What to Wear to a Black-tie Event?

A black tie dress code indicates that the event is going to be very formal. If the couple have specified a black tie dress code, this means dressing to the nines in your absolute best attire – think about the kind of outfits you'd see on a Hollywood red carpet or Gala dinner.

For ladies, a floor-length evening gown would the most appropriate choice to suit a black tie event. A mid-length dress can also be suitable if the style is formal and sophisticated, but you'd definitely want to steer clear of a mini dress or separates for a black tie occasion. Dark, rich colours like black, navy, emerald and red are often best suited for this dress code as opposed to lighter tones. Here, we recommend off the shoulder evening dresses, sequin evening dresses, long sleeves evening dresses.

Heels, jewellery and formal hair and makeup styling are also recommended for a black tie wedding. When in doubt, opt to dress up rather than down – it's best to be overdressed than underdressed within this kind of setting.

For the guys, a black tie dress code means a formal, tailored suit and bow tie with a fitted tuxedo or dinner jacket, along with leather dress shoes and a well-groomed appearance. When it comes to the colour of your suit, black or dark navy is the most appropriate choice.