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WHAT NOT TO WEAR TO A BLACK TIE EVENT

Black-tie events are the epitome of elegance and sophistication. It’s a chance to dress to the nines and celebrate in style. But with such a formal dress code, navigating what not to wear can be tricky. Fear not! This guide will unveil the fashion faux pas to avoid, ensuring you arrive at your next black-tie event looking polished and put-together. We’ll cover everything from the garments you should leave at home to subtle accessory slip-ups. By the end, you’ll be ready to confidently conquer the black-tie dress code!

BLACK-TIE DRESS CODE

Black-tie events are a celebration of sophistication. They’re a chance to step into a world of elegance and refinement. But with such a formal dress code, navigating what to wear can feel like a minefield. Before we dive into the essential “do’s and don’ts,” let’s establish a solid foundation: understanding what black-tie truly means.

A Spectrum of Formality: Black-tie isn’t the only dress code out there. It exists on a spectrum alongside others like white-tie (even more formal), semi-formal, and casual. You might have wondered, “What exactly is formal wedding attire?” or “How does black-tie differ from white-tie?” While these distinctions might seem confusing at first, each code has its own set of rules.

Black-Tie’s Rich History: Black-tie stands tall as one of the most formal dress codes. Its roots trace back to the 1800s Regency Period, where it established itself as the epitome of elegant attire for special occasions. While it has evolved slightly over time, the core principles of sophistication and refinement remain.

In Essence: Elegance Reigns Supreme: Black-tie is all about exuding elegance. Think tuxedos, black bow ties, and polished shoes for the gentlemen. Ladies traditionally don floor-length gowns. The overall objective? Dress to impress with the most refined attire you possess.

COMMON MISTAKES MADE BY MEN

Looking sharp in a black-tie event isn’t just about men. Here are some key mistakes to steer clear of for a flawless black-tie look:

Suit Mishap: There’s an unwritten rule – tuxedos reign supreme at black-tie events. A suit, while sharp, isn’t the same. Curious about the difference? We have a whole guide on that [link to your article on suit vs. tuxedo].  Rocking a suit at a tuxedo-filled event will make you stand out, but not in a good way.

Accessory Ambush:  First-time black-tie attendees often confuse “black-tie” with a black necktie. Here’s the truth: a black bowtie is the only acceptable tie option.  Keep it simple with accessories – a cummerbund and cufflinks are optional, but that’s about it.

Fit Fiasco:  A perfect fit is paramount for a black-tie ensemble.  A baggy tux, ill-fitting pants, or long sleeves can ruin the whole look. Don’t settle for close-enough – visit a tailor to ensure your tux hugs your frame flawlessly.

Casual Catastrophe: Black-tie leans formal, but there’s a line between formal and overdressed (think white-tie with a tailcoat). Avoid anything too casual. Black dress shoes are a must – ditch the loafers for this occasion.

COMMON MISTAKE MADE BY WOMEN 

Opting for a cocktail dress: While cocktail dresses can lean towards formality, they fall short of the black-tie standard for women. Steer clear of cocktail attire to ensure you blend seamlessly with other female guests adorned in their elegant floor-length gowns.

Vibrant colors: Darker hues generally exude sophistication and are the safer bet for black-tie events. As advised by Corporette, even if the dress code isn’t explicitly black-tie, selecting a black or muted-colored dress remains a wise choice, albeit certain events may permit colorful attire.

Short or revealing outfits: In the realm of black-tie events, modesty is key. Dresses that are excessively short or revealing can be deemed inappropriate and discomforting to others. Opt for longer dresses with refined silhouettes to exude elegance without crossing any boundaries.

Inappropriate footwear: Footwear should exude elegance and refinement. As celebrity stylist Sarah Nearis suggests, while it’s acceptable to have some fun with your footwear, prioritize classy and chic options over extravagant choices like platform pumps or knee-high lace-up sandals.

THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF ACCESSORIES

Accessories can add a nice touch to your black-tie outfit, but you have to be careful not to overdo it. Men should go for a black bowtie and a slim, golden dress watch, along with simple cufflinks. Women can wear their best jewelry, like diamond earrings, bracelets, and rings, but it’s better to choose smaller pieces.

