What to wear to a black-tie event
Remember how the characters on 'Gossip Girl' dressed for special occasions? That’s the bar here.
Kim Jones at Dior Homme said he wanted to make “Dior’s classic black suit a bit cooler and a bit more fashion.”. AFP/FRANCOIS GUILLOT
Dress-code jargon can be difficult to decode. What is “black tie,” actually, and how is it different from “white tie”? Here’s a breakdown.
DOs
Remember how the characters on “Gossip Girl” dressed for special occasions? That’s the bar here.
— Dress: Long gown or a very elegant cocktail dress. This can be elevated with jewellery and other accessories.
— Tuxedo.
— Pumps or strappy sandals.
— Black wingtips or oxfords.
Don’ts
— Bright colours: It’s not a strict rule, but most people advise against them for practical reasons: They’re harder to re-wear and more difficult to clean.
— Scuffed shoes: Even if they are dress shoes, you want them to be in tip-top condition.
When black tie is appropriate
— Fancy weddings
— Galas
What about white tie?
There’s one step above black tie: White tie, for very, very fancy weddings and Met Gala-calibre fundraisers. For these events, looking like royalty is the ideal outcome — think floor-length gowns, tailcoat jackets (your business attire is dapper, but it’s not welcome here), jewels and long white gloves. (Optional, and sort of extra, but isn’t that the point?)
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