Few phrases on a formal invitation cause more sartorial anxiety than “Black Tie Optional.”
This dress code attempts to offer freedom but often delivers confusion. For the modern gentleman, decoding this request is essential.
At its heart, Black Tie Optional is an evening dress code that presents a choice: honor the host’s formality by wearing a tuxedo (the preferred choice) or opt for a rigorously selected dark suit (the acceptable alternative).
It is the most generous of all formal dress codes, acting as a courtesy from the host who acknowledges that not every man owns a tuxedo. In fact, relatively few do, seeing as dinner jackets can be quite expensive, especially if you go the made-to-measure or bespoke route.
The key to succeeding is understanding that “optional” is not an invitation to dress casually. The danger lies in the lack of commitment—aiming for the middle ground leaves you looking awkwardly underdressed.
This guide is built to ensure you execute either your tuxedo or your formal dark suit with confidence and authority.
We independently choose the brands we feature. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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What Does Black Tie Optional Mean?
Black tie-optional refers to a dress code in which a tuxedo/dinner jacket (black tie) is requested, but guests have the option to wear a dark business suit if they so choose. They take place in the evening, just as standard black tie events do.
We call this the most generous of the dress codes because it’s a judgment-free acknowledgement that not all men own or can afford actual semi-formal wear.
Tuxedos aren’t necessarily expensive, but they’re always more expensive than comparable suits due to the additional material needed for the facings.
Which Types of Events Are Black-Tie Optional?
Any event that’s otherwise black tie can become black tie-optional if the host decides to make it so. These could include weddings, evening celebrations for religious rites of passage such as communions and bar mitzvahs, and even certain galas.
Let’s break down the various garments that you can wear at a black tie optional event by looking at your two options:
Option A: The Tuxedo [The Preferred Choice]
Ideally, we’d opt for a tuxedo. By choosing this route, you honor the host’s request and will be perfectly dressed. We highly recommend investing in a tuxedo when the opportunity arises, as you never know when you’ll need it until it’s too late!
Tuxedo Jacket
A traditional black tuxedo is the definitive choice. However, modern sartorial standards permit specific sophisticated alternatives:
- Midnight Blue: This tone is a very traditional alternative to black and often appears richer and deeper under evening lights.
- Velvet Dinner Jacket: A velvet smoking jacket in black, midnight blue, burgundy, or bottle green may be substituted for a traditional tuxedo jacket, especially for festive occasions in cooler months.
Black Tie Optional Shirt [Tuxedo]
Should you wish to wear a tuxedo, we’re particularly fond of the evening shirts made by Eton. These are excellent for black tie optional as they’re not overly formal.
Instead of shirt studs, they have a covered placket, and they feature a turndown collar. French cuffs are the ideal choice.
Black Tie Optional Shoes [Tuxedo]
Black Patent Leather Loafers
If you’re wearing a tuxedo, you must opt for shoes for that particular occasion, such as patent leather oxfords or slippers. The high shine of patent leather is essential to match the formality of the satin lapels of the jacket.
For specific options when it comes to tuxedo shoes, check out our detailed guide for the best black tie shoes to buy online.
Black Tie Optional Tie [Tuxedo]
If wearing a tuxedo, a black bow tie is required, with a self-tie being ideal.
Featured Solution: Suitsupply Black Tie Package
For men looking for a comprehensive, high-quality, ready-to-wear solution, Suitsupply offers a dedicated Black Tie Package designed to deliver a complete ensemble without piecing it together.
The Package ($999): This package provides all the essential components for a full black tie look :
- Tuxedo: A choice of black or navy tuxedo (jacket + pants).
- Shirt: An Egyptian cotton tuxedo shirt (plain hidden placket, piqué bib, or pleated bib).
- Shoes: Classic patent leather Oxford lace-ups or black velvet slip-ons.
- Accessories: Includes a silk bow tie, a choice of cufflinks, and suspenders.
The package is available for $999 and can be upgraded to include a waistcoat for $100 more ($1099 total).
Rafael Wearing SuitSupply Tux Package
Suitsupply is renowned for its quick turnaround and in-store alterations, which help achieve a perfect fit, making this an excellent choice for gentlemen seeking a quick investment in their formal wardrobe.
