It’s often a pleasure and exciting to receive an invitation, but to receive an invitation for a black-tie event trumps the usual dinner party or evening meal, out in most cases! The excitement may turn to anxiety when you realise that this is not the usual casual shirt and jeans event, it’s the real deal, and there is a dress code to adhere to! Walters have put together a handy guide to help you, so that when the special day arrives, you are confidently ready to attend.
What is black tie?
Black-tie to many of us may shout BAFTAS or James Bond! But it is really the term for a formal dress code that can be worn to different special occasions. It outranks the regular business suit, but is less formal than white tie, and is often associated with weddings, dinner parties, awards ceremonies, special birthdays, and other special milestones.
What does black tie consist of?
We have put together a list of what a typical black-tie outfit looks like, and a few variables.
- Suit: A dinner suit, also known as a tuxedo. The jacket is black (Navy is starting to see a surge) and is traditionally made using wool with satin peak lapels. If you wish to take a more modern approach, then black velvet dinner trousers are perfectly acceptable. The trousers must be black and feature a black satin stripe or braid that runs down the outer seam of the trousers. It is important to get a good fit and ensure that they naturally taper down the leg.
- Shirt: Better known as a dress shirt, in white with a Marcella bib front, a winged collar for the bow tie, and double cuffed. Cufflinks of your choice are required to be worn with this shirt. It is possible to wear an everyday white shirt, but it is less traditional and doesn’t compliment the suit in quite the same way.
- Shoes: Black patent shoes. These are different from your everyday black brogues. These are super special and eye-catching for their mirror-like shine. Black velvet slippers, although not necessarily a practical choice, are a fabulous alternative if you like wow-factor and causing a sensation!
- Bow tie: Black bow tie – available as ready-tied or self-tied. The black-tie dress code is traditionally accompanied by a black bow tie, but some occasions will allow colours, so it is best dealt with on a case-by-case basis. A white bow tie, however, is strictly forbidden as part of black-tie attire, as it is reserved for white tie only.
- Cummerbund: To be worn in black. It is not essential, but it really does complement the suave look and does an excellent job of keeping the rebellious ends of your shirt out of sight! It also helps to maintain posture and is an excellent alternative to a waistcoat.
- Accessories: Braces can be worn if necessary. Avoid a belt as most dinner trousers have side adjusters. A nice watch finishes the outfit off nicely, especially if you are someone who likes to keep traditionally analogue, as opposed to carrying a device, or perhaps, you’re just partial to a bit of jewellery! A pocket square can be worn in the front breast pocket and is a nice addition.
It is very important to get it right – cutting corners is a no-go. Adhering to the rules laid out in our guide of what is required will alleviate any apprehension as your special event approaches. As you no doubt reflect on the memories made, you will have no regrets having followed the protocol correctly!
Please do not hesitate to contact us in store or by phone, and we will guide you through any concerns you have.
Walters of Oxford
10 Turl Street,
Oxford OX1 3DW
+44 (0) 1865 241848