.
But most men sweat, wondering where they will dig up something nice enough for the big day.
To some, it may send you running to the local tuxedo rental place, looking for something appropriate to wear.
If that describes you, please consider reading the whole article before you make up your mind.
In the end, owning a wedding attire that fits you perfectly might save you a lot of trouble in the future.
Am I Required To Wear A Tux
While black-tie attire does not intrinsically mandate donning a tuxedo, it’s usually the preferred option. This simplifies the process of cultivating an appropriate outfit piece by piece and automatically ensures you’ll fit in with the other guests or wedding party. If you don’t already own one, there are plenty of options to rent a tux for the occasion.
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What Is White Tie Attire For A Man
Because white tie is a very traditional type of attire, you wouldnt dress up a pre-tied bow tie or a shirt without them. When a man seeks to achieve a successful white tie appearance, he should wear black pants with a matching jacket or coat, with tails at the back of the knee that reach up.
A few important rules must be followed when dressing for a formal event. White ties, in general, are the most formal of all dress codes and necessitate the most sophisticated and elegant attire. The shoe is the most important part of a white tie ensemble. In addition to patent leather opera pumps with bows and plain patent leather oxfords or derby shoes, the only footwear options for a white tie are patent leather opera pumps with bows or plain patent leather oxfords or derby shoes. An outfit created with these shoes will instantly give it a polished appearance. A dark solid color tie is also required in a white tie ensemble, as is the right shoes. burgundy ties are excellent for both formal and more casual occasions because they go well with both. Wearing a tie with a crisp white shirt and a classic dinner jacket will complete the look. With the right combination of elements, your formal appearance will be unforgettable.
Cocktail Wedding Attire For Men
The next step up on the formal ladder from semi-formal and dressy casual is cocktail, a wedding dress code invented in the 1950s thats midway between elegant and comfortable. Cocktail wedding attire for men isnt as formal as black tie optional or formal, but you should still look elegant and polished. Men should wear a suit and tie and not overthink it.
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Formal Wedding Attire For Men
Formal is probably one of the most popular wedding dress codes and for good reason a wedding is a formal affair after all, and should be treated as such. Formal wedding attire for men means one step down from black tie, but just one! Men are not required to wear tuxedos, but if youd like to you wouldnt necessarily be out of place. When it doubt, go with a dark suit thats been well-tailored. You can also experiment with a nice colorful suit jacket and a bold pocket square. Youll also want to go with some nice formal or oxford shoes.
What Should Men Wear To A Spring Wedding
Its best not to view a Spring wedding the same as a Fall one. The mood and colors are very different. Depending on where you are, the weather may be, too. In fact, some places may already benefit from a lighter fabric for your suit, like linen, to avoid sweating. If the wedding is outdoors, you can already bring in paler colors, like dove grey suits and pastel shirts were appropriate for the dress code. Keep it lighter and more hopeful than Fall, but also gentle and soothing.
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White Tie: Formal Dress For Special Occasions
When it comes to formal attire, the white tie is the most opulent and reserved of all dress codes. Traditional evening wear is typically worn after six oclock or after sundown. Although a white tie is an appropriate choice for a black tie event, it is critical to remember that you will be looking more formal than the rest of the guests. When it comes to adhering to the white tie dress code, its best to wear black pants with a matching coat and tails that reach the back of your knee. Furthermore, keep in mind that any bowties or shirts without a stud or cufflink should be pre-tied. It is acceptable to wear a white tie to a wedding if the occasion calls for it, but it is typically too formal.
Can You Wear A Normal Suit To A Black Tie Event
As mentioned previously in this article, as long as you follow certain rules, you can wear a normal black suit. Generally it’s not recommended, but if you’re desperate and can’t get a tuxedo in time, then make sure you follow the rest of the important rules.
Also, please be aware, that some Black Tie Events may have a very strict Tuxedo dress code, so if you want to wear a normal suit, or if you only have a normal suit, then you can wear a nice white shirt and a black bowtie, and you’ll be fine but don’t:
- Its important that you dont wear a suit that doesnt fit the occasion, so steer clear of any overly bright suits or blazers, yellow, orange etc. Its not the time to experiment.
