Guide To Your Formalwear Needs

Question about what to wear to your next formal event; our short and simple guidelines are sure to help.

"Black Tie"

Black tie means formal attire, a tuxedo.

"White Tie" or "Full Dress"

Traditional black tailcoat is needed.  With it wear a white wing collar shirt, white pique vest, white tie.  Wear classic black patent formal shoes to complete.

"Black Tie Preferred"

Prefers guest ot wear formal evening attire.  Black Classic tuxedo, White Dinner jacket with formal black pants (only Easter through Labor Day), or Black contemporary tuxedo is needed.  No tailcoats.

"Black Tie Optional"

Formal dress is appropriate and acceptable.  Black Classic tuxedo, White Dinner jacket with formal black pants (only Easter through Labor Day),  or a Black contemporary tuxedo.  No tailcoats.

"Black Tie Invited"

Formal attire is welcome but not required.  Refer to black tie optional.

"Semi-Formal"

If you are in a strict and proper social circle this means Black Tie.  Semi-Formal allows any style fo Tuxedo or Dinner Jacket.  With this event common sense and good tast come into play.  Generally though if a lady wears a floor-length formal evening gown to this event then her escort should wear formal attire also. 

If there is a question about the dress requirements then call the host or hostess for guidance for this special occasion.