How to Nail the Dress Code at a Black-Tie Optional Wedding (2024)

As a guest, picking out some fancy new attire is part of the fun of attending a wedding. There's just one little thing you have to take care of first, and that's understanding the wedding dress code. If you've been invited to a black-tie optional wedding, you might be feeling a little unsure of exactly what that means for your wardrobe, as this tends to be one of the least straightforward dress codes. The good news is that we're breaking down the meaning and etiquette rules of the elusive dress code right here so you'll never be confused again. Not only that, but we're sharing some of the top examples of what to wear for both men and women, including black-tie optional dresses, jumpsuits, tuxedos and suits.

In this article:

• What Does Black-Tie Optional Mean?
• The Etiquette Rules of Black-Tie Optional Attire
• Our Favorite Black-Tie Optional Dresses and Jumpsuits
• Our Favorite Black-Tie Optional Tuxedos and Suits

What Does Black-Tie Optional Mean?

So, what is black-tie optional? The dress code isn't as confusing as it sounds (we promise!). It means that guests have the option of wearing their most formal attire (think: an evening gown or tuxedo) but may also choose to wear a formal suit or co*cktail dress instead. Generally, a black-tie optional dress code means that the couple and their wedding party will be dressed in black tie. It's therefore courteous for guests to reflect this level of formality in their own attire.

One thing to keep in mind: A black-tie-optional dress code can sometimes appear differently on wedding invitations. Some couples write "black-tie invited" or "black-tie encouraged" instead. Typically, both of these terms mean that the to-be-weds really want their guests to wear a tux or full-length gown, but will also accept formal suits and dresses (especially if it's a daytime reception, which allows for a little more freedom). An evening black-tie optional wedding definitely calls for the dress code's most formal attire.

The Etiquette Rules of Black-Tie Optional Attire

Still have some questions about how to dress for a black-tie optional wedding? That's what we're here for! One of the biggest FAQs is dress length. Unlike a wedding that's strictly black tie, full-length evening gowns are preferred but aren't the only way to go. A midi-length dress is also acceptable—just avoid anything above the knee as it will be too casual.

Another etiquette rule guests are often unsure of is the type of jacket to wear with their dress pants. Historically, the biggest difference between black-tie optional and black-tie is that tuxedo jackets are mandatory for the latter. For a black-tie optional wedding, it's acceptable to swap out the tuxedo jacket for a structured suit jacket and understated tie. No matter which you decide to go for, darker hues such as black, navy and charcoal, and deeper jewel tones, like emerald and burgundy, are preferred.

Finally, wedding guest jumpsuits are another gray area for guests seeking out black-tie optional wedding attire. Ultimately, whether or not a jumpsuit is acceptable depends on the style. Avoid anything that feels a little too laid back (for example, patterns and brightly colored fabrics) and instead opt for something tailored and elevated. We've included a couple of stylish options below to help inspire you.

Our Favorite Black-Tie Optional Dresses and Jumpsuits

Whether you're ready to start shopping or just looking for inspiration, you've come to the right place. We know where to find all the best dresses and jumpsuits for a black-tie optional wedding. Keep reading to see some of our favorite styles for any and all upcoming celebrations.

Sachin & Babi Jenny Gown in Washed Indigo

If you're leaning more toward "black tie" than "optional," this stunning gown is a great choice. The pretty indigo hue is eye-catching, while the puffed crescent sleeves exude elegance. The empire waist, A-line skirt and side slit complete this breathtaking black-tie optional ensemble.

Love by Theia Floral V-Neck Gown in Multicolor Floral Chiffon

Rent the Runway is a great place to look for black-tie optional wedding guest dresses. The site offers beautiful designer outfits you can wear for a fraction of the price by renting instead of buying. The best part? If you really fall in love with your outfit, you can decide to buy it after. This floral wedding guest dress is suitable for celebrations all year round thanks to the richly colored botanical print.

Standards & Practices Adeline Kimono Maxi Dress in Navy

As we already mentioned, short dresses aren't off limits for black-tie optional dress code—so long as you don't go too short. This midi-length outfit feels formal and contemporary at the same time. The fitted bodice and built-in belt were designed to flatter your curves, while the cold shoulders and front slit are chic touches.

ML Monique Lhuillier Sequin Wide-Leg Jumpsuit in Multicolored Sequin

What is a black-tie optional wedding without a bit of sparkle? This glittery jumpsuit comes in a stylish multicolored hue that'll complement a fall or winter celebration. The wide-cut leg is right on trend and would look excellent paired with a strappy stiletto or heeled sandal.

ASTR The Label Palisades Cowl Maxi Dress in Icy Lilac

This sultry maxi comes in a shade for every season: The Icy Lilac (shown here) and Coral Blush are perfect for spring and summer events, the Slate Blue will look amazing in the winter and the Dusty Sage was basically made for fall weddings. An unfussy silhouette means that every detail of this dress gets to stand out, from the cowl neckline to the thigh-high slit.

Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Off-the-Shoulder Sequin Beaded Gown in Lead

This opulent evening dress is covered in sparkly sequins, making it a wonderful option for black-tie optional weddings around the holidays (or for a starry night theme). It features a refined off-the-shoulder neckline, modified mermaid skirt and slight high-low hem. Accessorize with bedazzled pumps to add even more shimmer to your outfit.

Rumer Freya Jumpsuit in Black

If you're a minimalist, this effortlessly elegant black-tie optional jumpsuit was made just for you. With a fitted halter neckline, pleated pants and functional side pockets, it's a sleek and rewearable jumpsuit for any formal event. Plus, you'll have a blast busting moves in the voluminous wide-leg pants.

Lulus Molinetto Lace Ruffled Tiered Sleeveless Maxi Dress in Navy Blue

We've got plenty more black-tie optional dresses to come. Check out this formal pick from Lulus in a classic navy blue shade. Floral lace over contrasting black woven lining creates a light and airy look that still feels elegant. And with a plunging V-neck, ruffled sleeveless bodice and tiered maxi skirt, it's a suitable dress for both daytime and evening soirées.

Needle & Thread Aurelia Long-Sleeve Gown in Coral

Needle & Thread's ethereal evening gowns are undeniably beautiful. While a lot of the brand's elegantly detailed dresses feel a little too bridal for wedding guests, this vibrant outfit is a stunning exception. The coral hue is a distinguishing feature complemented by soft tulle frills and glamorous sequins. Choose from two lengths for black-tie optional attire: ballerina (midi length) or gown (maxi length).

Amsale One-Shoulder Jumpsuit in Fuschia

If you're looking for a daytime black-tie optional outfit that's stylish and practical, you've come to the right place. This two-toned jumpsuit for black-tie optional attire has a fashionable asymmetrical neckline and a chic one-shoulder topped with a bow detail. Another plus is the pockets, which seamlessly blend into the garment's silhouette. Choose from two gorgeous colorways: vibrant fuchsia or deep navy.

BHLDN Pryce Off-the-Shoulder Column Dress in Dark Green

It's not every day you get to dress up in fancy evening wear. Take this opportunity to wear something truly befitting the occasion, like this silky floor-length gown. The asymmetrical off-the-shoulder neckline adds character to the column silhouette. Best of all, it comes in six sultry colorways—as well as standard and plus sizes—making it one of our favorite dresses for black-tie optional weddings.

Adrianna Papell Art Deco Beaded Blouson Gown in Cassis

This beaded sequin gown is right out of our wildest Great Gatsby fantasies. The rich burgundy shade is perfect for fall or winter black-tie optional weddings. The Art Deco-inspired look is also available in extended sizing, including plus-size and petite options.

Solace London Pleated Lila Dress in Yellow

If your style is bright and bold, consider this sophisticated midi dress in a sunny shade of yellow. The asymmetrical cape sleeve is exactly the kind of statement detail we live for. Keep your accessories classic and minimal to maintain the black-tie-friendly look.

City Chic Sahara Front Twist Wide Leg Jumpsuit in Stormy

Looking for a black-tie optional jumpsuit that you can pull out for future special occasions? We've found it. Featuring a subtle V-neck, adjustable shoulder straps and wide leg, it can easily be dressed up for a black-tie optional wedding. All you need is a stylish pair of stilettos and some fine jewelry.

ASOS DESIGN Tall Bare-Shoulder Dress in Frosty Sage

ASOS has a range of black-tie optional women's attire in tall, petite, maternity and plus sizes. This chic one-shoulder wedding guest dress is designed specifically for taller figures and features a showstopping twist detail on the bodice. And if you're attending a spring black-tie optional wedding, the sage shade will look whimsical against the blooming florals.

Lulus Gowning Around Jacquard Strapless Maxi Dress in Mauve Floral

Here's another formal dress for a black-tie optional wedding. This strapless black-tie optional wedding guest dress features fun details all around. From the romantic allover mauve floral pattern to the elegant trumpet skirt, it's a charming pick for your next luxe occasion.

Reformation Winslow Dress in Mademoiselle

This sweeping gown is available in six different shades—but we're particularly taken by the romantic black floral, navy and emerald hues. Feel free to choose whatever color best suits your style and the season, but keep in mind that lighter shades such as champagne should be avoided, in case they photograph white. Dress up your outfit with gold jewelry and heeled sandals.

ML Monique Lhuillier Embroidered Gown in Dark Floral

Floral embroidery adds an ethereal element to this illusion mesh gown by Monique Lhuillier. The modest high neckline and long skirt make it a great pick for anyone who prefers more coverage. You can rent this glamorous gown starting at $65 for a four-day rental, or you can purchase it at a discounted rate.