- Go without asking, make sure if you’re not wearing the exact definition of “black tie” that it’s acceptable to wear something different.
A perfect example of a suit that would be perfect for a black tie event, and fits the attire style perfectly, is a Kired x IsuiT suit. Read more about these suits here:
These suits are made for modern men, and include elasticated trousers. Make sure you follow the black tie dress code that we laid out in this article.
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Black Tie Attire For Women
The black-tie dress code is pretty straightforward for men, but with the numerous options for a woman on the market, it is difficult to decide if the dress or outfit you love is within the bounds of a black-tie dress code.
Primarily for women, black-tie dressing means a floor-length gown. For a wedding, the color of the dress is essential to take into account as well. For instance, it is in poor taste for anyone to wear white to a wedding unless specifically asked by the bride.
Many women will need or to wear heels with their black-tie-appropriate floor-length gown. Remember that a black-tie wedding, dinner, and reception will usually last a few hours, so it might be a good idea to either wear comfortable shoes first or pack some flats for dancing in your bag!
And about the bag, it is acceptable and expected for women to carry some bag or purse with them to the wedding for immediate needs. Most venues will offer a coat check for sweaters, purses, jackets, or other items you might like to store during the ceremony.
Putting Together Your Suit Ensemble
There is nothing wrong with wearing a suit to a black–tie optional event. But youll still want to think about the type of ensemble you put together. Since the event is most likely in the evening, its a safe bet to stick with a darker color. While you cant go wrong with black, dont be afraid to step out of the box with charcoal gray or navy blue. Avoid brown, which some consider a country look that is best kept to rustic or boho events held in the daytime. You also want to play it safe with solid-colored suits. A Black tie optional event is not the best time to experiment with bold patterns. But feel free to go with two pieces or three in your suit, and it can be single or double-breasted.
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Match Your Wedding Attire By Season
Each season offers an opportunity for amazing seasonal weather. If the weather is cooperating, it can provide an amazing ambiance for a dream wedding.
The weather can also help you decide what to wear the material of your suit matters for the time of the year. Let the season help determine how you rise to the dress code occasion!
Classic Solid Black Tie
Do you want a stylish and quality tie to wear with your formal shirt for the black tie wedding? If yes, the Classic Solid Black Tie by Nimble is a perfect pick. The solid black tie is a perfect choice for any formal event, including weddings, and it pairs well with a white dress shirt.
You can put on a solid, slim necktie with a formal shirt for a formal evening event and enjoy your classy look. Besides black tie weddings, you can wear the tie in other events such as funerals, formal dinner parties, and galas.
The tie has a polyester material construction that makes it classy and long-lasting. The material also makes it easy to clean. Its slim design also enhances its choice as a formal wear. Ensure you wear it with a fitting shirt, dinner jacket, or tuxedo.
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Suitsupply Washington Tuxedo Suit In Navy
Dark navy is also an appropriate color choice for black-tie functions. The tuxedo suit, crafted from S110’s wool by Vitale Barberis Canonico, is a luxurious option for fall or winter upscale affairs. It features a silk-covered peak lapel, silk-lined jetted pockets and lightly padded shoulders to seal the deal.
Do: Take Advantage Of The Opportunity To Go All Out
For most people, events that require black-tie wedding attire are few and far between, so Padilla suggests embracing the opportunity to get dressed up. In other words, always go with fancier optionfor example, go for the full-length gown instead of the black cocktail dress you could wear to almost any occasion. Guys, opt for a navy or black tux with a matching waistcoat or cummerbund rather than trying to get away with a casual dark suit option, she says. You dont want to be the couple who did the least standing next to the couple that chose to embrace the full black tie dress code in pictures.
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Dont Always Bet On Black
A midnight blue dinner jacket might seem outré in this day and age, but its more historically accurate. Plus, it gets darker when the sun goes down.
Midnight blue turns very black, while black can actually turn more of a dusty grey, especially mohair blends, says Cundey. Midnight blue will typically look darker and richer.
