Black Tie vs. Formal Wear

The Holiday season is always a busy but fun time for you and the family. It usually consists of several family and work parties where you would like to look your best.

In order to look your best, you must be aware of the attire requirement for whatever party you are attending. Most Holiday events usually require either formal wear or black tie attire and the distinction is crucial.

For a black-tie event, men must wear a tuxedo. A black bow tie, black vest or cummerbund, and patent leather shoes are also suggested. Women have options, they can go a bit dressier and wear a formal floor-length gown, or they can choose a dressy cocktail dress, paired with heels or dressy flats. Dressy pants suits are also acceptable.

Formal or Black-Tie Optional attire men have the option of wearing a tuxedo or a formal dark suit, white shirt, and conservative tie. For women, the choices are the same as with black-tie: a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pants suit. As far as women are concerned, there’s no difference between black-tie attire and black-tie option attire. The “optional” part comes in for the men.

So for your next Holiday party make sure you know the dress code for the party and make sure you have the proper attire for the event. An important rule to remember is that you’d rather be overdressed as opposed to underdressed.