Black tie for a party.
When you're invited to a formal party, showing up in the wrong type of outfit can be most embarrassing---for your hosts, as well as for you. Different types of formal events have specific fashion requirements, and it is important to know just what kind of event you'll be attending. The fashion rules are simple, though, so once you know the basics, you can be sure to show up in the correct attire.
What Does the Invitation Say?
Different kinds of formal parties call for different suit types, tie colors, dress lengths and other details, so it is very important to pay attention to what is stated on the invitation. If you are unsure about whether or not an event is a formal one, contact the host or hostess and ask.
White Tie
A white-tie event is the most dressy of formal parties. It requires that a man wear a black tailcoat suit, white vest, white wing-collared shirt, white bow tie and white or gray gloves. His shoes should be shiny black or patent leather and worn with black dress socks. A woman should wear a floor-length evening gown.
Black Tie
While a black-tie event is still rather fancy, it is slightly less so than a white-tie affair. A black-tie event requires that a man wear a tuxedo, a black bow tie, a matching vest or cummerbund and black shoes with black dress socks. Suspenders are optional, in order to ensure a better fit. A woman may wear a long evening gown or short cocktail dress to a black-tie event.
Black Tie Optional
As the name suggests, black-tie-optional events give guests the option to wear different kinds of formal wear. Women may wear a long evening dress, short cocktail dress or dressy separates. Men may choose to wear a tuxedo, as they would to a black-tie event, or a dark suit with a white shirt and dark tie.
Semiformal
This type of event is the least rigid of formal occasions, and the fashion etiquette is a bit more relaxed. A semiformal party calls for a short cocktail dress or a long dressy skirt and top for women. Men should wear a dark business suit, white shirt, tie and dark dress shoes.
Tags: black-tie event, cocktail dress, short cocktail, short cocktail dress, black dress
