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How to Dress for a Formal Event
The invitation arrives
and you read with great anticipation the elegant writing.
Your presence is requested for a formal event. Perhaps
this will signal a move up your career path or it is
your first formal charity event. As you read the invitation
you see listed among the details "black tie".
Does that mean you need to wear a tuxedo? Will a suit
do just as well?
In settings of this nature it is natural
to be concerned about the appropriate attire as not
fitting in can expose your lack of experience. If you
want to feel comfortable and impress your host, determine
what formal attire is expected based on the terms used
in the invitation as well as the many choices available
to you.
BLACK TIE
Black Tie is a common reference to a
formal affair. If the invitation specifically states
'black tie' you WILL be expected to come in a tuxedo.
You do not have to wear a black tuxedo - a grey tuxedo
would be equally acceptable.
You may also prefer to add some color
or distinction to your outfit by choosing a cummerbund,
vest and tie that is a patterned or solid color. Choose
a sophisticated cuff link and finish the look with black
patent leather shoes.
The variety of styles available today
allows you to customize your look with the cut of the
coat, the color of your accessories and they style of
neck wear. Depending on the event and your hosts you
may determine if too much self-expression would detract
from the evening. If you are unsure it is wise to stick
with traditional black and white.
WHITE TIE
White Tie is the most formal dress request.
It requires a strict attention to tradition and does
not permit the guest to deviate from an accepted standard.
A White Tie event requires the men to
be wearing a black, full dress tailcoat, wing collar
shirt, white pique vest and tie. You may also wish to
add such elegant touches as a top hat, cane and white
gloves.
TRADITIONAL (or FORMAL) MORNING ATTIRE
Another take on formal wear for day
time events is the traditional morning attire. The most
formal suit is composed of a grey cutaway coat, striped
trousers and grey vest with a wing collar shirt and
ascot. Less formal dress would substitute a Stroller
coat, laydown collar shirt and four-in-hand tie.
For non-traditional formal wear at a
day time event you can wear a black or grey tuxedo or
even a white tuxedo for warm weather events.
SEMI-FORMAL
Semi-formal allows the guest to wear
either a black or grey tuxedo or a suit. Seasonal appropriate
colors can be used for day time affairs.
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