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Black Tie Optional for Men: What does this ambiguous dress code REALLY mean?

Published on August 30, 2024

Understanding Black Tie Optional Attire for Men

When you receive an invitation that mentions “black tie optional,” it can cause a bit of confusion. This dress code strikes a balance between the formality of black tie and a more relaxed, yet still sophisticated, look. Understanding what “black tie optional for men” means is crucial, especially if you’re attending an event as significant as a wedding. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about black tie optional attire for men.

Black Tie optional is certainly one of the more dreadfully confusing dress codes. However, black tie attire for men is easier than it looks: A tuxedo or a dark suit and you’ll be right on the money.

What Does “Black Tie Optional for Men” Mean?

“Black tie optional for men” is a dress code that gives you the option to wear traditional black-tie attire but doesn’t require it. If you have a tuxedo, this is the perfect opportunity to wear it. Maybe even a dinner jacket in ivory or velvet! However, if you don’t own a tuxedo or prefer not to wear one, a dark suit and tie are also appropriate. The key is to maintain a high level of sophistication and formality, even if you’re not wearing a tuxedo.

Key Elements of Black Tie Optional Attire:

Tuxedo (Optional): If you choose to go with the black tie route, a classic black tuxedo is the way to go. Pair it with a formal white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and black patent leather shoes.
Dark Suit: If you opt out of wearing a tuxedo, choose a well-fitted dark suit in colors like black, charcoal, or navy. Your suit should be paired with a crisp white dress shirt and a dark tie, preferably black or another deep, solid color.
Dress Shoes: Whether you choose a tuxedo or a dark suit, your footwear should be formal. Black leather Oxford shoes are an excellent choice. Want to get real wild? Patent leather slippers can elevate a tux in a very unique way.
Accessories: Keep accessories simple and elegant. A pocket square, cufflinks, and a classic watch can elevate your look.

When in doubt, dress up, not down.

Weddings often call for a higher level of formality, and “black tie optional wedding attire for men” is no exception. When attending a wedding with this dress code, it’s important to err on the side of formality. A tuxedo is always appropriate, but if you decide to wear a suit, ensure it’s dark and impeccably tailored. The goal is to complement the wedding’s elegance without outshining the groom.

Our Favorite Recommendations of Black Tie Optional Attire for Men:

Tips for Navigating Black Tie Optional Wedding Attire:

While typically associated with Black tie attire, this velvet tuxedo could be a great accent to a fall or winter wedding when the dress code requests only optional black tie.

Consider the Venue: The venue can offer clues about how formal your attire should be. A grand ballroom might warrant a tuxedo, while a more relaxed outdoor setting could make a dark suit more appropriate.
Consult the Invitation: Sometimes, the wedding invitation will provide additional guidance on what the couple expects in terms of attire.
Match the Season: Consider the season when choosing your attire. A lighter fabric suit in four-season wool or mohair blend might be more comfortable for a summer wedding, whereas a heavier wool suit or velvet tuxedo is ideal for winter.
Stick to Formal Footwear: Even if you’re wearing a suit instead of a tuxedo, your shoes should still be formal and polished.

Hear a few more quick tips from our Head of Merchandising, Brandon:

Conclusion

Decoding the “black tie optional for men” dress code doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re attending a wedding or another formal event, the key is to choose an outfit that exudes sophistication and respect for the occasion. While the option to wear a suit gives you flexibility, leaning toward the more formal end of the spectrum is usually the best choice, especially when it comes to weddings. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-dressed and confident, no matter the event.

This blog post is designed to help you confidently navigate the nuances of black tie optional attire, with a specific focus on weddings. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Want to learn about more wedding dress codes? Check it out in the hub.