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In its most simplified form, a black tie dress code for women usually requires a full-length, evening-appropriate gown. But these days, the fashion rules can be more relaxed and most attendees will want to achieve an outfit that looks red carpet-worthy, rather than like you’ve just tangoed off the dancefloor dressed as a Strictly Come Dancing extra.
What’s the black-tie event dress code for women?
In certain scenarios a dramatic cocktail-length frock, a chic and sharp tuxedo, or even a lustrous silk jumpsuit can cut it as black tie-appropriate attire.
Here are the modern rules to follow for this trickiest of dress codes, plus plenty of suggestions as to where to shop, what to ask for, and how to style up your look without spending a fortune.
1. Take your que from the event invitation
How smart do I need to dress for a black tie event? If your first question is ‘how smart should I be dressing?’ then your initial answers can all be found on the invite. Who is the host? Where is the venue? Is the event described as a ‘gala’, a ‘premiere’, a ‘reception’, or a ‘party’? All of these factors can provide clues as to just how formal the event will really be and how seriously the dress code will be taken by both your host and the other guests.
Can I wear a jumpsuit for a black tie event? A silk jumpsuit might feel just right for your company’s black tie dinner at a local conference centre, while a black tie wedding reception at a swish hotel in Italy could feel more certainly like a full-length gown affair. Plan in advance and make sure you liaise with other guests if possible to assess how others have interpreted the invitation.
2. Start by thinking about your silhouette
Do I have to wear a long dress for a black-tie do? Are you feeling a maxi-length dress? Or would you prefer to wear a cocktail-length skirt that hits above the ankle, or could a flared jumpsuit or tailored tuxedo be more your style? It’s worth getting an idea about what silhouette you might like before you even begin shopping – Needle & Thread, TFNC, True Decadence, Ghost and Reformation are all great labels to start your search with.
Can I wear a two-piece outfit? A word to the wise; ballgown skirts with tops are totally acceptable in most circumstances, but approach any ‘princessy’ type dress with caution. Black tie dresses are – it’s worth pointing out – not supposed to look anything like wedding dresses…
3. Fabric choice is crucial
Which dress or suit style is best to wear to a black tie-event? Which brings me to my next point. If you want to find a full length gown that doesn’t read like a bridal dress or bridesmaid dress, it’s all about the materials. Satin, chiffon and richly embellished gowns tick all the right boxes for a black tie gala, but to stop the wedding associations there are a few rules.
Are there any colours I should avoid wearing to a black tie event? Avoid buying white, or any typical bridal party colours, in silhouettes that could pass as a wedding or bridesmaid gown. The below True Decadence gown, for example, works because although the colour could well be worn by a bridesmaid, the silhouette is 100% evening glamour. A few other tips from me – black satin always looks incredibly chic for black tie (and it’s so rare to see it at a wedding), while silver and navy also appear effortlessly glamorous.
4. Consider renting an outfit
Can I rent an outfit for a black tie event? A black tie do is an ideal scenario to rent a dress for – you can guarantee many of the men in attendance will be renting their tuxedos without thinking twice.
Which are the best fashion rental services? From Hurr Collective to My Wardrobe HQ, there are now several brilliant fashion services that will lend wow-gowns for big occasions, for tiny fees when compared to buying new (the former has Reformation gowns available to rent from just £15).
5. Your jewellery doesn’t need to be jewels
Do I need to wear simple, minimal jewellery? In fact, it’s far more fun if it isn’t. Artistic jewellery pieces can be bought anywhere – whether it’s a hammered metal collar that you’ve found to draw attention to your neckline, or a pair of vivid earrings that will add a pop of colour.
Which brands do the best, affordable, black-tie appropriate jewellery? You can wear fine jewellery or find costume styles to offset your outfit alongside other evening-ready accessories. For those seeking new statement and special pieces on a budget, I’d recommend browsing brands such as Matthew Calvin, & Other Stories and Monica Vinader.
6. Accessorise as you wish
Which accessories should I wear for a black-tie event? Further to my point on jewellery, the rest of your accessories can also provide the finishing touches and add interest to your outfit – an especially useful tip if you’ve played it safe in a classic black dress.
Which shoe and bag combination should I go for? Satin jewelled shoes look like a designer hero buy and will instantly amp up the glamorous eveningwear vibe. The perfect evening bag to carry this season is the pouch (such as this from Pinko) and embellished sandals, which will always be a versatile wardrobe hit. Why not add a little extra sparkle to proceedings?
The best black-tie event outfits for women to buy now:
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*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
Shop the look
*Eliza may earn commission on sales from these product links
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