The important thing to remember is not to wear too many accessories. Just a few subtle ones are enough to complete your look. You don’t want to look overly flashy or covered in accessories from head to toe. Instead, pick a couple of items and let your outfit, like your tuxedo, gown, and dress shoes, do most of the talking.

WEDDING-SPECIFIC FAUX PAS

When attending a black-tie wedding, it’s crucial to consider additional factors beyond just the dress code. Take into account the wedding’s theme and venue to ensure your attire aligns appropriately and doesn’t overshadow the bride and groom. Here are some common wedding-related mistakes to steer clear of:

  • Avoid stealing the spotlight from the couple – Remember, the focus should always be on the newlyweds. Refrain from wearing white attire, overly flashy accessories, or excessively colorful clothing that may draw attention away from them.
  • Stay on-theme – Many weddings adhere to a specific theme, which often dictates the dress code and overall atmosphere. Be sure to select an outfit that not only adheres to the dress code but also complements the theme of the wedding.
  • Don’t underdress – Opting for casual or semi-formal attire at a black-tie wedding can disrupt the desired elegance and ambiance of the event. To honor the significance of the occasion, choose a smart and formal black-tie ensemble that contributes to the overall grandeur of the celebration.

FAQ

1. What colors should I avoid? 

Bright and overly colorful dresses are best left for other occasions. Black-tie favors a more subdued palette: black, navy blue, deep jewel tones, etc.

2. Can my dress be short or revealing? 

Black-tie is about modesty and sophistication. Opt for longer dresses with sophisticated silhouettes and avoid anything too short or revealing.

3. What kind of shoes should I wear? 

Heels are a good choice, but keep them elegant. Skip the sky-high platforms or knee-high sandals. Strappy sandals or sleek pumps are perfect for a black-tie look.

CONCLUSION 

Not as diverse in costumes as at music parties or disco parties, a black tie event has its own dress code. By following the principles outlined in the article and avoiding common fashion mistakes, you will achieve a smart and appropriate look for black tie affairs. Remember, black tie events are about celebrating elegance and sophistication. When in doubt, lean towards formality and choose outfits that exude timeless style and class. Don’t forget – confidence is the ultimate accessory, so rock your outfit and have a great time!

Confidently Walk into the Office in the Best First Day of Work Outfit

To all the female office workers out there, we understand that you guys are nervous for the first day at work, especially the first impression that you’re gonna make. We all want to appear professional, so it’s important to pay attention to what you’re going to wear. If you’re struggling, let us help you find the best first day of work outfit.

Classic Blazer and Trousers

One of the most classic, safest options for an office outfit is a blazer with trousers as they have always been a staple of professionalism and office work for years, that’s why they should be in your closet most of the time. We recommend you go for a blazer that is in neutral colors, because no one wants to be too colorful for the first day, and a dark-color pair of trousers. You can also wear a turtleneck or a white blouse underneath for a more office look. For footwear, just grab anything you want, but we think this outfit looks best with classic pumps or loafers. And remember, to tuck your blouse in.

Photo from Corporette

Pencil Skirt and Button-Up Shirt 

For those who are more into feminine outfits, a skirt will definitely be perfect for you. You have seen most office women wear this combo so why don’t you try them out. The most important part to take into consideration is the skirt. Go for ones that flatter your natural curves without showing too much, and ones that are in black or gray. You can also wear skirts that have patterns on them, as long as you don’t break the workplace dress code. About the shirt, there is a huge range of styles and designs that you can choose from, all of them are fine but shirts that are simple and appropriate should be prioritized. To finish the whole look, put on a nice, stylish yet subtle pair of high heels or pumps.

Photo from Just a Tina Bit

Sheath Dress and Cardigan 

If you want to wear a dress to work but have no idea how to mix them, a sheath dress and a cardigan are what you need. When it comes to choosing a perfect dress for work, pay attention to the length, you might want them to be knee-length as this is perfect for office work. But don’t forget to look pretty even at work, so a sheath dress that can accentuate your curves subtly would be great. You can also add a layer of cardigan for warmth as well. Opt for a cardigan in a complementary color that coordinates well with the dress. Neutral colors like black, gray, or navy work well, but you can also experiment with colors that suit your personal style. Consider wearing closed-toe shoes or high heels that match the formality of your workplace. To bring your stuff with you all the way, a bag will definitely help you a lot, especially designer work bags for women as they have every function that a girl needs in a bag.

