Black-tie optional is a standard wedding invitation dress
code that allows you to be creative while still adhering to more formal attire.
Discover how to dress for a black-tie wedding and other formal occasions.
What Does Black-Tie Optional Mean?
A black-tie optional event is one in which black-tie attire
is optional but dressy attire is required. Black-tie weddings require a black
tuxedo or full-length gown, whereas black-tie optional wedding attire does not
require a black suit.
Black-tie optional attire is still an invitation to dress up
in traditional black-tie attire if you so desire. If you choose not to meet
this standard, cocktail attire is required, with darker colors (such as
charcoals or navy blues) preferred.
Etiquette for Black-Tie Optional Weddings
Guests at black-tie optional weddings should try to wear a
classic black tuxedo if possible, but it is not required. The wedding party,
bride, and groom will typically dress in black-tie formal for this dress
designation, and it's an opportunity for their loved ones and guests to reflect
that style.
In any case, black tie is not required. If you do not intend
to wear an evening gown or tux, overdress in a dark suit or a longer-length
cocktail dress.
What to Wear to a Black-Tie Optional Wedding
Consider the following outfit possibilities for a black-tie
optional wedding or formal event:
1. Tuxedo with black tie: A black-tie ensemble denotes a
full tuxedo with a few key pieces. The most important items are the matching
black trousers and jacket, as well as a white tuxedo shirt, which differs from
a white button-down shirt in that it has pleats and slits for cufflinks. A
black bow tie, a cross tie, or an ascot can be worn.
2. Black-tie dress: If you intend to wear a dress, choose
one made of a nicer fabric and in a darker color. The gown should be
floor-length, and it should be accessorized with pearls, gloves, and high
heels.
3. Cocktail attire: It's fine if you don't want to dress
formally”where that's the word "optional" in "black-tie
optional" comes into play. To blend in with the color palette, consider
wearing a three-piece suit with a tie or a more conservative cocktail dress,
preferably in a darker shade.
6 Wedding Dress Codes
Wedding invitations may include a variety of dress codes.
Because most are formal events, there will be specific attire requirements.
Here are some examples of dress codes:
1. Beach formal: This is a more common dress code for summer
weddings, particularly those held on or near a beach. Beach formal invites
colorful and brighter, lighter linen or cotton dresses and suits with a less
strict formality. Floral prints or nautical outfits, such as ties with lobster
patterns, can make for a fun, semiformal event.
2. Black-tie: The most formal designation is black-tie. Men
traditionally wear a tuxedo, which consists of a black dinner jacket, formal
trousers, and a white tuxedo shirt with tux accoutrements (such as a
cummerbund, black bow tie, white pocket square, black dress shoes, and
cufflinks). Darker evening gowns are the equivalent of this formalwear.
3. Optional black tie: A black-tie optional wedding is still
a formal wedding, but one in which a black suit is not required. You are not
required to wear a tuxedo or wear black. Nonetheless, it is always preferable
to appear overdressed and to inquire about the attire of other guests.
4. Business casual: A less formal dress code that allows
guests to experiment with color and style more freely. People may dress in
pantsuits, cocktail dresses, or bright suits.
5. Festive: Wedding attire that is casual or festive is uncommon. Evening gowns and ties are not required for this dress code, but guests may wear suit jackets, khakis, or sundresses.
6. White tie: A type of formal attire similar to black tie, but the color of the ensemble differs. Those in tuxedos should wear a white tuxedo with a white bow tie, while those in dresses should wear formal, floor-length gowns.
