White Tie vs Black Tie Dress code

January 2, 2025

Most people have heard of a White Tie or Black Tie dress code, but perhaps have never explored what each dress code demands. After all, it is pretty exciting to receive an invitation to a formal event, but to get one that states a Black or White Tie dress code is the icing on the cake so to speak! In short, both are the most formal of events with White Tie being the top of the formal scale, and Black Tie being next in line. If you have been invited to a formal event, it is advisable to ask the host which dress code is expected. Wearing White tie to a Black tie event would be acceptable, but to wear Black tie to a White tie event, would be completely inappropriate. We have listed below some differences to make it crystal clear for our readers, to avoid any clothing faux pas in the future!

What is Black Tie Attire?

Black tie is a formal evening wear dress code. It is most commonly worn to formal weddings, dinners, balls or parties, and generally associated with events that take place post 5pm. It consists of the following:

A black waist length dinner jacket/tuxedo which has satin detailing. The distinctive jacket features a satin shawl lapel, satin buttons and is paired with trousers that have a satin stripe down the leg.
A white ‘dress’ shirt which has a pique or pleated front. A pique shirt is crease resistant owing to the fact that it is made using two fabrics, tightly woven together creating a subtle textured pattern, resulting in the shirt remaining sharp all night long. A pleated front shirt has full length pleats either side of the buttons at the front. Both shirts have a full-length sleeve with a double cuff.
A black bow tie and matching cummerbund.
Black patent shoes with black socks.

What is White Tie Attire?

White tie is also known as ‘full evening dress’, or ‘evening tails’, and may only ever be worn to evening events. If this dress code is required, it will usually mean guests of high social standing will be present such as royals, high level diplomats or other titled individuals. Events such as exclusive galas, special dinners and other royal events will require White tie dress code. It is the most formal of all dress codes with the strictest of requirements. White tie dress code consists of the following:

An evening tailcoat, to be worn unbuttoned, which has satin peak lapels. It is waist length at the front and sides, with two tails at the back which reach the knees.
Trousers that match the fabric of the jacket, featuring a double line of braids down the outer seam of the trouser legs.
A white evening shirt with a winged collar and bib.
A white waistcoat in pique cotton, which is cut in a deep ‘U’ or ‘V’ shape at the front. Most importantly, it must be long enough to cover the waistband of the trousers but must not be longer than the tailcoat at the front.
A white, hand-tied bow tie in silk or pique cotton.
Shirt studs and cufflinks (mother of pearl is a preferable option).
Black patent shoes and black socks.
A white pocket square is a nice addition.

Hint: Never wear a wristwatch. It is considered ill-mannered to be mindful of time in the company of distinguished guests. If you have been invited to an event requiring Black or White tie dress code and would like some further guidance or advice to ensure you are correctly attired, please do not hesitate to contact us or visit us in store at Shepherd and Woodward.