Black tie optional dress code: what it means and what to wear
A tuxedo is welcome but a dark suit and tie is fine; for women, a long gown or elegant cocktail dress.
- When
- Evening
- Trousers for women
- Yes
- Tie
- Yes
- Jeans
- No
- Sneakers
- No
On the invitation: „Black tie optional“, „Black tie preferred“, „Black tie invited“
When it's worn
Evening weddings, charity events, corporate galas.
Colours
Dark and rich colours.
For women
A long gown or elegant cocktail dress + heels.
- A gown, a midi or an elegant cocktail dress
- Evening trouser suits or an elegant jumpsuit
Shoes: Heels or elegant flats.
Example – gown: A navy chiffon floor-length dress, silver jewellery and heels.
Full guide: for women →For men
A tuxedo OR a dark (black, navy, charcoal) suit + tie.
- A tuxedo – if you have one
- A dark suit with a white shirt and a sober tie
Shoes: Black oxfords.
Example – tuxedo: A black tuxedo, white shirt, black bow tie – if you own one, it's the best choice.
Full guide: for men →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.
Where it comes from
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.
Common mistakes
- Casual fabrics and denim
- A light or pinstriped business suit
- No tie
Black tie
Formal evening wear: a tuxedo with a black bow tie for men, a floor-length evening gown for women.
Cocktail attire
Elegant but less formal than black tie: a knee-length or midi cocktail dress, a dark suit with a tie.
All dress codes
Frequently asked
01What does Black tie optional mean?
A tuxedo is welcome but a dark suit and tie is fine; for women, a long gown or elegant cocktail dress.
02Do I need a tuxedo for black tie optional?
No – it's optional. A dark, well-fitted suit with a tie is entirely correct.
03Black tie optional: can women wear trousers?
Yes – elegant trousers or a trouser suit are perfectly fine.
04Black tie optional: is a tie required?
Yes – a tie or bow tie is required here.
05Black tie optional: are jeans OK?
No – jeans are too casual for this code; choose tailored trousers.
06Black tie optional: are sneakers OK?
No – choose leather shoes.