What Does Black Tie Optional Mean?

It is followed usually in large business and formal gatherings, including business dinners and can replace the typical business dressing. If your invitation specifies that, it means the guests have the choice to wear the clothes described in the invitation, like a tuxedos or personalize them a bit according to their choice/preferences. But this simply does not mean that they can wear anything of their choice, it is still necessary to wear proper suit (black or dark midnight blue) and not any sport jacket or a funky T-shirt.

A very famous fashion writer, Mr. Russell Smith stated in one of his writings that this dress code is frequently used by hosts who are insecure. He explained that if a host mentions this dress code in an invitation, then they might try to respect guests who may refuse or don't like to attend events with such elitist and selective dressing. One more reason not to write "black tie only" is the feeling that some guests might do not own a dinner jacket or cannot afford one. This hesitant nature of host makes the guest have no idea what they should wear to blend into this gathering.

Mr. Smith further suggested the hosts to avoid adding these elements in your invitations. He said that if anyone can afford a black suit he'll not in any way say no to black tie party.

Man

Guests usually get confused by reading the code "black tie optional", so the first thing should be doing is to directly ask the organizers what they expect their guests to wear. If that doesn't work, then you may follow the tips below:

• If a guest personally likes wearing tuxedo, then he should ignore the term "optional" right away and don't hesitate to wear it.

• A guest can also opt for a dark colored suit with dress shirt and a conventional tie along with combinational dress shoes, if he is afraid of being recognized as a wait staff.

• In case you are tired of this guesting game, then simply avoid the event.

Women

Women can opt from multiple options when they have to dress up for this type of event.

• The best option is to wear a long evening gown of floor length. It could be the most formal option and will go best with a man wearing tuxedos.

• Other options could be a nice and knee length cocktail dress or well-stitched dressy separates. No matter what style you choose, you should go for colors, like navy blue, black and other bold colors such as emerald and magenta.

Great Accessories

Only a dress is not enough for a great look but accessories along with it make you look better. Here are some suggestions for you.

• For Men: Leather shoes of dark shade, along with a pair of socks of dark combination. A matching leather belt can enhance the look as well.

• For Women: There are thousands of options for women to highlight their looks by adding appropriate accessories that goes perfectly with their dress. They can add jewelry like beautiful pearl necklace, diamond bracelets, pendants, ear-rings, etc. Heels like stilettoes, open-toes, high heel pumps or wedges are great options.