What to Wear to a Black-Tie Wedding: Dos and Don’ts

A black-tie wedding is the most posh event that one might attend in their life. From seeing black tie events online, and the glitz and glam of Hollywood, black tie can be intimidating. Figuring out black-tie wedding outfit can be like solving a riddle. Well, this article is here to make it easier for you.

What is black-tie wedding attire?

Nowadays, there are a variety of dress codes available for wedding ceremonies. From mood boards to wedding websites, tons of wedding dress codes take time to decode. Festive, semi-formal, cocktail, white tie, and black tie are just a few examples of dress codes. Black tie is one of the most formal dress codes one must adhere to. To break it down simply, a black tie dress code is the fanciest of all dress codes. It’s elegant, it’s classic, and it’s giving an old-money aesthetic. It’s a chance for everyone to step up their fashion game. Do you ever see an outfit and think, “But where would I wear it?” – but the game changes with the help of proper styling.

For men, a black-tie attire is a traditional black suit with a crisp white shirt and a bowtie. But what do women wear to a black-tie wedding? They get to have a little more fun with this dress code, long gowns and cocktail dresses for wedding are the way to go. Add a touch of sparkle and the highest heels you own. The goal is to look like you have just stepped off the red carpet, but not while upstaging the bride.

Black tie optional, means that the couple wants and will encourage you to wear what the dress code wants. However, you will still look appropriate when wearing a shorter, midi dress, or a suit in a neutral colour that is not black. 

What to Wear to a Black-Tie Wedding?

It might be easier to say what not to wear to a black-tie event. The black-tie dress code calls for understated elegance. So, that means well-fitting clothes, nothing over- or under-sized. Chic, neutral colours like black, blue, and jewel tones. Leave the bling at home, small and dainty jewellery like ear studs or a bracelet can add the right amount of sparkle. For a modern black tie dress code for ladies, fabrics like velvet, chiffon, silk, or lace, are the best bet.

The Dos of Dressing for a Black-Tie Wedding

There are lots of Do’s for this tricky dress code. If you’re wondering, what do women wear to a black-tie wedding, this is the chance to go all out.

1. Do, wear your outfit with confidence and get ready to turn heads. Fashion is meant to be individual, so embrace your style and wear something that makes you look and feel your best. 
2. Do, keep it classic. Nobody likes a dress that is too modern. Keep it elegant, keep it timeless. Avoid the Instagram and Pinterest trends, and look to old Hollywood and Bollywood for inspo. Choose a floor-length gown to go with the theme, but calf-length or longer works just as well.
3. Do, accessorize well. A moderate amount of accessories will serve one well in this situation. You can’t go wrong with earrings and a necklace, or a necklace and bracelet duo. Less is definitely more. For your outfit, sequins, beading, metallic brocades, sparkling jewels is the way to go. Glitz and glam will make you look red-carpet-ready. 
4. Do, consider the venue and timing. If the venue is more fancy, then the chance to go all out is right there. But if it’s a more laid-back venue, then wearing a fabric like velvet may be uncomfortable. Consider other factors like the weather, the event, and your partner’s outfit. Also, the timing of the event. Black tie events are generally held in the evening, making it easier to wear gowns and suits. However, if the ceremony is during the day, consider wearing a shorter dress for women, or a suit in a lighter colour or fabric.
5. Do, take into consideration hair and makeup. A polished hair and makeup look can pull the look together. A sleek updo or Hollywood waves are good choices for the hair. Consider coordinating your makeup with your outfit, or just a bold red lip will always be classic. 

The Don’ts of Dressing for a Black Tie Wedding

Just like there are many do’s, there are just as many don’ts. Here, we explore a few of them to help you nail the best black-tie dress code for a wedding.

1. Don’t go flashy. Wear an outfit that has an appropriate length, and is not too flashy. Keep it on the modest side, with a cheeky flash of leg or shoulder.
2. Don’t forget the details. The best way to nail a black-tie dress code is to pay attention to the little things. This can be a flower in the hair or the right pair of shoes for the dress.
3. Don’t wear white. This is the cardinal rule of any black-tie wedding for a wedding guest. It can be taken as a mark of disrespect to wear white to a wedding, especially if it’s not your own!
4. Don’t neglect comfort. It does not help anyone if you wear an outfit that you are not comfortable in. Make sure that you can move freely and easily. The most important part of the black-tie code is to let yourself have fun.

 Common Misconceptions About Black-Tie Weddings

Black-tie weddings do not have to be the stuffy, too-formal event that you think of. Just because its black-tie, does not mean you cannot have fun! It just means that you are doing it in style. Also, it’s not necessary to wear black; one can experiment with classic colours and silhouettes. It is all about striking a balance between looking good and feeling comfortable. Confidence is key to pull off any outfit, so make sure that all parts of your outfit are broken in. If you’re still confused about what do women wear to a black tie wedding, you can always ask the host!

Conclusion

In conclusion, a black-tie wedding is the ideal occasion to up your style game. Navigating this dress code does not have to be stressful and confusing. The best way to enjoy this event is to look sharp and feel comfortable. Embrace this opportunity to wear something that you might not usually pick, and who knows; you might even find your new style mantra.