Option B: The Dark Suit [The Acceptable Alternative]
We realize that not everyone would opt for a tuxedo. And given the dress code’s name, you don’t have to do so.
If you choose this path, you must ensure your suit is dark and accessorized conservatively to compete with the tuxedos in the room.
Black Tie Optional Suit
If wearing a suit, it must be dark.
- Acceptable Colors: This is one of the rare occasions in which it’s acceptable to wear a black suit. Dark charcoal and deep navy are also perfectly acceptable options.
- The Grey Suit Question: While dark charcoal is permitted, light-colored suits (such as light grey or khaki) are strictly forbidden, as they are considered too casual for an evening event.
If you don’t have anything in your wardrobe that’s appropriate, we can recommend a number of excellent suit brands:
- Custom Suits: If time is on your side and you’re planning ahead, we’re very fond of custom suitmakers like Indochino. With these services, you can submit your measurements online, and the suits are then made and shipped to your home. For more information on this, head to our guide to the best custom suits to buy online, where we detail price point, quality, and overall value for the various options.
- Ready-to-Wear: If you’re in a hurry, Suitsupply has yet to let anyone down. They offer excellent quality for the price that you pay, and your garments will arrive very quickly.
Black Tie Optional Shirt [Suit]
Tux Shirts with French Cuffs
Whatever you choose, your shirt should be white.
While barrel cuffs are fine on this occasion, French (Double) cuffs are the ideal choice. In a pinch, a light blue shirt will work too, but we’d avoid it if at all possible.
If you want to pick up a quality shirt for the occasion, head to our guide to the best shirt brands on the market.
Black Tie Optional Shoes [Suit]
If you’re wearing a suit, we suggest classic cap toe Oxfords in black calfskin leather, polished to a high shine. This is the most formal shoe you can wear with a suit. Do not wear patent leather shoes, which are reserved for tuxedos.
Beckett Simonon is one of our top choices when it comes to traditional oxfords. For a modern dress shoe with memory foam insole, check out Amberjack’s black loafers.
Black Tie Optional Tie
When choosing something for black tie optional, opt for an understated tie.
- Recommendation: A black, navy, deep plum, or deep burgundy necktie will work wonderfully. Select a solid color as opposed to one with a pattern.
Crucial Rule: If you are wearing a suit, do not wear a black bow tie. A black bow tie is reserved for the tuxedo and will make your suit look like an awkward imitation of black-tie attire.
What Accessories To Wear For Black Tie Optional
In keeping with black tie guidelines, colorful accessories are best reduced to a minimum.
For instance, novelty braces and wild socks will seem somewhat out of place. Nevertheless, feel free to throw on a boutonnière for some added flair!
The beauty of this is that if your capsule wardrobe is fleshed out, you will already have everything you need to attend a black tie-optional affair. Click the preceding link if you’re unsure of what a capsule wardrobe is (and if you don’t know, you’ll find a ton of value in it!).
What Not To Wear To A Black Tie Optional Event
Sure, there are options. It’s in the title of the dress code, isn’t it?
Full khaki suit is unsuitable for a black tie optional event
Of course there are, but not all of them are available to you on this occasion. Here are some basic things to avoid:
- Light-colored suits: Black tie-optional events take place in the evening, and a suit in light grey or khaki (pictured above) simply won’t cut it.
- Odd jackets & trousers: If you’re thinking about wearing khakis and a blazer to a black tie-optional gathering, think again. Even the smartest “odd” combinations are too casual for an affair with tuxedos.
- An outfit without a tie: You need to wear a tie. It doesn’t matter if it’s a bow tie or a necktie, but you need to wear one. And you need to tie it yourself.
- Crazy socks: You may wear crazy socks to a casual office, the movies, a date, a crazy sock convention, or similar situations. For black tie-optional events, keep your socks the same color as your trousers.
On a related note, we recently updated our dress socks guide with the best brands currently on the market. If your sock wardrobe needs refreshing, it’s a great place to start!
What Next?
