Dress Code Black Tie: Do's and Don'ts

The history of Black Tie

Black Tie, of course, refers to a black bow tie. Introduced in France in 1650, the bowtie was worn primarily on formal or business occasions. This started with a white bow tie, but later, in the 19th century, more and more colors were introduced. The color black was still very unusual until Pierre Lorillard V wore a black bow tie with his dress suit at a gala dinner in 1886. It was quite daring at the time, but soon became a trend.

Nowadays, Black Tie refers not only to the black bow tie, but rather the entire outfit that comes with it. So the term Black Tie stands for the dress code and the outfit that goes with it is a tuxedo. To make it even more confusing, there are other terms for this outfit, namely tuxedo and dinner jacket or dinner suit. These terms all refer to the same neat outfit that gentlemen traditionally wore to a dinner party, but are based on the idea that men brought an extra jacket to wear while smoking. This was used to keep the smell of smoke out of the neat clothing. Hence the term "tuxedo.

Dress code Black Tie for ladies

Although this dress code is based on men's outfits, there are some guidelines for women. For example, a long dress is preferred for this dress code. So be sure to outfit yourself with a beautiful gala dress. Do you opt for a short version? Then wear tights. Both low and high heels fit within this dress code. Choose a clutch as a bag, preferably one that matches your shoes.

Also pay due attention to your hair and makeup. After all, external grooming is one of the main focuses of this dress code. Both ladies and gentlemen are expected to look fresh and well-groomed. In addition, choose beautiful matching jewelry, such as a necklace, bracelets or a nice pair of earrings. 

Absolute don'ts

Note, however, that there are a few "violations" that women can make. So the freedom of choice of the Black Tie dress code for women has both advantages and disadvantages. For example, never put on sneakers under your dress, even if you can't see the shoes under your dress. In addition, you are not supposed to put on a dress with a low cut. Your cleavage may be visible, but in a tasteful way. Also be careful not to wear a watch, that is really a no go! 

Dress code Black Tie for gentlemen

With the Black Tie dress code, the man should wear a tuxedo. Not everyone has a tuxedo hanging in their closet, which is why tuxedos are often rented. However, if you are going to buy a tuxedo, what exactly must the tuxedo meet? 

The tuxedo originally consists of a single breasted jacket with shawl lapels. The jacket is of black wool and the lapels of black satin. The pants are of the same material as the jacket and have a high waist. The distinctive feature of tuxedo pants is the satin piping in the same fabric as the jacket's lapels, which runs down the side seam of the pants. The shirt you wear under the jacket is supposed to be muscle white and have a blind button closure. So you can't see the buttons of the shirt. 

Nowadays it is quite acceptable to deviate from this etiquette and you see different variations of the tuxedo appearing. For example, different colors and other style details are chosen nowadays. In this blog you will read all about the style etiquette of a tuxedo and you will discover in which way you can sometimes let go of the etiquette a little.

Accessories 

With a tuxedo, as the dress code says, you wear a black bow tie. This bow tie is of the same material as the jacket lapel and the piping of the pants. You are actually expected to tie it yourself. Fortunately, you may tie the bow tie in different ways. Traditionally, a cumber strap in the same fabric was also worn, that way your shirt stayed well tucked into your pants. This is not done as often these days. As a finishing touch, wear black patent leather shoes and black socks under your tuxedo. It is important not to wear any other accessories!

Absolute don'ts

Making a mistake is human, but if you wear an outfit that is not in line with etiquette then you are committing a "faux pas. That is a violation of the dress code. For example, it is really not appropriate to wear a watch. 'Conviviality knows no time,' is the thinking behind it. Likewise, a belt is an absolute don't when wearing a tuxedo. This dress code is all about the details and a sophisticated look.