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I’d instead opt for a white one that matches the shirt instead. It’s more classic and will rein in the forward-fashion look with something conventional. All the above retailers have options for both black tie and business suits. Any event that’s otherwise black tie can become black tie-optional if the host decides it to be so. These could be weddings, evening celebrations for religious rites of passage like communions and bar-mitzvahs, and even certain galas. In terms of accessories, a pocket square and a watch are the most common choices.
The tux combo should have a white tuxedo vest and dress shirt underneath. Light-colored gloves and formal dress shoes, usually black oxfords, pull the look together. Long story short, my husband lost a lot of weight and the new jacket he had simply does not fit. The black tie optional wedding is tomorrow and we are miles from home. He has a gorgeous deep burgundy grape shirt and matching tie, good black dress slacks and new black dress shoes.
What is Black-tie Optional Attire for a Wedding? – Your Wedding Guests’ FAQs5 min read
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Second, it’s important to dress appropriately for the season. A floor-length gown might be too warm in the summer, while a tuxedo might be too chilly in the winter. Finally, it’s always a good idea to check with the bride and groom to see if they have any specific dress requirements. While many love a great gown moment, you might prefer a crisp and stylish tuxedo.
Only wear a cocktail dress if it’s very formal.
After all, no one wants to show up to a black tie wedding wearing khakis. Most guests will dress in an evening dress or a dark suit or tuxedo. Because “formal” is a fairly broad category, you can always reach out to the wedding couple or a member of the wedding party for some clarification on what they expect guests to wear. Wedding stylist Cynthia Smith is also anti “optional” anything when it comes to the dress code.
Whether you’re searching for a formal tuxedo or semi-formal suit for your winter wedding attire, Sudhakar also suggests turning to wool. You can get away with something like medium grey in a pinch, but it’s best to stick to the dark colors we outlined previously. A simple square or puff fold will be in keeping with the formality of the evening. A single-breasted suit is perfectly acceptable as Black-Tie Optional Attire as its simple silhouette will call to mind the elegant lines of a dinner jacket.
Dress Codes Explained
Guests can look for inspiration from films or celebrities, depending on the theme. The most formal types of black-tie affairs include prestigious soirees such as state dinners, business awards, and formal evening weddings. In such circumstances, refined guests will display their respect for their hosts by choosing attire that meets the requirements of proper black tie. Better yet, they will opt for classic black tie, the highest possible standard for the dinner jacket. Black is always a safe bet for formal attire but if you prefer to stand out you do have a few options. Deep, inky navy or midnight blue makes for handsome choice.
And because the term “cocktail dress” is used widely in fashion to describe a fancier dress you’d wear out, let’s keep this explanation simple. Cocktail attire is a simplified version of formal with a slightly more playful spirit. In no way does this dress code mean “casual” of any kind. It’s swanky, so show up in an ensemble that looks like you match the formal energy of the wedding party.
What time should an evening wedding reception start?
You can wear a floor-length gown, a creative suit in a luxe material, or even opt for a sleek jumpsuit in a jewel tone. Have fun with it and wear whatever you feel is fancy but also makes sense for you. A dinner suit is also acceptable for black-tie wedding attire. Dapper smoking jackets in velvet or textured materials can add flair to the attire while a traditional silk-lapel dinner jacket is the traditional choice. Pants should be well-tailored with a fitted silhouette that doesn't appear too clingy.
Some women might consider black tie to be an event where they need to wear a formal dress or a suit. Others might consider it to be a more casual event where they can wear a cocktail dress or a dressy pantsuit. The bottom line is that there aren’t really any hard and fast rules, so it’s best to use your best judgment. White dress shirts and black neckties are usually the most popular choices for men attending a black tie wedding.