For a man who doesn’t own a tuxedo and wisely refuses to rent one, black tie-optional events are his best friend. You can minimize expense by utilizing your existing wardrobe and still look like a million bucks when you’re out on the town amongst the tuxedo-wearing masses.
However, we believe it’s worth investing in a tuxedo when the opportunity arises. After all, you’ll never know when you’ll need it until it’s too late!
For more information on other dress codes, see our guide to dress codes. Otherwise, we have a host of other resources at your disposal:
About The Author – Paul Anthony
Paul is a the founder and creative director of Bespoke Unit. His interests range from: suits, shoes, watches, sport, and travel. See his full profile here, and read latest articles.
How about a light green shirt or a dark green tie for a “black tie optional” wedding on St. Patrick’s Day?
Hi Jim,
Usually green shirts are quite daring and wouldn’t be something that you’d expect from black tie optional attire. However, if the wedding is already St Patrick’s Day themed, then I imagine that a lot of people would be incorporating green in to their outfits too. Personally, I say go for it! If you’re not sure, check with other guests if you know some and see how they’re dressing.
Best,
CP
What about a purple checkered shirt,with matching tie, for a black tie optional wedding on easter?
Hi Matt,
Although shirts should usually be white on black tie optional occasions, you should be fine with a purple checked shirt for a wedding. Nevertheless, it depends on the ensemble as a whole. Think about the shirt’s cut as well as the type of suit and shoes that you’ll be wearing. You can use certain elements to lift the formality of your attire to give you more freedom in other areas.
For instance, does the shirt have barrel or French cuffs? If the latter, the purple check won’t be too casual at all. You can also read our guide on shoe formality to learn more.
All the best,
CP
what about a banded collar tuxedo shirt with a black onyx button cover, i hate ties
Hi Alex,
Banded Mandarin-style collars are certainly an option if you’re not a fan of ties. Although they’re not a traditional option, we wouldn’t rule them out for those who have a real aversion to the style.
All the best,
CP
Hi,
I have read mixed info on the net re: a dark grey suit at a black tie optional event. I will be going to a black tie optional wedding later this month, and don’t have a black suit and wondering if my grey (not light) suit will cut the mustard.
Why the mixed info from other sites? Is it controversial and safer just to buy a black suit?
Hey Mark,
Thanks for the comment.
If this is the one occasion in a blue moon you’d need a black suit, I’d say you’re fine with the dark grey (especially if peak lapel).
Make sure to wear black shoes (unless you have some funky tuxedo loafers, for some flare), keep the tie black and pocket square white, with a white french cuff shirt.
For several years I wore a navy blue peak lapel suit for my “black tie optional” before I had the ongoing need for a tux / more fun smoking jackets.
Hope that helps.
Thanks – Paul Anthony
How about British Tan shoes with a Navy suit to a black tie optional event? My black shoes don’t look great with my navy suit.
Hi Cody,
Hmmmm, British Tan is a little too light for navy if you ask me. Although black shoes would be ideal, darker browns such as Cordovan or Oxblood would be acceptable. However, when it’s specifically a black tie optional event, I’d be hesitant to wear anything but black.
Best,
CP
Hi, what about a dark burgundy suit and trousers. Black shirt. Burgundy tie, same as the suit and trousers
Hi Richie,
Personally, a burgundy suit sounds more like something to wear as cocktail attire. However, if it’s very dark, it might be okay.
Nevertheless, I’d switch out the burgundy tie for a black one so that it’s closer to the dress code.
How does that sound?
Best,
CP
Hi,
What is more appropriate? The suit with slim-fit feature or regular fit?
Hi Iqbal,
Both are fine but your body type plays an important role here. You can learn more with our guide to men’s body types.
Best,
CP
When selecting a suit for my black tie optional event (work banquet) the fellow in store (suitsupply) recommended a mid lightness grey birds eye suit with some nice texture. Along with that he recommended some black Venetian loafers like what you have mentioned, black silk tie, white shirt, black leather belt and black pocket square same material as the tie. I love the suit but am wondering if I’ll stick out.
Hi Tyler,
Hmmm, you might stick out a little bit but if you love the suit, I’d say go for it! Black tie optional does normally suggest a dark suit but birdseye tends to have black stitching to create the effect.
