Dos & Don’ts for a ‘Black Tie’ Event

To dress up for formal events, especially where the invite says — “black tie only” can be daunting for even the most impeccably dressed men. Not only celebrities or famous people but everyone wants to show off the timeless tuxedo, dress shirt and bow tie attire once in a while.

The first thing most people think of for black tie events’ attire is a tuxedo. But an important thing that many people don’t know is that tuxedos are to be worn exclusively in the evening. Tuxedo, black tie and dinner jacket, all refer to extremely formal attire. But just wearing a tuxedo is not going to do the trick; you need to follow specific guidelines that will help you look great at a formal event.

So here are the DOs and DON’Ts of the “black-tie” dress code.

DOs

THE TUXEDO

· If your invite says that it’s optional to wear a tuxedo, you should still go with a tuxedo if you don’t want to be the odd man out. Most people would wear a tuxedo to the ‘black tie optional’ events.

· The tuxedo can only be either black or midnight blue. Bolder souls can sport an ivory-colored jacket during summers or in warm climates.

· Jetted pockets look more formal than the flap type on the jacket.

· For peaked lapels, add a vest; a cummerbund should be paired with a jacket with shawl collars.

· Ideally, the tuxedo should be lined with satin facings.

THE PANTS

· Pants can be worn with braces not belts.

· Avoid leather braces. Stick to black or white braces with matching corded ends.

THE SHOES

· For shoes, black patent leather oxfords, plain or cap-toe are ideal.

· Socks should be black and knee-high. Silk are best but thin cotton or wool are acceptable.

THE SHIRT

· Shirts have to be white with either Italian, French collar or winged collars.

· A pocket square is traditionally worn.

BOW TIES

· Finish off the look with a black silk self-tie bowtie. A bow tie is a must-accessory for the black tie look.

· Formal new designer bow ties also look classy. They are easily available online at stores like the Modern Day Mogul.

DON’Ts

· Never wear a belt with a tux, only braces.

· Notched lapels are complete ‘NO’ for a proper tuxedo.

· No flap pockets.

· Avoid pre-tied bows for “black tie only” events,

· Do not wear the cummerbund with the pleats facing down. The pleats were designed to face up.

· The shoes are meant to be formal but without too much detail like wingtips.

· Do not wear neckties, only bow ties will do for a tux.

To buy new designer bow ties on sale online, check out one of the leading bow tie stores, www.moderndaymogul.com.