blacktie

Black tie is a formal dress code used for evening social events, typically after 5 pm. The term stems from the traditional accessory most associated with the outfit: a black bow tie worn with a tuxedo or dinner jacket. In invitations, the phrase signals a high level of formality and a dress expectation beyond business or casual wear.

For men, the standard black-tie ensemble is a tuxedo or dinner jacket in black or midnight blue, paired with matching trousers that often feature a satin stripe. A white formal dress shirt, usually with a bib or pleated front, is worn with a black bow tie. Accessories commonly include a black formal waistcoat or a matching cummerbund, black patent leather shoes, and a white pocket square. The jacket may have satin or grosgrain lapels. Trousers are typically tailored and break just above the shoes; socks are dark and formal.

For women, attire generally centers on a floor-length evening gown, though in some contexts a very dressy cocktail dress may be acceptable. Fabrics are typically refined and darker in color, with minimal casual embellishments. Jewelry and accessories are chosen to complement the gown, and formal heels or elegant footwear complete the look.

Variants of the dress code include black tie optional (allowing a dark suit or a tuxedo), and white tie, which is more formal and rarer. Etiquette emphasizes a polished appearance, appropriate grooming, and adherence to the event’s stated expectations. The term remains widely used in invitations and event guides to denote formal evening attire.