It’s not every day that you get invited to a black-tie event. Often reserved for the finer moments, a tux is classed as formal attire that you only bring out on very rare occasions or if you are James Bond.
Many modern gents own suits, but not a tuxedo. So, how do you make the most of this and utilise what you already have in your wardrobe for black tie events? At Cavani, we have a wealth of experience and knowledge, and we’re going to show you ways in which you can look smart at a black-tie event even though you don’t own a tux.
What is the difference between a tuxedo and a suit?
One of the very first things you should know when it comes to black-tie event attire is the differences between a tuxedo and a suit. To the untrained eye, a tuxedo and a suit may look like the same thing, but they are in fact, very different. So, what are the difference between a tuxedo and a suit?
Tuxedo
Usually, tuxedos have satin facing the lapels, pocket trims, buttons and a satin stripe down the side of the leg of the trousers.Accessories include a bow tie, cufflinks, cumme*rbunds and waistcoat.Buttons: satin buttons.Suit
Suits don’t usually incorporate any satin.Accessories include a tie, cufflinks, pocket square and waistcoat.Buttons: plastic buttons or buttons made with the same fabric as the suit.Suit Terminology
The suit world can be confusing; if you have ever set foot in a tailoring shop, you wouldn’t be judged for thinking that they were speaking another language. Understanding the components and terminology can be difficult. This is why we have created a list of commonly used phrases or words within the suit and tux world.
Bib:Not to be confused with the velcro type often adorned with cute drawings for toddlers, a bib in the tailoring world is very different. A bib is known as a panel that sits up the front of a dress shirt and ensures that the appearance stays bright white and doesn’t look transparent.
Butterfly Bow Tie:This one isn’t too confusing. A butterfly bow tie is a classic staple of tux attire. A butterfly bow tie is the official name for the standard bow tie and comes from the shape of the tie when it isn’t being worn.
Double Breasted:The term double-breasted will always be in conjunction with a jacket and is two parallel columns of buttons and overlapping flaps that cross over one another for a rigid and broad look.
Oxford:Used formen’s shoes, the term Oxford describes shoes that have a low heel, closed laces and an exposed ankle.
Stud:A stud is known as a decorative fastener that fits into the buttonholes on formalshirtsand can help you to deliver a refined look that impresses.
Wing collar:As you probably guessed, a wing collar is a starched collar with tips that stand up; they are also horizontal like wings.
Understanding the invite to a black-tie event
When you get your invite to your formal event, there may be a sentence or two that explains the dress code. At Cavani, we’re here to help you decode the invite so that you know exactly what to wear to the function. The last thing we would want is for you to turn up in the wrong attire.
- If your invite says‘Black tie’, you should follow the rules and wear the full ensemble. This includes a dinner jacket, matching trousers, pleated white shirt, bow tie and formal black shoes. A waistcoat is optional.
- If your invite says‘black tie preferred or requested’it is encouraged that you wear a black tie if you can, but if you don’t wear one, you won’t be turned away from the event. The organisers of the event want to create a formal atmosphere for the event but don’t want to refuse anyone entry.
- If your invite says‘black tie is optional’, you can expect the rules to be more relaxed when it comes to the dress code. With a more relaxed dress code, you can expect fewer people to be wearing tuxedos at the event. A top tip that you should follow here is to opt for a darker suit to ensure that you don’t get mistaken for a waiter.
If your invite says‘creative black tie’,the choice about what you wear is up to you.
Outfit ideas for black tie events if you don’t own a tux
At Cavani, we have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to tailoring and smart casual wear, which is why we have compiled a range of outfits for you to choose from to wear when attending a black-tie event as a non-tux owner.
Opt for a dark suit
Wearing a dark suit is the best option if you don’t own a tux. If you don’t own a tux, the chances are that you probably already own anavyor blue suit. To ensure that you are somewhat following the dress code, try and make sure that the hue of your suit is a very dark blue or navy. Adding a dark navy suit to your wardrobe is an important addition that every modern gent should have on hand for the finer moments in life.
A stand out dinner jacket
If you want to stand out from the crowd, then you could always wear a dinner jacket that has a pop of colour. One piece that you could wear to a black-tie event is theRosa Copper Slim Fit Blazeras this is a statement piece that can be repurposed for other occasions. You don’t have to wear the jacket with just a white shirt and tie; another chic option is to pair a statement jacket with aturtleneck. This attire is great for events that suggest “black tie is optional” as you will find ways to repurpose the outfit afterwards but still bring an air of class to the table.
Check out our full range of suits and accessories
Not having a tux doesn’t need to be a huge inconvenience, and it certainly doesn’t have to stop you from going to a black tie event. If you are worried about not owning a tuxedo, you should make sure that you focus on accessories such asbow ties, which will pull your full outfit together and ensure you look suave.Make sure that you check out the full range ofsuitsavailable at Cavani, and get ready for that black tie event!
