Black Tie Optional Dress Code - For Men (2024)

FAQs

Black Tie Optional Dress Code - For Men? ›

The “optional” in Black Tie Optional means you'll still be dressed in formal menswear – just not necessarily a traditional tuxedo. You can branch out into dark colored suits as well, preferably in shades of black, navy or charcoal. Dark suits with a subtle pattern can be a smart way to play with the dress code.

The “optional” in Black Tie Optional means you'll still be dressed in formal menswear – just not necessarily a traditional tuxedo. You can branch out into dark colored suits as well, preferably in shades of black, navy or charcoal. Dark suits with a subtle pattern can be a smart way to play with the dress code.

What's a Classic Black Tie Outfit for Men? For the modern man, the standard outfit for the black tie dress code consists of the following: a black/dark blue tuxedo, a white tuxedo shirt, a black silk bow tie, a cumme*rbund or waistcoat, patent shoes and a white pocket square.

Colors to Wear and Avoid

For black-tie optional, try dark colors such as black, navy and charcoal, and deeper jewel tones like emerald and burgundy. Avoid anything too light or bright, and generally, follow our advice about what not to wear as a wedding guest.

You'll need a dark suit in navy or charcoal grey. Go lighter in color, and you'll break the dress code (officially). In addition to your dark suit, you'll want to keep the rest of your outfit elevated and conservative. Try a white dress shirt, a black necktie with a white pocket square, and black dress shoes.

FORMAL/ BLACK TIE OPTIONAL: The wording here indicates something slightly less formal than black-tie is acceptable. So, a tuxedo isn't required, but the event is still formal enough for one to be appropriate. The choices are the same as with black-tie: a floor-length gown, a fancy co*cktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit.

Opt for a dark suit

Wearing a dark suit is the best option if you don't own a tux. If you don't own a tux, the chances are that you probably already own a navy or blue suit. To ensure that you are somewhat following the dress code, try and make sure that the hue of your suit is a very dark blue or navy.

No, a cumme*rbund isn't a necessary accessory to combine with a tuxedo. Despite its history, it's actually a fairly recent addition to the tuxedo ensemble, and one that isn't as important as your bow tie or pocket square.

Black patent leather shoes are the standard choice for black tie events. Avoid wearing casual or colorful footwear, such as sneakers or loafers, as they will undermine the overall elegance and formality of the outfit.

Every colour is acceptable and there are some fantastic, jewel tones out there just screaming the right level of opulence for a fancy occasion. Don't rule out prints either; Erdem's floral silks and Richard Quinn's bold patterns are perfect for a black tie event.

Can I wear a navy suit to a black-tie optional? ›

A navy suit is a versatile and stylish choice for a black tie optional wedding. It's a bit less formal than a black tuxedo but still looks sharp and sophisticated. Pair it with a crisp white dress shirt, a navy tie or bow tie, and black dress shoes.

Unlike a traditional black tie dress code, no colors are off limits (except white, of course), so choose something that reflects the wedding and makes you feel your best! For black tie optional weddings in colder months or the evening, darker colors are typically the way to go.

A well - fitted blazer paired with dress pants can give off a professional and polished look without the formality of a full suit . 2 . Dress shirt and trousers : Opt for a crisp , tailored dress shirt paired with dress trousers for a sophisticated and put - together look .

You don't have to worry about being over- or underdressed, because you know exactly what to wear: a black tuxedo, a black bow tie, white shirt (wing tip or fold-down collar—more on that later), and black shoes—usually patent leather. The whole ensemble should be black and white, more or less.

What not to wear to a black tie event? Black tie events are formal affairs that require you to be suitably dressed. You should't wear casual clothing such as jeans, T-shirts, shorts, jumpers and trainers. It's also best to avoid suits that aren't black (or dark blue) and patterned ties or shirts.

If you're wearing a tux, that means the event is pretty formal or there's a specific dress code. If the dress code is black tie, wear a bow tie. If it's a little more laid-back (black tie optional, creative black tie, or a more casual event) you're clear to wear a necktie.

A blazer or sport coat is a great way to step up a business casual, co*cktail attire or dressy casual look, but it isn't suited for a black-tie optional event.

BLACK TIE POCKET SQUARES

An addition of a square will help to visually break up the, mostly, black look and help draw attention to design features such as the lapels. For a classic look, opt for a white linen pocket square and conservatively fold it into a flat fold.