My only comment is to refrain from a black pocket square if it matches the tie too much. I’d instead opt for a white one that matches the shirt instead. It’s more classic and will rein in the forward-fashion look with something conventional.
Best,
CP
What are your thoughts on a charcoal gray blazer with black pants and black shoes and black tie for black tie optional?
– Jordan
Dear Jordan,
I would just make sure there is enough contrast between the blazer and the trousers (color and / or material) to make is 100% obvious they are not form the same suit. Also being different shall add more of a visual interest.
Aside from that, I can’t see why if would not work.
Cheers – Paul
Hi Paul,
Thanks so much for all this. I have a black tie optional summer wedding, and I already have a dark blue tuxedo jacket with black stitching throughout and black (velvet!) lapels…never worn it. Would it work with black suit separate pants? And then of course a white shirt / black bow tie / black shoes.
Dear DM,
All sounds good to me! The only thing that might throw me off is velvet lapels for the summer, but if the wedding festivities roll into the evening shall be fine.
Have a great time!
– Paul
What about a blue suit with black checkered pattern, white shirt and a purple tie?
Dear Luis,
Sounds okay to me. You’ll be the best judge on how formal to go for a “Black Tie Optional” event.
The more more the more muted you should be i.e. closer to black tie.
However, with that being said location such as near the coast, and in the summer can introduce brighter color options like the purple tie. If we were in the winter I’d say deep purple, but on summer can go lighter for sure.
Cheers – Paul
Hi,
My husband and I are attending a black tie optional wedding in LA early October. We live in DC.
My husband owns no formal attire and plans to rent a tux for the event. I don’t own a tux and was planning to do the same, but now I’m considering two options from my own wardrobe.
My favorite is a skinny fit, double breasted, peak lapel, but it’s a micro check and dark charcoal brown. Can I do that? The other option is a regular slim fit notch lapel solid dark navy.
Also, how do you feel about a light cream shirt as opposed to white?
Thanks!
Chris
Dear Chris,
As it shall be warm in LA still in October, and the West Coast in inherently more casual there is more wiggle-room. [Depending on the venue and bride / groom]
I personally prefer to go more formal than not however, but that’s just me. But as its stated “optional”, you have options!
If you’re not looking to buy something new, then I’d say that DB number sounds like a good option. I’m not a fan of notch lapels (although the navy may be a more appropriate color), as too informal for my tastes at a wedding and the peak lapels are more flattering for 99% of men.
Can’t see any issues with the cream shirt (although I believe one cannot beat a fine white shirt as the best base for any ensemble), just make sure you tie and pocket square (of different pattern / fabric to tie) complement that more muted cream over a crisp white.
Enjoy your trip to LA!
– Paul
Long story short, my husband lost a lot of weight and the new jacket he had simply does not fit. The black tie optional wedding is tomorrow and we are miles from home. He has a gorgeous deep burgundy grape shirt and matching tie, good black dress slacks and new black dress shoes. Since it’s still summer and Chicago and he would take it off anyway, how kosher is it to go with no jacket at all? It would be a miracle to find one now. ???? He is family, if he looks nice is anyway going to care? I don’t know what to do.
Dear Julie,
That’s a tough spot! If you’re in the middle of nowhere and can’t find another jacket you have no choice (if close to something, Macys, JCP, Men’s Wearhosue, and even Walmart (I once bought a Harris Tweed jacket in there!!!) might be some quick choices).
If that’s the case. I’d say the saving grace is the dark shirt color. At the ceremony a white shirt many have stood out like a sore thumb!
And as you say as the festivities get going into the evening most gentlemen shall remove their jackets (although not “technically” correct.
Sure the family shall understand, and have a great day!
– Paul
We don’t have a strict dress code in our wedding, but I need to know is it possible to wear dark blue tuxedo, white shirt and standard light grey tie, something like here https://tuxedorental.jcpenney.com/Product/allure-men-slate-blue-tux
we’ve already bougt all I’ve mentioned, but today I’me reading your article for the first time and so doubt our choice…
Is it possible to wear black leather belt with the tuxedo or a vest is required?
