whitetie

White tie, also known as white-tie or white-tie attire, is the most formal dress code in Western etiquette. It governs evening events and is stricter than black tie, evening dress, or formal business attire. It is most commonly required for state occasions, royal ceremonies, and formal balls, especially in Europe and North America. When an invitation specifies white tie, guests should observe the full code.

Menswear consists of a black dress tailcoat worn with a white wing-collared shirt, a white pique waistcoat, and a white bow tie. Trousers are black with a single satin stripe along the outer seam. Footwear typically consists of patent leather low-cut formal shoes. Accessories are kept minimal; top hats are traditional but not always required, and gloves are sometimes worn with the dress.

In women's fashion, white-tie events call for evening gowns that are floor-length and refined. Optional opera gloves, subdued jewelry, and elegant updos are common. The aim is a restrained, formal appearance that complements the formal men's ensemble.

Origins trace to 19th-century Western aristocratic fashion, formalizing a tier of dress beyond black tie. Although still recognized in many countries, actual enforcement varies by region and era, with fewer events requiring white tie today. Invitations that specify white tie usually indicate a highly formal occasion.