So often people think black tie means a long, strapless, dark prom-style dress and if that’s your style, you do you, but there are options. If you want to show off your legs you could go short - but keep it classy with either long sleeves or a higher neckline. Think Princess Diana’s revenge dress for timeless inspo and add sheer 10 denier tights for a fashion twist. You might want to check in with your host before you checkout, though, to ensure that you're not wildly out of step with the mood of the event.
Retrofete Katya Draped Sequinned Chiffon Gown
ASOS DESIGN Scatter Embellished Ruffle Off Shoulder Cut Out Midi Dress In Rust
If you’re going to the party with a date or a group of friends, definitely discuss the dress code beforehand and plan to dress similarly, if possible. Obviously it will make the photos look dreamy on your feed but if you’re similarly dressed to your friends, you will also feel more appropriate. There is safety in numbers, when it comes to black tie dress codes.
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How can you avoid wardrobe faux pas?
Because black tie is a dressed up dress code, think about the fabric that you’re going to wear and make sure it’s suitably luxe. In winter velvet or taffeta is a great choice and for summer, silks, satins, lace and chiffon are ideal. Sequins also work at any time of year as do lurex, lame and metallic materials. We love linen for summer daytime dressing but it can look too casual for a black tie dress code, as does cotton, poplin and denim - despite Britney Spear’s iconic red carpet denim gown from 2001.
If wearing the same thing as another guest is your idea of a nightmare situation, see if you can speak to as many of the other guests before you plan your outfit (or check in with the host, be forthright and ask if she knows if anyone else is planning on wearing the same as you.) Chatting with the host will give you helpful pointers as to their interpretation of the dress code to see if you're on the right track (and avoid unplanned twinning) but you can also work out if any of the potential guests will have seen you wearing a dress before, if you're planning repeat-wearing something you already own (which isn't a faux pas.)
Topshop Co-ord Lux Oversized Tuxedo Blazer In Black
Alice + Olivia Shan duch*esse-Satin Blazer
What happens if you do spot someone in the same dress as you? Be bold. Go straight up to the other guest, compliment them on their excellent fashion sense, take a selfie and then avoid each other for the rest of the night.
What if I don’t do dresses?
Not a problem. A jumpsuit is a modern alternative to the one-and-done ease of a dress - go for a bright shade and add statement jewellery but you could also wear a tuxedo suit, over bare skin or with a silky camisole underneath. Don’t underestimate the power of separates too. A full-length skirt would be a really versatile choice. You can style it with a white men’s dress shirt (like designer Carolina Herrera often does) or wear it with a bodysuit in a similar shade for a coherent look. A sequin tank top will also bring some drama. You could also go for a silk or satin blazer over a simple slip dress, if you have one in your wardrobe already.
Reiss Ruby High-Rise Woven Maxi Skirt
Lace & Beads Petite Exclusive Tulle Maxi Skirt Co-ord
Because black tie dress codes are pretty rare, you won’t get as much wear out of your outfit as you would if you were buying a white t-shirt or jeans, for example, so renting your look would be a clever and sustainable choice. Check out our guide to the best rental sites here. If you do buy something but won't get the chance to wear it again, consider becoming a lender yourself. This is everything you need to know, here.