Looking forward for your answer
Hi Kate,
Thanks for your comment.
Traditionally, tuxedos shouldn’t come with belt loops so normally they aren’t worn with a belt. If the one you have purchased is indeed a proper tuxedo, I’d be surprised if there are some. However, if it’s a regular suit, this should be fine.
If it is a traditional tuxedo then it’s better to wear one with either a vest or cummerbund. Nevertheless, this might be too formal for your tastes for a black tie optional event.
Otherwise, a midnight blue tux and white shirt are a great combination. Presuming that it is a tuxedo and not a regular suit, I would suggest a bow tie. However, if it’s a regular suit, then a regular necktie is fine. If you wear a straight tie with a tuxedo, it may give the impression that you’re not very comfortable and don’t want to commit to the attire.
For instance, you may have noted above that we have a graphic with a man in a black suit and straight tie on the left while there’s a man with a blue tuxedo and bow tie on the right. Both are appropriate for black tie optional events but the trick is not to mix the styles too much.
Hope this helps!
All the best,
CP
Dear Charles-Philippe,
Thank you a lot for your comment, so nice and detailed for me. Now I understand much more, so I think that the garment we have https://voronin.ua/ru/model/6/ seems to be a suit with satin collar, but not real tuxedo, isn’t it? If it is a suit, my groom can wear it with a regular necktie and a leather belt.
Hi Kate,
It does appear to be a tuxedo. In fact, the satin lapel is a tuxedo characteristic but you do seem to see it more with more casual jackets these days.
The real question is whether the trousers have belt loops as “real” tuxedos don’t. From what you’ve already said, though, I understand that you’ve already prepared this ensemble with the tuxedo, necktie, and belt. If both of you feel happy with this choice, I see no reason why he shouldn’t wear it.
Поздравляем с помолвкой!
All the best,
CP
Thank you a lot for your advice and congratulation!
Best regards,
Kate and Gena
You’re very welcome!
All the best,
CP
Have a black tie optional wedding tomorrow (just realized it is black tie optional), i do have a black suit and tie i could wear but was thinking of wearing a blue (not navy but darker than royal blue three piece) suit. do you think that would can be done? if so would you go dark brown shoes with a blue tie or black shoes and tie?
Hi Jon,
Usually, we’d recommend black as the guide states above but this should be fine. As for the shoes, you can check out our colour coordination guide with blue trousers. Brown shoes and a blue suit is touch and go but there is an element of discretion involved.
All the best,
CP
My husband and I were invited to a “Black Tie – Optional” wedding. My husband does not own a tux but has a nice black suit. I was thinking a white wing tip shirt (no pleats) with black bow tie to dress it up a bit. Would that be okay? Should he wear leather or patent leather shoes? Black button covers or plain. Or should I forget the whole thing of trying to look like a tux and just opt for a narrow black tie with the suit?
Thanks!!!
Hi Renée,
I would refrain from wearing a regular black suit as a tuxedo as it may looking like an unusual marriage of different dress codes. I would recommend that your husband opts for the black suit with a regular necktie instead. Patent shoes might be fine with these, however, for adding some flair to the overall ensemble.
Best,
CP
Hey Charles,
I have a black tie optional wedding this weekend and I wanted to wear a nice crisp black suit and black tie with my black patent leather shoes. But for my shirt I wanted to wear a burgundy colored dress shirt to match my wife’s burgundy full length dress. Faux pas or nah?
Hi Joe,
If it’s a nicely tailored dress shirt, this look could go quite well indeed. It sounds like you’ve pulled all the stops with a black suit and tie with patent leather shoes too.
I like the approach in according with your wife’s attire!
Best,
CP
Hi CP,
I’ll be attending my first Black Tie Optional Winter Gala for Charity. This is all new to me and I’m a bit lost. This is the suit ill be wearing: https://bit.ly/2P2mtdj. A few questions for you if you don’t mind. Should I wear a regular tie or a bowtie? Is burgandy ok or should I stick to black? Last but not least, should I wear cufflinks? If so, should they match my tie or suit? Thanks so much!
Hi Matt,
No problem! The suit that you’re wearing looks absolutely fine for black tie optional.
