Black Tie Wedding Dress Code: What to Wear Guide

Black tie means tuxedo. A classic black tuxedo with satin lapels, black bow tie, and white dress shirt is always appropriate.

Midnight blue tuxedos are also traditional and acceptable. White dinner jackets are appropriate for summer evening events.

Accessories: Black patent leather or highly polished shoes. Cummerbund or vest (not belt visible). Pocket square optional but elegant. No colored bow ties or casual elements.

Floor-length gowns are the standard for black tie. Elegant fabrics like silk, satin, chiffon, or velvet are appropriate.

Very formal cocktail dresses (tea-length or midi) are sometimes acceptable, particularly for black tie optional events. When in doubt, go floor-length.

Jewelry can be substantial - this is the occasion for statement pieces. Elegant evening bags and heels complete the look.

"Black tie optional" means tuxedos are welcome but not required. Men can wear dark suits (black, charcoal, navy) as alternatives.

Women have flexibility between floor-length gowns and dressy cocktail dresses. Lean toward more formal if unsure.

When black tie is optional, those who choose tuxedos and gowns will look most appropriate. It's really permission to dress down slightly, not an invitation to be casual.

Don't wear regular suits to black tie events. Business suits, even nice ones, don't meet black tie standards.

Avoid inappropriate tuxedo accessories: colored bow ties, casual shoes, or novelty cummerbunds undermine the formality.

For women, too-casual fabrics or styles don't work. Save the sundresses and short cocktail dresses for less formal events.