How to Wear a Women's Suit at a Black Tie Optional Event

At a black tie optional event you can even wear a suit, if you wear it right.

An invitation to a black tie optional event allows a bit more flexibility in attire, although it is still considered appropriate to wear very formal attire. Even at a black tie optional event, it's not uncommon for men to be wearing black tie and women to be sporting ball gowns. That being said, it's also appropriate for a woman to wear an evening suit to a black tie optional event. After all, Marlene Dietrich was the first to wear a tux to a formal event and it's been cutting edge ever since. With a few style pointers you can wear a women's suit to a black tie optional party and be the belle of the ball.

Things You'll Need

• Women's suit
• Accessories

Instructions

1. Choose an evening suit in an appropriate fabric. Formal fabrics like satin, silk, gabardine all work. You can even choose a men's style tuxedo.

2. Wear evening shoes that are feminine and dressy like strappy sandals in satin or velvet, or a patent leather spiked heel.

3. Wear bright, flashy costume jewelry to accessorize the suit. Popcorn pearls, vintage gold chains, or even a jeweled tiara will give the suit some extra flair.

4. Choose to wear a sexy camisole or a lace or cashmere tank top under the suit. It's feminine and unexpected.

5. Wear a faux mink stole or a gold wrap over the suit as an added splash of formality.

References

• Advanced Etiquette: What To Wear?
• Martha Stewart Weddings: Guest attire
• Evening Wear Guide: Women's Tuxedo