With this, the burgundy tie sounds good if it’s quite dark. As for the cufflinks, they can either stand apart or match the tie.
Best,
CP
Hi CP,
My husband and I are going to a black tie optional wedding this weekend, he has a navy blue suit ( 3 piece) and dark brown shoes, (he doesn’t want to buy black shoes) what color of shirt and tie/bow tie do you think he should he wear? Thank you so much
Hi Samantha,
Thanks for the comment.
Black shoes would be ideal for this dress code. However, I’m sure that he’ll look great in brown shoes nonetheless if they’re a particularly formal style.
In order to offset this potential casualness of the brown shoes, I’d only opt for a white dress shirt. If it’s possible, French cuffs would add a certain dressy flair that would really bring it home.
As for the bow tie, perhaps a dark shade of red? It would go well with the navy blue and offer just the right level of contrast while potentially complementing the shoes. It may also be a nice seasonal addition.
Finally, maybe consider adding a pocket square as a final touch. I’d recommend a plain white cotton one as a safe play.
All the best,
CP
Do you have to wear a vest with the black suit?
Hi Chris,
No, not necessarily. While we always enjoying waistcoats, it’s by no means an obligation.
All the best,
CP
Thanks for the info!
No problem, and hope it was helpful!
Cheers – Paul
Good morning CP,
I have a “black tie optional” wedding to attend in Woodside, Ca this upcoming July. The venue and all accompanying wedding festivities are going to be quite ritzy so I plan on trying to look my best. I found your article very informative but was a bit deflated when in the last paragraph you mention “wisely refuses to rent one” regarding the attire/tux/suit. Why is this? I’m a blue collar guy that very rarely has the need to dress up this formally. I had planned on renting a tux or dark suit from MW.
Bad move? What other routes do I have other than spending several hundred dollars purchasing my outfit?
Glad I stumbled across your page. Thanks for any and all assistance!
~Patrick
Dear Patrick,
Thank you for your comment, as this is a common concern. Rentals do have their place, but 99% of the time we feel the cost benefit of doing so is not warranted.
If you don’t currently own a suit, it might be a good time to invest in one. A rental is going to cost you $150 to $200, and you have to deal with in most cases poor fit, and having to return immediately. If however you buy a custom suit from the likes of Indochino (use code “BespokeUnit” to get an additional $30 off your order) in dark grey (NOT black) or navy blue then you’ll have it forever! The total cost with the coupon can bring it sub $300.
Then if you have more weddings, funerals, date nights, etc.. you have a go to suit. Then the cost per wear can do into the tens of dollars per wear, opposed to hundred plus for a rental.
For this kind of wedding, I’d wear a navy blue suit (two button, wide peak lapel), with a white french cuff shirt and then a black tie / bow tie if being formal. Or can spice it up a bit with a more colorful pocket square and even a lapel flower!
Hope that helps and let us know how you get on…
Cheers – Paul
Thank you so much for your response! That all makes lots of sense. I guess in my mind I was thinking a decent suit would run me close to $1,000 or more. I visited the website you mention and see that I can get a nice suit after sales / markdown pricing for roughly $300. So yes, to only spend $100 more and own it makes far more sense then renting. Again I’m really glad I stumbled across your site. You’ve been most helpful!
Hi Patrick,
We’re glad to be of assistance! Like Paul says, Indochino does offer outstanding value for money. We’re writing up a review of our experience but you can learn more about the brand and its manufacturing processes with our detailed brand guide.
With regards to the coupon Paul gave you, it’s also valid in their showrooms and can be combined with other sales and discount codes. If there’s an Indochino store near you, you can also make an appointment for a fitting by one of their professionals. This avoids any mistakes that might be made when doing them yourself for submitting online.
All the best,
CP
The wedding I’m attending has a welcome party the evening before with “summer cocktail attire” as the dress code. Would the navy suit you suggested purchasing be acceptable to wear both evenings? If so how would you suggest pulling it off so that it doesn’t look like I’m wearing the same outfit?
Hi Patrick,
Yes, you could wear the same for both.
