What Dress Should I Wear to a Black Tie Wedding
Read up on etiquette rules and shop our favorite outfits.
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Receiving an invite to a black-tie wedding might send you into panic mode if you're unsure of what this dress code entails, but a rare opportunity to don your very best attire can actually be pretty fun. Who doesn't want to feel like royalty for a night in a floor-sweeping evening gown or dapper tuxedo? We encourage you to go all out in your finest formal wear. (There's actually only one dress code that's a step above black tie in formality, and that's white tie.)
Confused about what exactly a black-tie dress code means? You've come to the right place. We're breaking down the etiquette behind the formal dress code, as well as answering wedding guests' biggest FAQs on the subject. But that's not all—we're also sharing some of our favorite black-tie wedding attire for men and women to help inspire your search for new formal wear.
In this article:
- What is Black-Tie Attire?
- What to Wear to a Black-Tie Wedding (FAQs)
- Our Favorite Black-Tie Wedding Attire for Men and Women
What is Black-Tie Attire?
Typically, a black-tie wedding requires guests to wear either a tuxedo or an evening dress. "The lines have been blurred over the years, but it is safe to assume that black tie means fancy, and you really can't be too over-dressed (short of wearing a white, floor-length dress yourself)," says Marteal Mayer, co-founder of sustainable Brooklyn bridal boutique Loulette Bride. A tuxedo should be your first choice, but if you want to wear a suit instead, a black-tie event typically means wearing—you guessed it—a plain black necktie or bow tie. For those wearing a dress, a full-length evening gown is the norm. Guests are also expected to stick with darker colors like navy, gray and deeper jewel tones (think: emerald or burgundy).
What to Wear to a Black-Tie Wedding (FAQs)
A black-tie wedding doesn't just mean wearing a tux—guests should pair it with a tuxedo shirt, bow tie, a polished pair of dress shoes and an optional cummerbund. If you plan on wearing a black-tie wedding guest dress, a dressy pair of heeled sandals, closed-toe pumps or flats will suffice. Still have some questions about what a black-tie wedding really means for your wardrobe? We've got you. Check out our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about black-tie formal wear.
Can you wear a short dress to a black-tie wedding?
As a black-tie wedding guest, you can't go wrong with a long formal gown (and if you don't get a lot of opportunities to wear one, you might want to go for it!). That said, it's not your only option, especially with a modern black-tie dress code. "For women, a floor-length dress is great, but a more fancy cocktail-length dress can also work," says Mayer. It's acceptable to wear a tea-length dress to a black-tie wedding, so long as it feels elevated enough and hits mid-calf or below. Opt for something with elegant embellishments (we're big fans of beading) and stick with darker hues.
Can you wear a suit to a black-tie wedding?
Whether the dress code states "black-tie optional," "black-tie preferred," "black-tie invited" or just "black tie," you can assume that a tuxedo is your safest bet. The couple and their wedding party will be wearing their best black-tie attire on the big day, and it's respectful for guests to replicate that level of formality in their own outfits. That said, suits aren't completely out of the question. "Men can wear a tux, but are also fine to wear a nice black, gray or navy suit," says Mayer. If you're wearing a suit, you should plan to keep it minimal, choose a dark color and wear a bow tie.
Can you wear a jumpsuit to a black-tie wedding?
Short answer: yes! Jumpsuits have come a long way in the last few years, and according to Mayer, there are plenty of options out there that are suitable for a formal black-tie wedding. "It's 2021, not all women want to wear dresses, nor do they have to," she says. Similar to cocktail dresses, make sure whatever style you choose feels elevated enough for an upscale event. We'd recommend avoiding styles with busy patterns or bright colors.
Can you wear black to a black-tie wedding?
It's 100% acceptable to wear black to a black-tie wedding (and in a lot of cases, it's actually preferred for men to wear a classic black tuxedo). Darker colors are considered more formal, making them completely appropriate for a black-tie event.
Our Favorite Black-Tie Wedding Attire for Men and Women
As we've covered already, tuxedos and long evening dresses are the standard for this formal dress code. If you're in the market for some stylish new evening wear, we've got dozens of great suggestions below you can buy online. Shopping on a budget? There are plenty of companies that offer tuxedo rental services, like Men's Wearhouse. Similarly, Rent the Runway is a great place to rent an evening dress for a fraction of the price compared to buying.
1. BHLDN Dylan Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress in Dark Emerald
Black-tie wedding guest attire is more versatile than you might think. This gorgeous maxi dress checks all the boxes without feeling over-the-top fancy, meaning you'll likely be able to wear it again. Plus, the leg slit and sleek satin material add a sultry edge. Accessorize with a pair of dressy heeled sandals and a coordinating clutch.
2. Bonobos Capstone Italian Wool Tuxedo Extended Sizes in Black Shawl Collar
If you don't own a tuxedo already, we recommend picking up a quintessential style like this black Italian wool option. It'll work for black-tie events all year round, plus you can always swap out the tuxedo jacket for a snazzy patterned dinner jacket the next time you wear it (depending on the type of occasion, of course). A pair of black patent-leather shoes and a black tie or bow tie are essential to complete the look.
3. Sachin & Babi Blakely Gown in Navy
This deep blue evening gown is certainly elegant enough for a black-tie wedding. From the Italian Lagattolla stretch-tulle neckline to the hibiscus flower detail on the cap sleeve, there's a lot to love. Plus, the modest high-low skirt means you can show off a dazzling pair of high heels.
4. Suitsupply Washington Tuxedo Suit in Navy
Dark navy is also an appropriate color choice for black-tie functions. The tuxedo suit, crafted from S110's wool by Vitale Barberis Canonico, is a luxurious option for fall or winter upscale affairs. It features a silk-covered peak lapel, silk-lined jetted pockets and lightly padded shoulders to seal the deal.
5. Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Scoop Back Sequin Gown in Lead
A black-tie wedding dress code doesn't mean you can't have a little fun with your look. If you gravitate toward shiny things, you'll love the look of this sequin gown by Adrianna Papell. This sparkling floor-length number has an elegant scoop back and sheer partial train for extra pizazz. Bonus: This dress comes in standard, petite and plus sizes.
6. Mac Duggal Long-Sleeve Floral Chiffon Gown in Black Multi
Looking for something with an ethereal feel? Let us introduce you to this romantic floral wedding guest dress. Thanks to the darker hues, this botanical beauty isn't just for spring; it'll work black-tie attire all year round (especially for winter and fall wedding guest dresses).
7. Reformation Ingrid Dress in Celadon
The soft blue hue of this minimalist maxi is great for guests attending a daytime black-tie wedding. Daytime events allow for a little more freedom in terms of dress length and color. A dramatic pair of earrings or a statement necklace will add a chic finishing touch to this summery ensemble.
8. Indochino Harford Velvet Tuxedo in Emerald
While wearing a black tux is your safest bet, it can be appropriate to play around with different colors and textures depending on the couple's wedding style and the season. Both velvet and jewel tones are associated with winter, making this emerald velvet tuxedo a suitable fit for a winter wedding.
9. Alexis Berezzi Lace Jumpsuit in Black
Like we said earlier, jumpsuits for wedding guests aren't off-limits. For black tie, you should avoid styles and materials that feel too casual, such as flowy florals or linen. This one-sleeve asymmetrical number with lace is a serious upgrade from your everyday, run-of-the-mill jumpsuit. (Bonus: First-time RTR customers can take 25% off their first rental when they spend a minimum of $75 with the code KNOTRENTAL.)
10. Kiyonna Leona Lace Gown in Pinot Noir
Such a special occasion is deserving of an equally special outfit. This elegant black-tie number comes in three formal event-ready hues: navy, wine and black. And if romantic lace, an illusion neckline and a flowy skirt aren't enough to convince you, this plus-size evening gown also has pockets.
11. Lulus Dreamy Romance Backless Maxi Dress in Mustard Yellow
If you're buying an outfit for the couple's wedding day on a budget, you won't regret taking a look at what Lulus has to offer. This glamorous yellow maxi dress is another excellent pick for a black-tie event taking place during the day or at a slightly less formal venue, like in a rustic barn or on a sandy beach.
12. Norma Kamali x REVOLVE Halter Turtle Size Slit Gown in Black
Sleek and sophisticated, this black-tie-approved wedding guest dress is a real stunner. With a chic mock neckline, a fitted silhouette and a tasteful side slit, you'll look forward to wearing this sophisticated frock. Accessorize with statement earrings and sparkly heels to elevate your black-tie wedding outfit.
13. Indochino Hampton Tuxedo in Navy Tartan
If the couple requested "creative black tie," the wedding is taking place during the day or the venue isn't super formal, you're more than welcome to play around with different prints and colors. This plaid tuxedo still feels stylish and elevated, but it allows you to show a little more personality. Pair it with a black bow tie and dress shirt for a contemporary twist.
14. Fame & Partners Olsen Dress in Navy
The best thing about Fame and Partners' beautiful designs is that they're tailored to your exact measurements. For example, this lovely navy number is available as a knee-length dress or formal maxi. For black-tie wedding dress codes, we suggest the formal maxi length. Other standout features include the ruffled neckline and backline and the skirt's elegant side slit.
15. David's Bridal Plus-Size Cutout One-Shoulder Crepe Gown with Slit in Black
As far as black-tie wedding guest dresses go, this one is incredibly versatile. While an LBD (read: little black dress) will always be a wardrobe staple, you can't go too far wrong having a long black dress on hand for those formal events where a mini skirt just won't cut it. The asymmetrical neckline with a cutout detail gives this crepe gown a fresh feel.
16. Joseph Abboud Notch Lapel Black Label Slim Fit Tuxedo in Grey
While the wedding invitation might say black tie, it's okay to go for another dark, neutral tone like gray or charcoal. This Joseph Abboud tux has a modern slim fit and double-pleated trousers with a satin stripe. All you have to do is add a tie, pocket square and shoes, and you're good to go.
17. Reformation Kinsale Set in Black
Dresses aren't the only option for women attending black-tie weddings. We love a pantsuit moment, especially this dressy co-ord set made up of an oversized black blazer and matching wide-leg trousers. Plus, the blazer has front buttons and pockets—so carrying a purse is optional.
18. Jenny Yoo Ryland Velvet Maxi Dress in French Blue
Velvet fabric instantly ups the level of formality to this black-tie wedding guest dress. Graceful long sleeves add a polished element to this floor-sweeping gown guaranteed to garner compliments from other guests. Wear it with statement earrings and an elegant clutch.
19. Topman Skinny Tuxedo Jacket and Skinny Tuxedo Pants in Black
This tuxedo for men's black-tie attire will show the happy couple you really understood the assignment. The single-breasted style is completed with notch lapels, single button fastening and chest and side pockets. Finish the look with Topman's matching skinny tuxedo pants for a put-together ensemble.
20. Hutch Floral Hi-Low Gown in Black and Red
A high-low hem offers the best of both worlds between a knee-length and maxi dress. The tasteful black and red floral pattern on this strapless gown is formal enough for black-tie wedding attire. Best of all, it starts at just $41 for a four-day rental. It's one of our favorite affordable dresses for wedding guests.
Monica Mercuri contributed to the reporting of this article.
Source: https://www.theknot.com/content/what-to-wear-black-tie
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