What to Wear for a Black Tie Event

Although common sense usually does the trick, finding the right accessories for a black-tie event can be challenging. It's easy to underestimate the event or be unfamiliar with the men's dress code. So, let's clarify what you need to wear. 

What is the Men's Dress Code at a Black-Tie Event?

Black tie attire for men is considered a step above cocktail attire. Generally, it includes a black tuxedo jacket with satin or grosgrain lapels, matched with black dress trousers featuring a satin or grosgrain stripe down the leg. You must also wear a crisp white dress shirt paired with a black bow tie, complemented by black dress shoes (usually patent leather) and black dress socks. Depending on the event, other accessories may include a cummerbund or waistcoat, cufflinks, and a pocket square. This tuxedo-based black tie dress code is reserved for the most formal evening events.

Always wear a black or dark navy suit to a black-tie event. It is classic, versatile and the best colour for these events. Moreover, this suit can be used all year round and combined with almost anything, except perhaps wearing a matching navy-blue tie with a navy-blue suit. In choosing the fitting coloured shirt, always wear a crisp, white shirt with no coloured patterns or details, as a black-tie event is simple and elegant and contains an abundance of the classic simple colours of black, navy and white.

The suit should be sober and straightforward, too. As for the fabric, always choose a wool-based suit or even a wool blend because it is comfortable, does not wrinkle, and has a relatively easy appearance to maintain without pressing it often. Wool is one of the most hygienic and breathable fabrics, too. The best way to style a black or navy suit with accessories is to follow one rule for a black tie event - keep it simple: a white shirt and black shoes, for example. You can also add a handkerchief in the outer pocket of the jacket.

We've covered the basics, and onto the details.

How to Dress for a Black-Tie Event

The Suit Jacket

A jacket or blazer is essential to attend a black-tie event. Should a black-tie event be held during the day (this is rare, but it can still happen), black or navy suits are still appropriate, given the formal nature of the event. Still, you could inject an element of lightness somewhere in the outfit, such as with a white bow tie instead of black. If the event is in the evening, the most common time for a black-tie event, always opt for dark colours such as black, navy and dark burgundy.

The nature of any event changes when it is in the evening. In this case, always keep it formal with dark colours to exude elegance.

The Shirt 

The classic, crisp white shirt is always best for any black tie event. Given the simple elegance of these kinds of events, avoid coloured shirts or shirts with patterns. If you want to be unconventional and infuse some patterns, only opt for subtle prints or fine stripes with absolute discretion. The same applies to the shirt's collar size: if it protrudes above the jacket, opt for something that sits well under a suit jacket and doesn't draw too much attention. Simple is always better.

Choose a solid-coloured shirt to maintain formality and avoid the work or executive look. Of course, if you are an expert, you could play with subtle and non-traditional shirts, as long as they're very subtle and you avoid wearing them with a printed blazer.

Tie or Bow Tie

Choosing between a tie or a bowtie requires time and experimenting with your preference, as this accessory is usually the outfit's focus at a black-tie event. The velvet bow tie bursts into the scene with full force, and various rich colours and designs exist. However, it is essential to ask whether it complements your suit jacket. Are you comfortable wearing a velvet bow tie? In men with longer necks, the velvet bow tie can be flattering, given the plush, rich nature of the material, which balances out the look. A black velvet bow tie is always a safe bet if you're experimenting with velvet styles for the first time. The black velvet bow tie would do the trick, especially for a black-tie event that usually demands the classic black bow tie.

The classic black tie is the most traditional accessory, especially in black. You can always choose subtle prints as long as the suit jacket and the shirt do not have any patterns. Moreover, you can go for classic tie fabrics and trial different widths that suit your body and suit.

The Shoes

You must spend time selecting an appropriate shoe for a black-tie event. In addition to being comfortable, the boots at night must be a dark shade of black or very dark brown. With or without laces does not matter much, as it is a detail that has little impact on the overall look. It's usually easier to choose the right shoes after you've decided on the shirt, suit, tie or bow tie, and any cufflinks or pocket squares.  

Other Accessories 

Finally, have fun with the accessories. You don't always have to wear a lapel pin and a handkerchief in your pocket. Still, this is the way to go if you want to add subtle elements to your outfit at the black-tie event. A well-dressed man should know how to use quality accessories, too. Therefore, you must consider the type of accessory to wear that will stay focused on the critical elements of the look but add a touch of style.

Find a distinguished pair of cufflinks to finish the ensemble. Cufflinks create style and add a touch of elegance to your attire. Every man should wear cufflinks in events where formal clothes are required. They express grace without looking too out there or being distracted.

A pocket square in the jacket's upper pocket distinguishes the gentleman from the crowd. It may be in the same tone as the tie at a black-tie event or something that complements it. Be careful when folding it, choosing the right fold that's simple and elegant. Never use it unless required by a lady. 

Finally, if you are accompanied to the event, try to complement your look with your partner's outfit. It may be just the tie or the colour of the handkerchief. Still, it is an excellent detail that usually draws attention.

If you want to know how a man should dress for a black-tie event, follow these tips.

Knowing what kind of celebration will occur is imperative when deciding what ensemble to wear to a black-tie event. 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. However, it is essential to be yourself and enjoy the event while adequately dressed for the occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What not to wear to a black-tie event?

Do not wear casual attire such as jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers to a black tie event; these are considered inappropriate for the formal dress code.

Can you wear a normal suit to a black-tie event?

Generally, no. A normal business suit is unsuitable for a black-tie event. Black tie attire requires a tuxedo or a more formal suit.

What colours are acceptable for black tie?

For black tie events, men should wear classic and subdued colours such as black, midnight blue, and occasionally dark shades of charcoal or deep burgundy.

What is the difference between formal attire and black tie?

Formal attire generally refers to a broader range of dress codes, including black tie, as one category. A black tie requires a tuxedo with a black bow tie and is more formal than other formal attire.