For a start, I would suggest that you purchase a waistcoat with the suit so you can alternate between the two. You can either wear it in the evening when it’s cooler or during the day if it’s a more formal event.
Then I would switch the tie and pocket square out for another colour scheme.
How does that sound?
Best,
CP
Great page and insights. I too have an upcoming BTO wedding to attend, and planned to sneak by with my Ken Cole Techi-Cole suit (see Macy’s) in blue. But, have some hesitations after reading the q&a. I would accompany suit with crisp white shirt, white pocket square, black tie/belt/shoes. The suit fits fantastic, and I’m not keen on renting/buying black. Again, only hesitation is due to the royal blue color.
Thoughts?
Thanks for the great read
Hi James,
Happy to help. I’ll have to think about that one as navy or midnight blue would be fine in a pinch but this sounds a shade bright. Could you share a link of the suit in question?
You can leave a comment with either an Instagram link or even via https://unsee.cc/
Best,
CP
Hi Charles-Philippe,
I have the exact same question for black-tie optional event. I’m thinking of dressing pretty much like the guy in the link here for a Californian wedding in October. Is the color appropriate?
Hey Chris,
That color isn’t too offensive for a black tie optional event, but you’d be safer with a darker color suit.
Rafael
Hello CP,
I’m getting ready for a Optional Black Tie event in West Palm Beach, FL in mid-April.
I have an medium-dark grey tux with matching vest and a black suit. Assuming the shirt (white), tie (black both options bow and long), shoes black formal, etc are all the same on either option, which is the better choice? Given its Florida I thought there may be some flexibility on the tux color not being dark grey.
Thank you and much appreciated,
Mark
Hi Mark,
If it’s indeed a tuxedo in dark grey, you’ll probably be able to get away with it! It’s a controversial and unusual colour but if it has the right details, you should be able to pull it off nicely.
Best,
CP
I was just informed of a “black tie optional” event less that 48 hours from now and don’t have time to get anything. I have a navy blue suit that no longer get fits anywhere near properly (I’m 30+ lbs heavier now) or a navy blazer and grey pants. What’s your take in my options?
Hi Frank,
If you’ve read this guide then you probably know already that a tuxedo would be ideal. However, we’re very much aware that what’s ideal and what’s a reality doesn’t always converge! I also sympathise as I have also gained about the same amount of weight recently.
We believe that the fit of your clothes takes precedence. Therefore, I suggest that you wear the navy blazer and grey pants. If you can, wear it with a black bow tie, white shirt, and a pair of formal black shoes. Hopefully, this should offset the casual aspect of you jacket and trousers quite nicely.
All the best,
CP
Than you for your suggestions! I appreciate the help.
I hope it works out!
Hi. Is it OK to wear a bowtie and a shirt with studs (like a tuxedo) with a standard black suit, or am I better off with a standard dress shirt??
Hi Jim,
I would suggest that you just wear a standard dress shirt if you’re wearing a normal black suit. A stud shirt may look a little out of place.
Best,
CP
Would you consider dark grey or charcoal knit suit appropriate for a black tie optional wedding in August? The material is polyester and viscose. I have a suit in that color.
If it’s dark then that should be fine to wear as long as the knit thread isn’t too bold.
Best,
CP
For a black tie optional-wedding in sept. My husband has black dress pants and a black and dark blue small check jacket. Would this work with white or med. blue shirt and black tie and shoes?
Hi Libby,
It’s hard to picture the jacket but from you’ve described, it sounds a little too casual for this event. I would also refrain from mixing your jacket and trousers for this particular dress code if possible. If no other options are available, it should be fine. However, I would recommend wearing a more formal jacket.
Best,
CP
Hi, I have black tie optional christmas event in work, is it possible to go with Dark blue/dark navy suit and light brown shoes?
Hi John,
A dark blue or navy suit is fine but I strongle suggest that you invest in black shoes. Although there are some exceptions, light brown rarely works with navy and it would certainly not be fitting to the dress code to wear them to the Christmas event.
We have a guide to the best black dress shoes if you’re interested.
