Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 3: Understand what an official welcome is
• Method 2 of 3: Men's Clothing
• Method 3 of 3: Women's Clothing
• Tips

If you are invited to a formal reception (black tie, English "black tie"), you need to choose the appropriate outfit. Formal receptions are usually very formal, and the wrong outfit can offend the owners and seem out of place. You may not even be allowed to the event if you are not dressed as expected. Knowing what is expected of you, you can choose the right outfit.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Understand what an official welcome is

1. 1 Read the invitation carefully. There is a difference between the dress code "black tie optional", "preferably black tie" and "black tie". Knowing what time of day and what time of year the event is taking place, as well as the type of event, you will be able to choose the right clothes.
   • Evening receptions are more formal than afternoon receptions.
   • Winter activities are more formal (and they prefer dark colors) than summer ones.
2. 2 Find out what "preferably black tie" means. If the invitation says so, it means that you should wear the most elegant that you have in the closet. If you don't have a floor-length dress or tuxedo, a pretty cocktail dress or suit will do.
   • If you decide not to dress in a black tie dress code in this case, you need to be prepared for the fact that everyone around you will be dressed more strictly than you.
3. 3 Find out what "optional black tie" means. Such a mark means that the event will be formal, but the dress code is not limited to rigid frames. Most likely, half of the people will follow the black tie dress code and half will be less formal.
   • If you are having trouble deciding what to wear, but you know the people who will be at the event, ask what they plan to wear. This will give you an idea of ​​what is expected of you, especially if you are interacting with people who are happy with the reception.
4. 4 Learn what black tie means. This mark indicates that the event is formal, but very strict adherence to the dress code is not required. Men can wear colored shirts instead of white ones, or wear a bright tie. Women can also opt for brighter dresses, a tiara, or tall gloves.
5. 5 Find out what "strict black tie" means. Such a mark means that you will be admitted to the event only if you are dressed strictly according to the dress code. Below we will tell you what clothes are suitable in this case.

Method 2 of 3: Men's Clothing

1. 1 Find the right tuxedo. Tuxedos are usually made of black wool, and such a suit consists of a jacket and trousers.
   • The jacket can be single or double-breasted, but the classic is the single-breasted one-button jacket.
   • Pockets should not have flaps.
   • Pants should be the same color as the jacket and should not differ in fabric. There should be no cuffs on the trousers, but there should be an arrow.
   • You may be allowed to wear a navy blue tuxedo instead of black. White tuxedos are also acceptable, but are more commonly worn for daytime events.
2. 2 Pick up the things that will be emphasized. You will need a white shirt and sash.
   • A sash and tuxedo are a classic pairing, but a vest can also be worn for a less formal event.
3. 3 Rent a tuxedo. If you don't have a tuxedo, rent one from a bridal and evening wear store. Many stores have low prices for this. The store staff will also be able to tell you how formal the event will be with this dress code.
4. 4 Tie a black bow tie. Bow ties are expected on formal occasions. If the invitation does not say "strict black tie", you can tie a bow tie in a different color, but you should choose only plain ties without patterns (for example, red). If you are invited with a girl, you can choose a bow tie in the color of your companion's dress.
5. 5 Put on shiny black dress shoes on your feet. They must be well polished. If you do not have these shoes, you can also rent them.
6. 6 Remember the weather. Fortunately, strict formal events are usually held indoors in the evening. You will be comfortable in the outfit and without outerwear.
   • If you need outerwear, a strict coat (long fitted) will do. A classic addition to it will be a white scarf.
   • If it's warm outside, choose tuxedos made from lighter fabrics. Keep a handkerchief with you so you can discreetly wipe sweat from your skin.

Method 3 of 3: Women's Clothing

1. 1 Choose a dress to the floor. These dresses look more elegant than short ones. The neckline should be appropriate, and there are no restrictions on the length of the sleeves (if the dress has sleeves). Many dresses have no sleeves.
   • If you do not have such a dress, a smart dark dress below the knee will do.
   • Older women should only wear long dresses, younger ones are allowed shorter ones.
   • Very formal events require a long dress with a full skirt.
2. 2 Choose dresses in dark, sophisticated colors. Preference should be given to black, while the fabric should be textured, so that the dress will look interesting.
   • Deep colors like blue, dark red, maroon and brown look good too.
   • White and red dresses can be elegant and austere, but they will immediately set you apart from the general background. Such dresses should not be worn at a wedding, as all attention should be directed to the bride and not to the guests.
3. 3 Pick up a beautiful evening bag or clutch. An ordinary everyday bag will not work - you need a small satin clutch or a bag (with beads).
4. 4 Put on your best jewelry. The more gloss the better. It's your time to show off!
   • If possible, wear only precious jewelry (diamonds, pearls, gold).
   • If you are wearing jewelry, it should be of very high quality.
   • It is best to wear a sparkly bracelet and earrings, or a very simple necklace.
5. 5 Think about the weather. It is inconvenient to wear evening clothes in winter, because it is freezing outside, and women need to wear sleeveless dresses. Whatever you put on over the dress, these clothes should also be strict. Remember, you can always rent or buy used items.
   • In the case of the "black tie" dress code, preference is given to fur coats or fur coats (made of natural or artificial fur).
   • You can also wear a formal coat.
   • In warm climates, a shawl or coat made of quality materials (for example, cashmere) is suitable.
   • Long gloves serve as an accessory rather than protect from the cold. However, they can help keep you warm in cold weather.
6. 6 Hide your underwear. Items of underwear should not stick out from under clothing.
   • Pay attention to the straps of the bra. It is customary to wear strict dresses without a bra.
   • Make sure the panties are not sticking through the clothes. If you are wearing a very tight or tight dress, check to see if your underwear is visible. You may need to wear a thong or go without underwear.
   • Slimming underwear can be worn. Such underwear will smooth out irregularities and give the body a beautiful shape. Such underwear is usually not visible under clothing.
7. 7 Finish the look with dressy shoes. Evening shoes are usually very sleek and have a noticeable heel. Large and massive shoes are not suitable for an evening dress.
   • Satin and beaded shoes will look really good. Ideally, the texture of the shoes should overlap with the texture of the bag or clutch.
8. 8 Style your hair and do your makeup. Pay special attention to this.
   • Usually, at official receptions, it is customary to tuck the hair up. Sign up for a salon to have your hair done professionally.
   • If there will be dancing at the event, it is better to choose a less formal hairstyle with flowing curls.
   • Get a manicure and pedicure on the day of the event. Make an appointment in advance to get there on that particular day.
   • Makeup should be neat and moderate. If you do not know how to do makeup, it is better to sign up for a beauty salon.

Tips

• If you are invited to a traditional wedding and you are worried about clothes, talk to your bridesmaids and ask them to help you make your choice. You can even talk to the bride, but first it is better to contact your girlfriends.
• If your budget is tight, rent, loan, or buy used items.