Black-Tie Dress Code: The Vogue Guide (2024)

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What’s the best way to navigate black-tie dress code?

Simply put, “black tie” for women best translates as “long”, and in an evening-appropriate fabric, such as velvet, chiffon, silk or lace. A co*cktail dress – shorter, possibly ritzier – might cut it if your host is of a relaxed nature (or if the dress is, say, a dramatic Alexander McQueen style), but it’s best to assume that a floor-sweeping number (or a tuxedo situation – yes women can wear a trousers suit to a black tie event) is expected.

How can I predict how smart an event will be?

There will be clues. Firstly, consider the invitation medium. The thicker the woven stock of your pigeon post (and the more fanciful the calligraphy and the first-class stamp), the smarter the event. If the summons came in digitally, via Facebook or WhatsApp, you can relax a little. The exception is Paperless Post – just because the invite dropped in via email doesn’t mean it’s not a floor-length affair. The medium of text message should also be respected: it’s a method that suggests, “I’m so laid-back with my invitations”, but means “rhinestones are encouraged”.

How can I avoid making a wardrobe faux pas?

Get hold of the guest list. This will provide you with both legions of people to quiz about their personal interpretation of the dress code, as well as handy intel if you’re considering repeat-wearing an old favourite (N.B. this is no longer a faux pas – it simply shows you know your style). Above all, you don’t want to turn up wearing the same dress as someone else. If the worst happens, create an Instagram Story immediately, then keep well away from your doppelgänger.

What shoes should I wear?

Scope out the location. Gravel, paving, lawn, parquet floor? Assess the routes you might need to take over the course of the evening and prepare to park the stilettos. Or, if you simply must wear your new crystal-strewn Saint Laurent metallic sandals, find a willing squire to ferry you across danger areas. (On that note, never, ever take your shoes off on the dancefloor. You may step on a rogue shard of glass – or another guest may step on your pedicure. Either way, it’s never chic.)

Vogue’s top pick of timeless black tie shoes to wear:

From sensible to daring, whatever the pick, pack plasters.

Can I wear black?

Absolutely. There’s a reason why everyone else is wearing it. Just make sure your accessories are ice-breaker status – your host will appreciate the effort you’ve made provided you’re wearing a Phoebe Philo-era Céline crystal collar. And if all else fails, buy a cluster of diamanté brooches and pile them on to lapels and necklines – or in messy, bed-head hair. Tell everyone they’re heirlooms and prepare to sparkle.

Vogue’s edit of statement bags:

A bold bag can elevate even the simplest outfit.

What we’ve learned over the years?

Take the advice given above but don’t forget act at your own discretion. Not every black-tie event is the same, so, different rules apply. Show your respect to the host and follow what they set out for the dress code to be for the night. If ever in doubt, ask the host – they will know the answer.