Undressing Black Tie.

  Many are familiar with the dress code 'Black Tie', but what are the correct assumptions?    

  1. Gentlemen should wear a dinner suit; traditionally black, with satin lapels, black trousers with a satin stripe, a formal white dress shirt, a black bow tie, black patent leather shoes, and black dress socks. A vest or cummerbund is optional and in some cases recommended. Avoid wearing colored or patterned suits, long ties, or casual shoes.


    Unless the event is strictly formal, this traditional view has become a little more relaxed of late. None the less, the following should be observed: Wear a dinner jacket, this can be made in velvet, linen, cotton, wool, etc but always in nightshade tones and with self or satin lapels Appropriate dress trousers in black only; with outside leg seam adorned with silk or velvet piping or ribbon, or brading. We'll cover accessories later on.


  2. Ladies have more flexibility in their attire but should still aim for elegant and sophisticated dresses or gowns. Floor-length dresses or shorter cocktail dresses are appropriate. Again, the level of formality requires the use of one's own discretion when considering the appropriate length. Gala, usually below the knee, Red carpet - anything goes. Consider wearing natural fabrics like silk or satin as they're softer on the skin and more breathable, and accessorise with jewellery, evening bags, and formal shoes to taste. Please avoid more casual outfits.


  3. This is where it can get tricky. If an invitation states "black tie optional," it means guests have the choice to wear black tie attire or a formal dark suit with a tie. While wearing a Tuxedo (American) or Dinner Suit (British) is recommended, a well-tailored dark suit, a formal, plain dress shirt, a conservative tie; not club associated or with garish motifs unless it is a club event. Well polished dress shoes are acceptable. Subtle variations on a patent finish could be considered. However black satin, velvet or suede dress slippers may be experimented with by braver, more veteran guests of formal events.


  4. Looking at accessories, men should wear a black or midnight blue bow tie, preferably self-tied rather than pre-tied. Only ever in velvet, linen or silk. Consider wearing elegant cufflinks, a pocket square, and a 'dress' wristwatch. No rings, unless wedding, signet or club - At most. At particularly formal events, ladies may consider wearing silk or cotton dress gloves; usually finishing around the elbow.


  5. Considering your personal manner; black tie events are formal and require the proper behaviour, manners and etiquette. This is no family barbecue. Arrive on time or a few minutes early, read the room and greet hosts and other guests with courtesy and respect without interrupting conversation. When conversing, engage in polite conversation and avoid controversial or sensitive topics such as politics, ethics or religion. Jovial sports related banter would be the bar. Keep mobile phones on silent and use them discreetly. Better still, turn them off. Respect any specific event protocols or traditions, such as toasts or speeches. If you are lucky enough to be on the receiving end of a toast, one should never raise a glass, drink or applaud your own praise. A nod of acknowledgement and a thank you is more than sufficient and perfectly polite.


  6. When sitting down to dine, familiarise yourself with basic dining etiquette. Wait for the host to indicate where to sit and when to begin eating. Always sit down from the right, as you would be served or waited on from the left. Use the appropriate cutlery from the outside in. Pace yourself with the meal and pass the port to the left after offering to serve the person to your right. Take special care to remember this tradition at military events. Follow the lead of others regarding toasts or raising your glass. If unsure on conversation as a guest at a particularly formal dinner, indulge the guest to your right until the host 'turns the table' at some point during the meal; your verbal cue to politely now indulge your fellow diner to your left side.

Remember that black tie events are formal affairs, so it's important to adhere to the expected dress code and behaviour to show respect for the occasion and the hosts.

But most of all, remember that given the choice, nobody wants to be sat next to a tightly wound stressed mess. Most mistakes will be forgiven. Smile and have fun.

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