The Black Tie Dress Code Guide
What is a Black Tie Dress Code for Women?
While for male guests a black-tie dress code strictly outlines the exact outfit they should wear, women are not quite as lucky. Black tie is an elevated formality, so dresses should be no shorter than knee length. There are no clear rules on prints or colour choices, so be encouraged to explore unique patterns and bold tones that you may not always reach for. If attending a black tie wedding, you should steer clear of white, ivory, or cream so as not to upstage the bride. If dresses are not your usual style, tailoring should be clean and sleek, with separates that match.
Does Black Tie Mean I Have To Wear Black?
No, “black tie” simply indicates the level of formality. Black clothes are not expected, and you should opt for a tone that reflects the occasion and your personal style. This isn’t to say that black isn’t allowed, and it could be assumed that the majority of men will be wearing a black suit, so simply style yourself in your preferred shades, whether this is midnight black or a fuchsia pink.
Black Tie Dresses For Black Tie Occasions
If you sway towards a sleek and classic aesthetic, black is a natural choice. A forever timeless-yet-iconic design, a black dress will see you through endless occasions.
Black occasion dresses come in every imaginable shape and style, and feature an endless amount of intriguing and unique details. Our favourite pieces include pieces that add contrast in texture, whether this be three dimensional, floral appliques, or sparkling diamantes. Flowing, slinky silhouettes add to the formality, and features like cutouts and halter necklines elevate the piece, making them ideal for events with a black-tie dress code.
Black Tie Dressing: Jewel Tones
Although the name can be deceiving, there is no obligation to stick to an all-black look for black-tie events. Rich jewel tones, such as red, emerald green and navy are a popular choice. For autumn occasions, try a rich burgundy or deep maroon, while summer soirées call for brighter blues and pinks. Although every colour is acceptable, with the exception of black-tie weddings, these styles promise to impress.
Choosing a dress with a bold colourway, will inject personality into your look, and catch eyes all evening. A vibrant dress exudes confidence and self-assurance, so be empowered to choose a dress in a tone that speaks to you.
What Length Dress Should I Wear For Black Tie Dress Codes?
Traditionally, hemlines should fall no shorter than knee-length for black-tie events. Whether swaying towards a full-length gown or classic midi dress, ensure it’s a style that offers confidence as well as sophistication.
Cascading Hemlines: Long Black Tie Dresses
The longer the dress, the more opulent the piece - not just due to the modesty, but due to designers having more scope to add embellishments to the fabric. Flowing silhouettes, unexpected texturing, cut out detailing, and more unique features are certain to add captivating detail to any black tie event outfit.
Black Tie Outfits: Tailoring & Jumpsuits
Add a contemporary touch to your black-tie ensemble in a modern suit set or jumpsuit. Perhaps dresses are not your usual style, or you generally lean toward a more edgy, androgynous, or gender neutral event outfit? A jumpsuit or tailored separates are the way forward for a black tie occasion outfit that takes a non-traditional approach, whether that be in a bright hue or sleek black.
Explore options such as blazer and trouser sets, flowing, wide leg jumpsuits, or contemporary blazer and skirt sets. Style with platform loafers or pointed court heels to keep your powerful, attention-demanding style flowing from head to toe.