How to Dress for a Black Tie Event
The words "black tie" on an invitation can induce anxiety and send an individual on a frantic search for the most expensive ensemble he or she can afford. Second only to "white tie" in the required level of formality, black tie indicates attendees are expected to wear elegant attire and adhere to an established dress code. While a little anxiety is to be expected, with the proper preparation, you will come to regard a black tie event as an opportunity to dress your best and experience a night of elegance. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Women's Attire
-
1
Wear a floor length formal gown, evening separate or a knee-length cocktail dress. Choose a dress that compliments your body type and avoid plunging necklines. Choose rich colors that compliment your skin tone. Although black is often considered elegant, do not feel limited to this color. Consider jewel tones such as red and deep blues, emeralds and purples, as well as, silvers, golds and pastels.
-
2
Select the appropriate undergarments for you dress. Wear a strapless bra or corset with bra if your dress is strapless or spaghetti strapped. Wear the appropriate support garments to ensure your dress is not ill fitting in any areas.
-
-
3
Arrange your hair into an elegant hairstyle. This includes an updo such as a bun, chignon or french twist. If wearing your hair down, make sure it is neat and clean. Consider the style of your dress before applying makeup. If your dress is ornate, opt for light makeup. Conversely, if your dress is simple, wear a bold eye or lip but not both.
-
4
Accessorize your dress with a matching bag and shoes that complement the color. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and if new, break them in well in advance of the event. For an ornate dress, select simple jewelry such as small earrings and a simple bracelet. For a simpler dress, choose one bold accessory such as dangling earrings, a dramatic necklace or jeweled bangles. Select jewelry made of real or convincingly fake gold, silver, precious stones or pearls.
Men's Attire
-
5
Select a white shirt with a wing or turn-down collar and pleated or piqué fronts. The shirt must also have stud eyelets and French cuffs for cufflinks.
-
6
Wear a single or double breasted jacket in black, midnight blue or white in summer months. Choose a jacket with a peaked lapel or shawl collar that has satin or grosgrain facing. Do no select a jacket with vents.
-
7
Wear trousers that are the same color and material as the jacket. However, when wearing a white jacket, wear black trousers and a black cummerbund. Select suspender-cut trousers with a single braid along the seams.
-
8
Select a black silk bow tie that matches the jacket's lapel facings. Wear black patent leather pumps or highly polished oxfords. Accessorize your suit with black silk over the calf hose; black or white silk suspenders; a white silk handkerchief; and black, gold or pearl studs and cufflinks.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consider the host of your event when deciding what to wear. A work event might require a more conservative look than a friend or family member's event.
If in doubt, ask another attendee what he or she plans to wear or if you are on friendly terms, consult the host of the event.
Consider purchasing your attire from a second hand store if you are on a budget. Second hand stores often have beautiful, high quality vintage and designer items for pennies on the dollar.
Have your clothes altered if necessary so that they fit you perfectly.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit evening gown image by Earl Robbins from Fotolia.com