Photo from Pacific Landing

Jeans and Sweater 

We know that office workers are the most productive when they’re comfortable, and formal clothes feel kind of unpleasant to wear, that’s why you should try out a jeans and sweater outfit. You can wear any kind of jeans in the office, as long as they’re appropriate and suitable for the dress code. Go for those with fitted designs that look flattering on your body figure. A sweater that is made of fine knit or a soft cashmere blend with a classic design will give you a very polished vibe, which is wonderful in the office environment. This outfit is also perfect for a running-errand days or going out.

Photo from Repeller

Silk Shirt Outfit

To look elegant and classic for a day at work, you might want to wear a silk shirt, but don’t know how to dress them up, then here we will provide with you some silk shirt outfit ideas. To choose the best shirt for you, the one that complements your skin tone should be on your shopping list. Classic colors like white, black, or navy are timeless options that can be matched with all bottoms, from dressy skirts to tailored trousers. Finish off your outfit with any kind of footwear, you can create your professional work outfits with booties, flat shoes or high heels.

Photo from Meagan’s Moda

Midi Dress and Blazer

Another dressy outfit for work on our list is a midi dress and blazer. You might think this doesn’t sound very formal but if you know how to dress them, they’re perfect for a workday. Firstly, you should choose a dress that has a simple yet flattering design, and it should be in neutral colors like black, beige or navy. And keep in mind that the dress must be appropriate for the office environment. Add a tailored blazer to elevate the look and add a touch of professionalism. The shade of the blazer should match the dress for a more cohesive look. You can also add a belt to define your silhouette.

Photo from My Name is Lovely!

Dress Pants and Blouse 

If you like to look pretty in a blouse at work, dress pants would definitely elevate your outfit 100 times better. Opt for a pair of well-tailored dress pants that have straight-leg or wide-leg for a professional look, and of course, neutral-color clothes are the best for offices. You should invest some money in a high-quality blouse if you want your tops to be durable and new every time you wear them. Silk, chiffon, or cotton are perfect for making a nice and gorgeous blouse. Ensure that the blouse is smooth and wrinkle-free. If the blouse is longer or has a loose fit, you can consider doing a partial front tuck or adding a belt to define the waist.

Photo from IN AN ELEGANT FASHION SHOW

A-Line Skirt and Sweater

If you want to show up at the workplace with a cozy, warm yet formal look. you can pair your favorite A-line skirt with a sweater. Like the jeans and sweater combo, a neutral, simple sweater is the best for these kinds of events. About choosing skirts, those that are fitted and flare out from your waist with high-quality fabric are definitely worth investing. Finish off with any kind of footwear you like, but we highly recommend platform heels and booties for extra warmth. You can also wear this outfit for a hang out with friends or other gathering occasions.

Photo from Hobbs

Turtleneck and Wide-Leg Pants

Another classic, formal outfit for the office are turtlenecks and wide-leg pants. This combination is perfect as they’re well-proportioned and give a longer and thinner illusion to your legs. Ensure that both the turtleneck and wide-leg pants fit you well. The turtleneck should have a close, comfortable fit without being too tight, while the wide-leg pants should sit at your natural waist and have a relaxed but tailored drape. Proper fit is crucial for achieving a polished and put-together look.

Photo from Pacific Landing

Tailored Pantsuit

For those who are having a little extra money or are not on a tight budget, a tailored pantsuit is totally worth investing. When it comes to work clothes, most people want their stuff to be highly professional and accurate in size and style, so most of them decide to get their clothes specially made for them. That’s why a tailored pantsuit is an expense that soon or late you will have to do, to elevate your professionalism. 

Photo from The Knot

Making a good first impression is more important than you think because most employers and colleagues will definitely perceive you for how you look on the first day at work. Before attending to work in a new place, pay attention to what you’re gonna wear, don’t overdress as well as underdress, go for a subtle, simple outfit with professional and natural makeup. We hope that the tips and recommendations that we provide can help you with the first day of work.