’Tis the season for events. Some are black tie and some are white tie—but what’s
the difference? In this presentation, we will explore the distinctions between these two contrasting events along with the various types of apparel associated with them.
White tie events are by far the most formal. This type of dress typically consists of the following: • White bow tie • Black double-breasted tailcoat • White dress shirt • White stiff-wing collar • White waistcoat • Black pleated trousers • Black socks • Black shoes
Black tie events also call for formal attire, but are slightly more relaxed
than white tie events, and include: • Black bow tie • White dress shirt
• Black single-breasted tuxedo jacket • Black cummerbund
• Black flat-front tuxedo pants • Black socks
• Black shoes
Both white tie and black tie affairs share similarities in terms of the dress code. DO: • Wear men’s cufflinks • Keep the waist covered • Match shirt buttons to the event’s color DON’T:* • Don colored jackets or coats • Wear a long tie in lieu of a bow tie • Feel obligated to wear a top hat or gentleman’s gloves *unless otherwise specified by the event
There are some more casual forms of black tie events as well, including: • Black Tie Optional • Black Tie Creative • Lounge These types of events still call for formal dress, but allow for a bit more freedom. In these instances, things like long ties and colored suits are
perfectly acceptable.
Black tie optional events usually encourage traditional black tie apparel; however, the dress code is less strict. Feel free to wear the following: • Charcoal coats and trousers
• Long necktie • Pocket square • Boutonniere
Just like the name says, black tie creative is generally geared toward creatives, toeing the line between formalwear and business wear. It’s okay to wear standard black tie dress here; however, the following are also fine to wear in lieu of the usual dress: • Colorful, tailored suits • Long necktie • Brown oxfords
The most casual of all black tie events is by far the “lounge” event.
These affairs have a relaxed dress code, but still require a suit to be worn. Here, you can let your style and creativity run in many directions. Lounge events are often comprised of the following: • Colorful two-button suits • Notch lapel • Standard business dress shirt • Skinny neckties / Tie clips • Brown loafers
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