Black Tie Dress Code: The Only Guide You Need To Always Get It Right

If you're still scratching your head over the concept of 'business casual', a black tie dress code is probably enough for you to immediately RSVP 'no'. We don't blame you. Not to get scientific about it but, with the rise of athleisure and the casualisation of workwear, it's standard practice to wear jeans and trainersday in, day out. What that means is that a black tie dress code feels about as relevant to our lives as a spacesuit. It is nice, however, to have an opportunity to dress up. And black tie is nothing if not an excuse to give it your all in the wardrobe department. So, there’s no reason to be afraid of having to dress up. Dress code rules might sound daunting but, once broken down, they’re easily digestible. Keep scrolling to get the full low-down on how to get black tie right and what it actually means.

Do dress codes matter?

The short answer: yes. Even though the rules and attitudes around dress codes is becoming increasingly relaxed, following dress codes is a show of respect to the effort that has gone into putting an event together. Regardless of which dress is required, sticking to the dress code noted on the invitation is a nod to the host, thus it's just good manners.

What does a black tie dress code actually mean?

The good news is that a black tie dress code is actually much more straightforward than business casual. Black tie simply means formalwear. If you want a visual description, imagine the kind of dress you would wear to a red carpet premiere. That would definitely tick all the boxes. Having said that, there are no rules on the red carpet and so sometimes, the quickest solution to any sartorial conundrum is to reach out to the host for clarification on what dress is expected of the guests.

What is a black tie dress code for women?

For women, a black tie dress code usually means a floor-length dress in an evening-appropriate fabric like silk, chiffon or velvet. Anything too casual should be avoided.

Can a woman wear a short dress to black tie events?

A black tie dress code usually expects a floor-length gown but it also depends on the circumstances. If it's a friend's wedding, you can obviously ask them whether or not they mind if your wedding guest dress doesn't quite reach the floor. Unless they want to strictly adhere to the black tie dress code, chances are they'll be fine with you flashing a bit of leg. But it’s always best to assume that ‘black tie’ translates to a floor-sweeping maxi dress.

What if you don't like dresses?

Luckily, for those frightened by the thought of a frock, modern day dressing offers alternative options to a black tie dress. A tailored tuxedo is a classic choice, as is a formal jumpsuit. The same rule applies here, too: nothing too casual.

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What not to wear to a black tie event?

If you’re unsure about what to wear, contact the host and get more intel on the nature of the occasion, what they’re wearing themselves and how wedded they are to the dress code stated on the invitation. Having said that, don’t drop a text on the morning of – instead leave enough time to make sure you have the perfect outfit at hand - steamed and dry-cleaned.

What does a black tie dress code mean for men?

Black tie is the second smartest form of formal dress for a man - white tie is the smartest - and simply means a tuxedo accessorised with a bow tie. Although men have definitely been mixing it up on the red carpet - see: Oscar Issac in a skirt, Paul Mescal in a tank top, Paapa Essiedu in velvet palazzo pants - the vast majority still stick to a classic tuxedo for events like the Oscars.

Do you have to wear a particular type of shoes to comply with a black tie dress code?

The easy answer is no but formal shoes will obviously be the most fitting. This means putting the flip-flops, wedges and espadrilles on ice, choosing something like a pointed satin pump, a slingback or a barely-there sandal. And if you prefer flats, an elegant pair of ballet pumps would do the job nicely. Just make sure the hem of your dress doesn't pose too much of a tripping hazard.

Henrik Lischke is the senior fashion features editor at Grazia. Prior to that, he held the role of commerce writer at British Vogue, and was junior fashion editor at The Sunday Times Style. A first-class honours Fashion Journalism graduate from UAL: London College of Fashion, Henrik is invariably on the lookout for the newest talent in fashion that is driving the industry forward, shining the spotlight on them whenever possible. He’s also got a passion for interior design and the arts.