Black tie optional for women: what to wear
A long gown or elegant cocktail dress + heels.
Evening weddings, charity events, corporate galas.
- When
- Evening
- Trousers for women
- Yes
- Jeans
- No
- Sneakers
- No
Three outfit ideas
Gown
A navy chiffon floor-length dress, silver jewellery and heels.
Midi
A black satin midi dress, a velvet clutch and slingback heels.
Jumpsuit
A burgundy crepe wide-leg jumpsuit, gold earrings and heels.
What to wear
- A gown, a midi or an elegant cocktail dress
- Evening trouser suits or an elegant jumpsuit
Shoes
Heels or elegant flats.
Accessories
An evening bag, statement jewellery.
What to avoid
- Casual fabrics and denim
Colours
Dark and rich colours.
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.
Details that make the difference
- Hem the gown for your actual shoes: a long dress should just graze the floor in the heels you'll wear.
- Under silk and satin wear seamless, skin-tone underwear: these fabrics show every line.
- Check that your clutch fits a phone, lipstick and keys before the night.
- Bring a wrap or stole – halls get cool and the trip home at night is cold.
About black tie optional
A tuxedo is welcome but a dark suit and tie is fine; for women, a long gown or elegant cocktail dress. 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.
Black tie for women
A floor-length evening gown + elegant heels + a small clutch.
Cocktail attire for women
A knee-length or midi cocktail dress + heels + a small bag.
Other codes for women
Frequently asked
01Black tie optional: can women wear trousers?
Yes – elegant trousers or a trouser suit are perfectly fine.
02Black tie optional: are jeans OK?
No – jeans are too casual for this code; choose tailored trousers.
03Black tie optional: are sneakers OK?
No – choose leather shoes.
04Do I need a tuxedo for black tie optional?
No – it's optional. A dark, well-fitted suit with a tie is entirely correct.