FAQs
Opt for a dark suit
Can you wear a normal suit to a black tie event? ›
There are a set of rules to follow that will ensure you nail the black tie look and it is easy to turn up to your event looking like a prince. A Black Tie outfit is made up of a dinner jacket, a dress shirt, trousers, a bow tie and accessories of course. Your regular 9-5 office suit just won't cut it!
What colors should you not wear to a black tie event? ›
While “black” is in the name of black-tie, you don't always have to wear black at a black-tie event. Other options are available, although it's best to opt for colors like black or navy, and you won't want to wear white, except for your dress shirt.
Can I wear a grey suit to a black tie event? ›
The tuxedo or dinner jacket, along with the trousers, should ideally be black. Lighter shades such as grey, tan or light blue may be acceptable for summer events. The dress shirt is traditionally white, while the tie should be black or a dark, rich colour.
Can I wear a blue suit to a black tie event? ›
It's also best to avoid suits that aren't black (or dark blue) and patterned ties or shirts.
How to do a black tie without a tux? ›
The Navy Suit Option
A navy suit may be considered one of the more unique attire choices for black tie functions. The clue is in the name – “black” tie. Navy, which is a dark shade of blue, seems to fly in the face of that requirement.
What are the rules for black tie dress code? ›
Men are requested to wear a tuxedo, but can opt for a dark suit. Women can choose either a formal evening gown, a shorter co*cktail dress, or dressy separates.
What do ladies wear for black tie events? ›
Black tie is a formal dress code typically for evening events such as weddings, galas and dinners; which requires a more refined and sophisticated sense of style. Think full length evening dresses and luxurious fabrics like silk, lace and velvet.
Can I wear a co*cktail dress to a black tie event? ›
Shorter dresses in formal fabrics or with elevated details (and paired with ultra-glam accessories) are typically acceptable at a black-tie wedding. "A dressy co*cktail dress is appropriate—when you see sparkly or brocade fabric, that's still considered black tie," says Swann.
What not to wear to a black tie? ›
Men can also experiment with tuxedos in other colours: navy and green are popular alternatives to classic black. When it comes to what not to wear to a black-tie event, lounge suits (the kind that might be worn to the office) should be avoided and shirts, shoes, and trousers should be formal.
Tips for styling yourself for a black-tie optional wedding:
Wear a full-length or mid-length dress. Short dresses won't match the formal vibes. Wear dark or rich hues like black, gray, navy, or jewel tones. When in doubt, stick to solid colors, since patterns can sometimes feel too casual.
What is black tie optional attire for a man? ›
The “optional” in Black Tie Optional means you'll still be dressed in formal menswear – just not necessarily a traditional tuxedo. You can branch out into dark colored suits as well, preferably in shades of black, navy or charcoal. Dark suits with a subtle pattern can be a smart way to play with the dress code.
Do you have to wear a bow tie to a black tie event? ›
Understanding the invite to a black-tie event
If your invite says 'Black tie', you should follow the rules and wear the full ensemble. This includes a dinner jacket, matching trousers, pleated white shirt, bow tie and formal black shoes. A waistcoat is optional.
What colours are acceptable for a black tie event? ›
Don't go for black every time
But this is also a wonderful opportunity to embrace colour and textures. 'Opt for Quality Street colours, such as coffee creams, ruby reds, emerald greens and opulent orange,' Virginia says.
Can I wear a normal black suit to a black tie event? ›
For a black-tie event, avoid wearing: Suits even black – black-tie dress code means a tuxedo or formal dinner jacket outfit.
What is the difference between formal and black tie? ›
Not quite. Both refer to formal, fancy attire, but the term “formal” is more general, giving guests a wider range of options to choose from. “Black tie” is more specific and generally the second most formal dress code (after white tie), and men must always wear tuxedos and bow ties to black tie events.
Can I wear a suit to a black tie event as a woman? ›
For Women. For women attending black tie events, full-length formal gowns are typical. This is the most formal dress code, so it's fitting to opt for a full length gown. Alternatively, you can also wear a formal jumpsuit or pantsuit, depending on your personal style.
What do men wear to a black tie event? ›
What's a Classic Black Tie Outfit for Men? For the modern man, the standard outfit for the black tie dress code consists of the following: a black/dark blue tuxedo, a white tuxedo shirt, a black silk bow tie, a cumme*rbund or waistcoat, patent shoes and a white pocket square.
Is a black suit ok for black tie optional? ›
Suit: Even though it's optional, a black tuxedo is acceptable.
What makes a dress black tie optional? ›
What Does Black-Tie Optional Mean? Black-tie optional means that guests have the option of wearing their most formal attire (think: an evening gown or tuxedo) but can also choose to wear a formal suit or co*cktail dress instead. Basically, you have some flexibility to play with your fit.
