Getty Images Can you wear white tie to a black tie event? They should then be complemented by black evening socks (plain black socks are forgivable). A surefire way to stay within the rules is to wear a black patent leather shoe with black laces (if possible black ribbon). With alien phrases such as “court shoe” and “opera shoe” being thrown around in white tie circles it is easy to become confused by shoe variations. This is a subtle point, but it is worth trying to adhere to since it helps keep the balance of the suit.
You will need a low-cut, white evening waistcoat (so the shirt is visible) and the bottom of the waistcoat shouldn’t stick out under the jacket. Cufflinks are of course a necessity and instead of buttons, studs should be worn in mother-of-pearl or something light. The shirt must be a stiff white evening shirt (pleated or plain) with single folded cuffs and a wing collar.
They must not be too baggy, since this detracts from the overall elegance the suit is attempting to conjure. The trousers must be high waisted with two lines of braid down the outside. It must be worn unbuttoned and must always have peaked lapels. The jacket must be an evening tailcoat, which differs to a morning tailcoat in its shape, creating a more harsh line that cuts back towards the body.
#Red button shirt white tie code#
To have a white tie dress code the event must be very important or indicate that the calibre of guests are titled, royal or have high social standing. The black tie and white tie dress codes are set apart by levels of formality. Black tie vs white tie: what's the difference?
Unfortunately, your under-nines player of the tournament medal doesn’t cut it. It is usually at royal ceremonies or very formal event in the City, where one’s decorations or medals of honour should be worn. Not even the Royal Box at Ascot requires traditional white tie.Īctually, we may be guilty of a little white lie, because there is one further level of formality named “white tie decorations”. But in these more liberal, modern times it is a rarity and only seen at royal, state or livery ceremonies, balls or banquets. For example, the opening night of an opera. In a bygone era it was the standard dress of a formal event. White tie is the undisputed champion of formality. If you thought black tie was formal, you are in for a shock.