Best,
CP
Hi Charles, I’ve been invited to an awards event mid December. Dress is Black Tie Optional and the “theme” is 007 (Insurance Agent Awards Gala). I’ve never owned a suit and I’m really not too excited about the additional cost of purchasing a jacket just for this one event. Could I get by – without strange looks – if I omitted the jacket completely and just wore a shirt, dark tie, and dark grey slacks?
Thanks for the advice.
Hi Jack,
In most occasions like these, it’s expected that you wear a jacket. You’ll probably get a few strange looks if that doesn’t bother you. Also, some venues may not accept entry if you don’t have one either so you might want to check ahead.
Best,
CP
Attending a black tie optional company Christmas party. I have black suit, black belt, black shoes. I want to flash it up a little with a lavender or blue shirt, and a patterned tie and pocket square with both colors in them. So either shirt will work. Is is a coctail, dinner, dancing event.6:30pm to 2 am.
Is my planned attire acceptable?
Hi Antonio,
I’d personally opt for a white shirt but this sounds absolutely fine!
Best,
CP
Greetings Charles,
Being invited to a 3pm black tie optional outdoor wedding (vineyard and reception in barn) – would I be out of place donning a navy Zegna suit, light blue or white shirt perhaps Eton with French cuffs, burgundy whole cut oxfords, and here is the controversial and interesting proposition – a well paired ascot instead of a traditional neck tie?
Hey Mick,
Thanks for your comment! The wedding you mention sounds like it’s going to be a great time and even more so seeing as how you’re deeply invested in sporting a dapper look. The ascot sounds like a great choice as long as it’s well-paired, as you denote.
I guess there is a question for you here – how many of the other guests do you expect to go in traditional black tie, and if it’s most of the guests (it usually isn’t with black tie optional but depends on the circle,) how concerned are you about standing out with your attire? Much of this comes down to confidence and with your suggested fit, it sounds like you’re very confident in your sense of style.
Another thing to note – are you referring to a traditional ascot or a cravat? Not sure if you’ve made your way through these already, but we do have some relevant guides on the topic:
https://bespokeunit.com/suits/ascot/
https://bespokeunit.com/suits/cravats/
https://bespokeunit.com/suits/ascot-cravat-difference/
Rafael
In June I have a black tie optional wedding in New Orleans and have a charcoal custom fit suit with a matching vest and white shirt. Sometimes I like to change it up a little. You mentioned no patterns for the tie. What about a black on black paisley vest with the charcoal suit? Would that vest be too dressy for the suit? What are your thoughts on ascots? I have a silk solid black color ascot I can tie in a Ruche Knot (Scrunchie Knot) . Should I stick to the matching charcoal vest and dark solid color tie? What about the matching charcoal vest with the black ascot? I think my last post got deleted, so I took out the video link to the ascot tie.
Hey there Sivada,
Your last post wasn’t deleted, it just had to wait for us to approve on our end.
From the possibilities you mention, I’d suggest opting for the matching vest and suit with the solid color tie. In this case, I’d refrain from the paisley vest or ascot, unless you think you can really pull off the latter. It could be worthwhile to get a sense of how other guests may dress and see if the more casual nature of the ascot would be a good fit, though this sounds possible seeing as how the wedding is in New Orleans.
Best,
Rafael
I was thinking the black ascot with a scrunchie knot was more formal. Maybe the mixture makes it more casual?
Thanks for the reply. It’s given me something to think about.
You’re correct! Ascots did use to be more formal, however, they’ve become more casual in recent times as they’ve fallen out of favor and are more commonly used to add color to an ensemble.
Hi, I am a musician, playing at a Black Tie event, would it be appropriate to wear a black dress hat with proper suit while performing?
Hey Dan,
As the performer at a black tie event, I think it’s a great idea to wear a dress hat with your suit! It’s not traditional but I think it would work well in your position.
Rafael
Have a black tie optional wedding I am a guest at soon, planning on wearing a black suit with white shirt. What color tie would you wear? the wedding is at night and the venue looks quite formal. Would like to blend in some color but would a black tie be best with a colored pocket square?
Hey Reginald,
Check out our black tie guide for some ideas on mixing in color with a black suit/tux (https://bespokeunit.com/suits/dress-codes/black-tie/)
Rafael