While black-tie attire isn’t as formal as it gets (white-tie attire is the highest level of fancy fashion), the black-tie wedding dress code is more common among wedding parties and invitees today.
How can you achieve the elegance and glamor of the perfect black-tie wedding?
The Modern Groom is ready to help you with your Great Gatsby-esque wedding celebrations with all the inspiration you need to throw the black-tie wedding affair of the year.
WHAT IS A BLACK-TIE WEDDING DRESS CODE?
Keep the loud prints and bold-colored suits for your Disney dinner cruises or flashy high school reunions because black-tie wedding dress codes are all about formality and sophistication. When a wedding couple announces they’ll be having a black-tie wedding, guests can expect a more formal event. This type of wedding consists of a traditional ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and a reception.
If an invitation states “black-tie optional,” this is usually the couple’s way of nicely saying, “Please dress up, but if for some reason you can’t dress this way, we would still love you to come in your best-dressed attire.”
For thoughtful couples that understand how expensive life is right now, they may give this optional disclaimer. The option prevents guests from opting out of attending just because they don’t have black-tie wedding outfits on standby in their closets.
WHAT IS BLACK-TIE WEDDING ATTIRE?
Black-tie wedding attire for men can include:
- black tuxedo
- black bow tie
- white dress shirt
- vest or cumberbund
- black formal shoes
- silk pocket square
- cufflinks
Channel the vibes of your favorite fictional British secret agent, James Bond!
What are women wearing to a black-tie wedding? Floor-length ball gowns and mid-length cocktail dresses are the safest options. If the couple leans more toward black-tie optional, then a detailed jumpsuit might also work here.
BLACK-TIE AND WEDDING SUITS FOR THE GROOM AND GROOMSMEN
A black-tie wedding celebrates darker colors for both suits and dresses. The groom should be the star of the show in a black tuxedo like Hollywood’s icons on the red carpet. Meanwhile, the groomsmen can also sport tuxedos. The groom can also find other ways to differentiate himself.
Another option is putting the wedding party in a more standard black suit. Midnight navy blue and charcoal gray are also dark and subtle options, making them a great choice for groomsmen. But, when in doubt, reach for the tux. Period.
BLACK-TIE WEDDING DRESS CODE INSPIRATION
Do you ever worry that the color you’re seeing on your screen isn’t the true color of the garment? For example, a viral dress in 2015 started mass online arguments over whether the dress was blue and black or white and gold.
In an age of filters and Photoshop, it’s tough to trust what you see online. During your complimentary consultation with The Modern Groom, we’ll show you our portfolio of real suits and tuxedos worn by real people. This way, you can see their true colors. Here are some of our favorite black-tie wedding looks from happy families who chose The Modern Groom!
WHERE TO SHOP FOR BLACK-TIE WEDDING ATTIRE
Skip the sloppy and boxy suit rentals that never fit and opt for your own professionally fitted suit for almost the same price. The Modern Groom’s selection of black-tie wedding attire makes owning a wedding day suit or tux a no-brainer.
The best part is the shopping experience can be 100% virtual. Take your measurements from your couch at home or during your lunch break at work. Then, consult with one of our wedding specialists and sit back and relax. Well, relax as much as possible while planning the biggest day of your life until the suit arrives at your door. After arrival, meet with your local tailor (Mom or Grandma) to make minor adjustments like a pant hem!
Ready to get started? Browse one of our black-tie wedding tuxedos or suit packages at The Modern Groom.
