What is the Black Tie Dress Code for Women?

When you get an invitation to a formal event such as a wedding, it can be a black tie dress code or a variation of the black tie dress code. There are also the options of black tie with a twist, white tie and black tie optional in addition to the traditional black tie. Learn about what is proper for both men and women so you can be the belle of the ball without embarrassment in the wrong dress.

Understanding the Different Types of Black Dress Codes

Most people understand the black dress code. But did you know there are several variations of it that each means something different? You want to make sure and wear the correct clothing for any formal event so you fit in.

Traditional Black Tie Attire

The traditional black tie attire is the second most formal event for both men and women. Only the white tie dress code is more formal. For men, the easiest way to achieve the look is to wear a tuxedo that is black, with a black bowtie and a black cumberbund or vest is optional. The shirt should be white with a button down collar and pleats. The shoes for traditional black tie are patent leather shoes to complete the look. At some black tie events, you may wear a white tuxedo jacket. The white option is usually reserved for summer events or affairs that take place in tropical climates or even for a cruise.

Traditional black tie for a women is a bit more forgiving. It requires a sophisticated level of dress. You have your choice of two types of dresses — a floor length gown or a cocktail dress. You may choose a floor-length gown in dark colors such as navy, brown or black which are all suitable and elegant. Choose a dress that is simple with a feminine silhouette and in an elegant color, such as black. You can never go wrong with a grand black, full-length gown that highlights your silhouette, such as a A-line or a silhouette dress. The neckline may be off the shoulder, asymmetrical with one shoulder, a high neckline or a plunging neckline. Many times the formal dress will include lacy arms or a lace bodice and may include a deep slit on the sides of the skirt or in the front. .

Dressy cocktail dresses are also okay for this formal code. although most will tend to stick with a full length formal gown. Some women just don’t feel comfortable in a full-length gown, so this is a great option for you. You can choose a classic little black dress or a cocktail dress in silk or satin. It’s best to stick to black or any rich jewel tone in a cocktail dress. You should keep the hemline to fall at the knee no matter which type of dress you choose. A cocktail dress can have some sparkle or embellishments in it to increase the formality level and let you shine all night long. You want to finish your ensemble with sophisticated accessories, jewelry and heels. Rich reds and blues are a great choice for a cocktail dress. Any type of neckline will work fine and you may include a bright and sparkling belt to accessorize your look.You should still wear heels with a cocktail dress to a black tie event, as pumps are the dressiest of all women’s shoes.

Black tie wedding attire can include more different styles including dresses with trains, backless dresses, sleeveless dresses, layered dresses and off the shoulder dresses. You can choose an up and down hemline or a handkerchief hem. Bustles in the back are even allowed in this type of dress code for weddings. Dresses with intricate beading are a great choice or a style with loads of lace adorning the front of the dress. You can even choose to go with fringe and still be within the dress code. If you choose a dramatic style that shows more skin, make certain that you won’t get cold during the event or simply take a cover up of some sort with you to add to your outfit just in case you may need it.

Black Tie with a Twist

You might get an invitation for an event that specifies the dress code as black tie with a twist or creative black tie. This will give both men and women more freedom in their wardrobe choices. For men, it still means that they should wear a tuxedo, but the accessories can vary greatly from he traditional look. Men can wear a polka dot bow tie, a cumberbund with a pattern or a tuxedo shirt that is any color other than white. Women should still wear the floor length gown or a cocktail dress but you can add deep intrigue to your dress with bold accessories. You can choose large pieces of costume jewelry as statement pieces, an antique, bright colored clutch or a pair of pumps in a drastically bright color.

White Tie Attire

White tie dress codes can be even more formal than traditional black tie events. The classic tuxedo for men is upgraded to a tuxedo jacket with tails. The tails should reach the back of the man’s knees. The look is complete with a white bow tie, a very crisp-looking pleated dress shirt and gloves in either gray or white. The women should wear a very formal evening gown that is floor length for a white tie event. The dress fabrics are very elegant and include silk, satin, taffeta or chiffon. Women should also have a dramatic hairstyle such as a French twist. They should also accessorize with glamorous jewelry such as diamond necklaces, earrings and rings along with dramatic makeup including a very bold lip color, such as a bright red.

Black Tie Optional Attire

If you receive an invitation to an affair and it states the dress code as black tie optional, then you have more options than in any other dress code. The men may wear a dark suit with a white dress shirt and a conservative tie that is either one color or includes a classic striped pattern. Men should wear more casual shoes made of leather rather than patent leather. Women can wear the same floor length gowns or cocktail dresses, but they can also opt to wear very dressy separates instead and still fit the bill of black tie optional. You can wear a simple pencil skirt with a silk blouse or a dressy pantsuit of any sort.

This should guide you to attending a formal event and dressing within the dress code. You never want to look overdressed or underdressed for any event. Instead, you want to stand out for being elegantly dressed in a sophisticated style.

Originally published at sattajcollections.com.