Black tie is a semi-formal dress code for evening events and social functions derived from British and American costume conventions of the 19th century. Traditionally worn only for events after 7 pm.
For men, the elements of black tie are:
- A white dress shirt
- A black bow tie
- An evening waistcoat or cummerbund
- A dinner jacket (called a tuxedo in the United States), of black or midnight blue wool, in which the jacket lapels and trouser braid are of silk or other contrasting material
- Black Oxford dress shoes or patent leather pumps.
For ladies, the elements of black tie are:
- Evening shoes
- A ballgown, sleeveless evening gown with a wrap or stole or cocktail dress. Cocktail dresses may be long or moderately short and needn’t be black.