ELOQUII Lace Wide Leg Jumpsuit in Black

We can just picture this black lace jumpsuit at an upscale winter wedding. This black-tie optional fit features lace throughout the top half, including on the elegant long sleeves, while the simple black wide-leg pants balance out the intricate detailing. It's a comfortable and fashionable pick for your sophisticated soirée.

Amanda Uprichard Cherri Gown in Black

Still not sure what to wear to a black-tie optional wedding? Darker, traditional hues can instantly make an outfit feel more formal. Exhibit A: This black strapless dress by Amanda Uprichard. The sweetheart neckline, boned bodice and side slit bring a sleek, stylish edge.

Our Favorite Black-Tie Optional Tuxedos and Suits

On the hunt for a fancy suit or tuxedo to wear to an upcoming black-tie optional wedding? We've got you covered. Check out our favorite suave styles for both men and women, below.

Suitsupply Lazio Tuxedo Suit in Black

Suitsupply is a one-stop shop for contemporary men's formal wear perfect for black-tie optional weddings. This slim-fit tuxedo features a single-breasted jacket with silk-covered peak lapels and buttons. The trousers also have a silk-trimmed outseam to keep up appearances. Simply add a white tuxedo shirt, then you can officially move onto accessories. A white pocket square and black bow tie are foolproof options.

Indochino Hannah Dinner Jacket in Navy

A black-tie encouraged wedding is your chance to don a seriously dapper dinner jacket, like this one from Indochino. The website is full of stylish men's attire for formal events, including dress pants and tuxedo shirts to complement the jacket. The deep navy blue suit color adds a unique edge while still looking appropriate for black-tie optional attire.

SuitShop Women's Suit in Burgundy

Suits are also a great option for women attending black-tie optional weddings. We love this stunning burgundy pantsuit from SuitShop. It's crafted from stretch-fit fabric for extra comfortability, while the dark burgundy shade is suitable for dressy events. Style your outfit with a chic pair of heeled sandals or bedazzled loafers.

Bonobos Capstone Italian Wool Tuxedo Extended Sizes in Black Shawl Collar

Bonobos is another popular outlet to shop for men's black-tie optional attire online. The site offers a range of dressy suits and tuxedos in extended sizing, such as this Italian wool tux. The set includes a traditional black tuxedo jacket and matching pants. Now here's the easy part: All you need to do is pick out a shirt and necktie or bow tie.

Hawes & Curtis Men's Semi Plain Zigzag Slim-Fit Suit in Blue

Of course, it's black-tie optional, not black-tie period. Feel free to swap out the tux for a structured suit instead. Three-piece suits are an excellent option because the addition of a vest takes the formality up a notch. Remember to stick with a dark suit, particularly for evening events. Once you've got that figured out, a nice pair of dress shoes will complete the look.

ASOS DESIGN Skinny Suit Jacket and Skinny Suit Pants in Charcoal

We know that buying a new suit can get expensive—so here's an affordable suit that can work for men's black-tie optional attire. The single-breasted suit jacket is equipped with notch lapels, two-button fastening and functional pockets. Meanwhile, the fitted pants are crafted from a stretchy, plain-woven fabric. The charcoal is a refreshing shade for formal events.

BLACK By Vera Wang Notch Slim-Fit Tuxedo in Black

Men's Wearhouse is another one of our go-to's for black-tie optional tuxedos and suits. If you're leaning more toward timeless luxury, this slim-fit tuxedo by Vera Wang is a worthwhile pick. The set comes with a black tuxedo jacket accented with a grosgrain-faced lapel and matching flat-front trousers. Accessorize with a black bow tie and dress shoes to complete your luxe outfit.

Boss Velvet Tuxedo Jacket in Black

If you're attending a black-tie optional wedding in the fall or winter, what about rocking a velvet tuxedo jacket? The soft cotton velvet will add a luxurious element to your overall look. Black satin accents on the lapels and pockets offer a nice contrast to the rich velvet fabric.

Egara Slim-Fit Peak Lapel Dinner Jacket in Midnight Floral Jacquard

Depending on the wedding style and season, you could also play around with different patterns and textures. This slim-fit dinner jacket is covered in a floral jacquard pattern that feels both fashion-forward and dressy for black-tie optional weddings. Wear it with a black bow tie, white tuxedo shirt and slim-fit tuxedo slacks.

Ted Baker London Tampa Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton Suit in
Olive

This black-tie optional men's suit is ideal for your forthcoming outdoor affair. The olive green hue is a unique shade for a daytime event, such as at the beach or garden. For another plus, it's made with soft, lightweight cotton, making it a great pick for warmer climates. Style your outfit with a white dress shirt, a simple necktie and leather loafers.

Monica Mercuri contributed to the reporting of this article.