Black Tie Dress Code: Complete Guide
The black tie dress code represents formal evening attire—the second most formal dress code after white tie. Understanding black tie requirements ensures you arrive appropriately dressed for galas, formal weddings, charity events, and prestigious celebrations. As etiquette expert Dorothea Johnson notes, 'Black tie is about honoring the occasion and showing respect through your appearance.'
What Is Black Tie?
Black tie is a formal dress code typically requested for evening events starting after 6 PM. According to Vogue, it calls for tuxedos for men and floor-length gowns or elegant cocktail dresses for women.
Black Tie for Women
Floor-Length Gowns
The classic choice—an elegant gown in silk, satin, velvet, or other luxurious fabrics. According to ELLE, floor-length remains the most traditional and always-appropriate choice.
Elegant Midi or Tea-Length
Modern black tie allows for sophisticated shorter lengths in luxurious fabrics with formal details—sequins, beading, or architectural design.
Formal Separates
A formal blouse with wide-leg evening trousers or a formal skirt can work for black tie, particularly in a modern tuxedo-inspired silhouette.
Black Tie for Men
According to GQ, men's black tie requirements include: black tuxedo with satin lapels, white dress shirt with French cuffs, black bow tie, black patent leather shoes, and optional black cummerbund or vest.
Colors for Black Tie
- Classic black: Always appropriate
- Jewel tones: Emerald, sapphire, ruby red
- Navy and midnight blue: Elegant alternatives
- Metallics: Gold, silver for statement
- Avoid: White (unless specifically allowed), neon, casual colors
Black Tie Accessories
According to Harper's Bazaar, black tie accessories should be elegant and polished: small clutch or evening bag, statement jewelry (but not costume), strappy heels or elegant pumps, and optional formal wrap or stole.
Black Tie Variations
- Black Tie Optional: Formal wear encouraged but dark suits acceptable for men
- Creative Black Tie: Allows fashion-forward interpretation
- Black Tie Preferred: Strong suggestion for traditional formal wear
FAQ: Black Tie Questions
Can I wear a short dress to black tie?
Yes, if it is sufficiently formal—luxurious fabric, elegant design, and sophisticated styling. Knee-length or midi cocktail dresses in appropriate fabrics are acceptable for most modern black tie events.
What shoes for black tie?
Elegant heels, strappy sandals, or formal flats in silk, satin, or metallic finishes. Avoid casual shoes, heavy platforms, or overly chunky styles.
Find Your Black Tie Look
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