How to Dress for "Black Tie"

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By janetarfin
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Article Rating: (5 Ratings)

James Bond always looked smart.

The invitation says to dress "Black Tie", but what does it mean? How to avoid some common Black Tie mistakes and look really sharp at the party.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

For Men:
A Tux (or Dinner Jacket as it's called in Britain)
Bow tie and cummerbund
Shirt studs and cuff links if needed
Shiny black shoes
For Women:
Full length or tea length evening dress (please don't call it a gown)
small evening handbag
appropriate shoes and jewelry

Step 1

A Black Tie event is a formal affair. Follow some simple rules and you will always look elegant.

For the man: A well tailored black Tuxedo. (The British call this a dinner jacket, which I think is lovely) Most men in the U.S. don't own a tux, so when you rent one, give yourself time to make the right decision. There are many unusual variations available but they look faddish. Stick with the classic tux and you can't go wrong.
An exception might be a kilt as it is classic but you'd really need a lot of confidence to get away it.

Gents, if you really want to impress a girl, learn to tie a bow tie!
Step 2

Tartan cummerbund from www.scotchcorner.com

A white formal shirt with tucks, simple shirt studs and cuff links, and a cummerbund and bow tie complete the black tie look.
The cummerbund can be colorful, and there are many varieties in silk. It originated in India, so it can be quite splendid. If you don't have a matching bow tie, wear a black one.
Step 3

Brooks Brother's Tuxedo Pumps from www.blacktieguide.com

Don't forget to polish those shiny black shoes! If you want to look very European, you can even wear Tuxedo pumps.
Step 4

For the Ladies:

NO Pant suits!! Save the dressy pant suits for the cocktail parties. This is your opportunity to wear full length or tea length evening dresses. You and your tuxedo clad date will catch everyone's eye.
Since many formal dresses are quite baring, make sure they fit properly, and you are wearing the correct undergarments. There is nothing more off putting than someone spilling out of her ill fitting dress!

Leave your shoulder bag at home, and carry a small clutch. Your shoes should compliment your dress. Of course heels always look nice, but for those who cannot wear high heels a floor length dress and a pair of dressy ballet flats can look lovely.
Step 5

Ladies, here are two easy rules for you.
1. No watches after five o'clock (unless it's masquerading as a diamond bracelet, and I do mean BRACELET!)
2. Put on all the jewelry you plan to wear, and take one piece off. Remember, you are going for elegance, not ostentation. Leave the tiara for the bride!
Step 6

If you dress well, and feel elegant, you can enjoy that formal, black tie party without worrying about your appearance. You will look wonderful in all the photos, and not end up on anyone's "worst dressed list"!!