What Is Black Tie Optional And What Does It Mean ?
When sending out wedding invitations, a lot of couples choose to include a dress code in order to inform guests of what is expected and ensure that confusion doesn’t reign when it comes to attire. Dress codes can be a little confusing and so, in this article, we’re decoding dress codes and answering the question “what does black tie optional mean?”
Black tie for tying the knot
As we’ve mentioned, this article is going to be all about black tie optional but first, in order to understand this properly, let’s take a peek at the “Black tie” dress code.
Traditionally, an invitation which states the dress code as black tie means that the event will be super formal – and guests are expected to dress accordingly. For men, this will usually mean a black tuxedo, a white dress shirt, black shoes and a bow tie. In some cases, men may choose to add a waistcoat and / or a cummerbund. Belts should not be worn with the tuxedo but braces are usually acceptable.
For women there is a little more flexibility with this dress code however, they are expected to to wear evening formalwear – usually a dress or a suit with smart shoes and should avoid anything too quirky or revealing.
Historically, black tie was reserved for evening functions however, in the modern world, this dress code can be applied to daytime events such as weddings.
What is black tie optional?
The great thing about the black tie dress code is that there’s very little ambiguity about it as this code pretty much tells guests exactly what is expected of them. The black tie optional code, however, is a little bit murkier.
Essentially, this dress code – also known as “black tie preferred” or “black tie encouraged” tells guests that they have a choice. If you receive an invitation which contains this dress code, it means that you are permitted to wear black tie should this be your preference for formal occasions. It also, however, means that you may opt for a more informal – but still smart outfit.
A guide to black tie optional
While there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to black tie optional, there are a few guidelines that you should allow if you want to avoid making a wedding guest faux pas and, some of these are:
- Dress length – Although black tie optional means that you don’t necessarily have to wear a floor length gown, you should avoid anything which hits above the knee as this will almost certainly appear too casual for the occasion. Full or midi length however are considered to be acceptable.
- Colours and patterns – With black tie optional men can toss out the tux and, instead, wear a regular smart suit – however, it is best to avoid any garish colours or patterns, even when attending a wildflower wedding, as this dress code still has a note of formality to it. As a general rule of thumb; if you stick to black, navy or charcoal you won’t go too far wrong.
- To tie or not to tie – Again, while this dress code is certainly a little less formal than black tie, you will still be expected to wear a tasteful tie with your suit.
Cracking the codes
From smart casual for restaurants to black tie and white tie for formal events; in the modern world, the lines between these codes have become increasingly blurred. Because of this, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution – meaning dress on the smarter side of any dress code and you won’t go too far wrong.