Tie_a_Tie : Dress code and Ties

Guide to White Tie Dress Code

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 <img alt="Mens White Tie Tailcoat" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/mens-white-tie-tailcoat.jpg" />
 Are you lucky enough to be invited to an event requiring a white tie
 dress? Consider yourself lucky! White tie is the most formal of all 
dress codes and typically associated with presidential dinners, royal 
affairs, as well as state dinners and formal balls. It is a dress code 
that leaves little room for personal interpretation. Thus, it is 
imperative you follow a strict dress guideline. Below is all the 
information you need to know that will insure your attire is up to par.

<h2>
White Tie in Brief</h2>
In brief, white tie consists of a black tailcoat jacket, full white 
waistcoat, wing-tipped collared dress shirt, self-tied white bow tie, 
and patent leather dress shoes. Below I am discussing each clothing item
 in more detail, give tips on how to best wear it, and also discuss 
possible (if any) style variations you can choose from.

<h2>
The Tailcoat Jacket</h2>
White tie requires men to be dressed in a tailcoat jacket that is 
more specifically called evening dress coat. Typically the jacket is 
solid black in color although midnight blue has been considered an 
acceptable alternative since the 1920s. The jacket appears to have a 
double breasted cut but it is actually tailored in a way that it cannot 
be buttoned. Thus, excellent fit is key - making a trip to a tailor (or,
 should your budget allow, a bespoke tailored jacket) imperative when 
shopping or a tailcoat.

A well tailored tailcoat fits well on the shoulders, snugly hugs 
your torso, has a sleeve length that shows about 1/4 inch on your dress 
shirt's sleeves, rises up on your neck so that enough of the dress 
shirt's collar is showing but at the same time does not reveal the band 
of the bow tie, has a front that is just long enough to cover the 
waistcoat but does not reach below the waist, and finally has two tails 
that reach down to the knees.

Traditionally the classic tailcoat is made from finest worsted wool.
 When shopping for a waistcoat, have a look at the label which should 
read Super100 wool or higher. The number refers to the length of the 
individual wool fiber. The longer the fiber, the finer, and more 
expensive the fabric will be. The classic tailcoat has notched lapels 
and 6 buttons - both faced in finest satin.

<h2>
White Tie Trousers</h2>
<img alt="Formal Mens Trousers" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/formal-mens-trousers.jpg" />
 Formal trousers must be made from the same fabric as the tailcoat. 
Because the front of the tailcoat has a higher rise it is important the 
trousers are cut with a high waistline. Formal trousers are never worn 
with belts but instead are held in place thanks to a perfectly tailored 
fit, adjustable concealed waistband, and back buttons used to attach 
suspenders.

Formal trousers can be straight cut or have pleated fronts - which 
style you choose is a question of personal preference although men with a
 larger waistline are advised to choose pleats that are more flattering 
to the larger body type. Finally white tie trousers have a silk trim 
that matches the lapel and button facings of the jacket. The trim 
consists of either one or two stripes that run along the outside to the 
trousers' seam. Also, formal white tie trousers don't have cuffs.

<h2>
White Tie Waistcoats</h2>
<img alt="White Tie Waistcoat" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/white-tie-waistcoat.jpg" />
 While there is little room for interpretation on a white tie 
ensemble, the waistcoat does give you some choices to add your own 
personal touch. The most important thing is proper fit. The waistcoat 
should be long enough to cover the trousers' waistline, but at the same 
time be short enough so that it does not reach below the tailcoat. In 
addition, the white tie waistcoat should have a deep V opening to reveal
 much of the formal dress shirt.

White tie waistcoats are typically white in color and made from 
cotton pique but off-white shades such as ivory and cream are also 
acceptable. You can choose between single and double breasted cuts. The 
single breasted waistcoat is secured with two buttons while the double 
breasted waistcoat uses four. Buttons are either faced in the same 
fabric as the waistcoat or made from mother of pearl. Most white tie 
waistcoats have an open back.

<h2>
Formal White Tie Dress Shirts</h2>
<img alt="White Tie Dress Shirt" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/white-tie-dress-shirt.jpg" />
 The right formal dress shirt is just as important as the tailcoat. 
The formal white tie shirt is always white in color and most commonly 
made from fine broadcloth fabric. Unlike <a href="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/black-tie-guide.html">black tie</a>
 dress shirts, the white tie shirt is minimal in decoration but it does 
have a bib-like (also known as bosom) front that has a stiffened cotton 
pique or fine linen facing.

The collar of the white tie shirt is a detachable wing-tip that has a
 rise ranging from 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 inches. (For more information on shirt
 collars I also suggest you read my <a href="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/blog/dressshirt-collar-guide/">dress shirt collar guide</a>.)
 High quality shirts have a loop sown to the back of the collar that is 
meant to keep the bow tie loop in place. Most common is the formal 
barrel cuff that is secured with mother of pearl cufflinks matching the 
button studs at the front of the dress shirt.