What To Wear To A Black Tie Wedding
If you receive an invitation that names the dress code as black-tie wedding attire, it is proper and respectful to do your best to adhere to the request as closely as possible. Usually, a black-tie wedding is an evening affair, so costuming according to the dress code while planning for cooler evening air is essential.
The main things to consider when deciding what to wear to a black-tie wedding are:
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Can I Wear Boots To A Black Tie Event
The simple answer to whether you can wear boots to a black tie event is no. Boots are generally more casual, although you can get a wide variety of sophisticated or fashion-forward styles. Boots should not be worn with tuxedos, and the two styles will ultimately clash. A better option for a black tie event would be to wear patent leather shoes, such as oxfords or brogues.
Where To Buy A Tux
Recently aligned with Nordstrom to help increase their customer service and accessibility, The Black Tux is an online tuxedo rental and purchasing service available throughout the US. They are committed to embracing convenience and modernity in the tux game, with in-house fit specialists who review your sizes and preferences to send you a tuxedo at least two weeks before your event.
The website offers all of the expected variety in tuxedo styles, as well as regular suits, shirts, and accessories for your needs in other areas. To help address any concerns about fit, The Black Tux has a variety of its own brick and mortar sites around the country where you can go and meet with a member of their team.
In addition, the recent partnership with Nordstrom includes the ability to use select Nordstrom locations as an extension of their physical presence. All in all, the team at The Black Tux is doing some great things to modernize the tux rental game.
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Bhldn Dylan Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress In Dark Emerald
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. Accessorize with a pair of dressy heeled sandals and a coordinating clutch.
Fame & Partners Olsen Dress In Navy
The best thing about Fame and Partners’ beautiful designs is that they’re tailored to your exact measurements. For example, this lovely navy number is available as a knee-length dress or formal maxi. For black-tie wedding dress codes, we suggest the formal maxi length. Other standout features include the ruffled neckline and backline and the skirt’s elegant side slit.
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Attire By Wedding Theme
If youre new to weddings, theres a surprisingly wide array of wedding themes that are actually incorporated into the wedding attire and decor. Weve covered the most popular wedding themes below, but there are so many different ways a couple could go. Work with the details you have to use a weddings theme to choose your look.
Black Tie Wedding Hair And Makeup
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- There is no rule cast in stone for black tie wedding hairstyles or make-up. But keep your make-up clean with, red or nude lips and smokey looks. You dont want your face to look a riot and attract undue attention.
- For the hairstyles, classic chignons, thick braids, artfully twisted buns, and sleek straight ponytails are perfect. Dont over-accessorize your hair because the outfit is already doing a lot.
Enjoy a night of opulence, splendor, charm, and sophistication at the black-tie wedding event, even as you hold your own. Stand out with our carefully curated outfit, venue, food menu, and decor ideas. If youre confused about how to plan the day or when to start, we answered all your questions too. So check out our ideas and get inspired for the big day.
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Norma Kamali X Revolve Halter Turtle Size Slit Gown In Black
Sleek and sophisticated, this black-tie-approved wedding guest dress is a real stunner. With a chic mock neckline, a fitted silhouette and a tasteful side slit, you’ll look forward to wearing this sophisticated frock. Accessorize with statement earrings and sparkly heels to elevate your black-tie wedding outfit.
Wearing Red To A Formal Affair: Whats The Deal
This dated fashion rule was originally put into place during more conservative times when red was thought to be a way-too-sexy, attention-stealing color. Sure, you might want to stay away from wearing a skin-tight red plunging spandex gown to a wedding or black-tie affair, but in this case, the color isnt the reason why. These days, there are plenty of high-style red dresses that are perfectly acceptable as formal wear. Celebrities often wear red gowns that look elegant and classic, so go ahead and don a red hot look yourself.
A good rule of thumb: Choose red gowns that are made from rich silky fabrics like chiffon or organza, as opposed to shiny satin or anything too stretchy and always keep embellishments to a minimum.
Courtesy of h:ours.
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