Black tie optional for men: what to wear
A tuxedo OR a dark (black, navy, charcoal) suit + tie.
Evening weddings, charity events, corporate galas.
- When
- Evening
- Tie
- Yes
- Jeans
- No
- Sneakers
- No
Three outfit ideas
Tuxedo
A black tuxedo, white shirt, black bow tie – if you own one, it's the best choice.
Dark suit
A black or charcoal suit, white shirt, a dark silk tie and black oxfords.
Navy
A navy suit, a double-cuff white shirt, a burgundy tie and a white pocket square.
What to wear
- A tuxedo – if you have one
- A dark suit with a white shirt and a sober tie
Shoes
Black oxfords.
Accessories
A pocket square, cufflinks.
What to avoid
- A light or pinstriped business suit
- No tie
Colours
Dark and rich colours.
In summer
In summer: lighter dark suits (navy) and lighter fabrics for women.
In winter
In winter: charcoal or black suits, velvet and satin gowns.
Details that make the difference
- Jacket sleeves should show 1–1.5 cm of shirt cuff.
- Trousers without turn-ups and with a minimal break; for formal codes held up by braces, not a belt.
- Socks: black, fine and over the calf – no skin should show when you sit.
- Never fasten the bottom button of a jacket; a one-button dinner jacket is fastened when standing.
About black tie optional
A tuxedo is welcome but a dark suit and tie is fine; for women, a long gown or elegant cocktail dress. The phrase arose in the US when hosts wanted a formal evening without forcing guests to rent a tuxedo. It means the hosts will wear black tie and guests may choose.
Black tie for men
A black or midnight-blue tuxedo + white dress shirt + black bow tie + patent shoes.
Cocktail attire for men
A dark suit + dress shirt + tie (increasingly optional) + leather shoes.
Other codes for men
Frequently asked
01Black tie optional: is a tie required?
Yes – a tie or bow tie is required here.
02Black tie optional: are jeans OK?
No – jeans are too casual for this code; choose tailored trousers.
03Black tie optional: are sneakers OK?
No – choose leather shoes.
04Do I need a tuxedo for black tie optional?
No – it's optional. A dark, well-fitted suit with a tie is entirely correct.