<h2>
The Right Bow Tie</h2>
<img alt="Self Tied White Bow Tie" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/self-tied-white-bow-tie.jpg" />
 The bow tie must be white in color and be made from cotton pique 
matching the fabric of the waistcoat. Only the self-tied bow tie is 
acceptable as pre-tied bow ties are considered tacky and insulting to 
the formal nature of white tie. Most common are batwing and butterfly 
bow ties. Keep in mind that the bow tie is worn outside of the wings of 
the collars. Need help in tying a bow tie? Then have a look at my 
tutorial about <a href="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/bowtie.html">How to Tie a Bow Tie</a>

<h2>
Proper Dress Shoes</h2>
<img alt="Patent Leather Pump" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/patent-leather-pump.jpg" />
 Only the finest and most elegant footwear is suited for formal white
 tie dress. Thus, pumps made from fine and shiny patent leather are 
preferred. Most formal pumps are decorated with a silk grosgrain bow. 
Also acceptable are patent leather oxford lace-ups.

<h2 style="clear: both;">
Common White Tie Accessories</h2>
When dressing for a white tie invitation several accessory choices 
will be available to you. Below I am discussing all the popular white 
tie accessories.

<h3>
Cufflinks & Studs</h3>
Cufflinks and studs are not optional but a must have accessory. 
Typically the cufflinks, shirt's studs, and waistcoat buttons all match.
 Most popular are studs and cufflinks faced with genuine mother of 
pearl. Sterling silver, platinum, and white gold is the preferred metal.
 Yellow gold is almost never present on a white tie ensemble.

<h3>
Suspenders</h3>
Another required accessory are suspenders that are worn under the waistcoat. Traditionally suspenders are made from white silk.

<h3>
Top Hat</h3>
<img alt="Mens Silk Top Hat" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/mens-silk-top-hat.jpg" />
 The top hat is either made from black silk or polished black beaver 
fur. You will be able to choose from a fixed as well as collapsible top 
hat. Most top hats are decorated with a silk grosgrain band running 
along the bottom of the brim.

<h3 style="clear: both;">
Boutonniere</h3>
The boutonniere is an optional accessory. Typically it is worn in 
place of a pocket square. Both, pocket square and boutonniere, are 
almost never worn on one outfit. The proper boutonniere must be white in
 color. Carnations and gardenias are the two acceptable choices.

<h3>
Pocket Square</h3>
The white linen pocket square is a popular formal accessory but it 
since most tailcoat jacket's do not have a breast pocket might not be an
 option after all.

<h3>
Dress Watch</h3>
If you choose to wear a timepiece (some consider it a Faux Pas to be
 checking the time during formal occasions), then the only acceptable 
choice would be a silver, platinum, or white-gold pocket watch that is 
attached to your waistcoat.

<h3>
Evening Gloves</h3>
White evening gloves have become rare at modern white tie functions.
 Should you choose to wear gloves with your white tie ensemble then make
 sure they are white in color and made from fine kidskin leather.

<h3>
Evening Scarf</h3>
The correct evening scarf is the same as the one worn at black tie 
functions. It is white or ivory in color and either made from silk or 
fine cashmere. The formal opera scarf has tassels on each end. It is 
worn loosely hanging down over each shoulder and is intended to be 
offered to your date during the opera's intermission.

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Dress code and Ties Guide to White Tie Dress Code

Are you lucky enough to be invited to an event requiring a white tie dress? Consider yourself lucky! White tie is the most formal of ...

Guide to Black Tie

01:23 Unknown 0

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 <h1>
</h1>
<img alt="Black Tie Attire" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/black-tie-attire.jpg" />Black tie refers to a formal evening dress code that typically requires men to be dressed in
 tuxedo and women in evening gown. Below is a basic guide on men's black tie attire. It is
 my goal to make this black tie guide as concise and simple as possible.

<h2>
The 30 Second Black Tie Guide</h2>
The classic black tie dress code consists of a black tuxedo, white dress shirt, black bow tie,
 and black dress shoes. These items make up the gold standard of a black tie ensemble. If
 you are interested to learn more then I discuss each clothing item in much more detail
 below. I hope you find my black tie guide helpful!

<h2 style="clear: both;">
Tuxedos</h2>
<h3>
The Gold Standard</h3>
If you want to adhere to the classic black tie dress code then choose the traditional tuxedo pictured above. As
 you can see from the picture, the classic black tie tux is solid black in color, is single breasted, has one single
 button, has a peaked satin-faced lapel, does not have vents at the back, and is made from grosgrain fabric. If
 you don't want to go with a standard look but still want to stick to the black tie dress code then read on. In the
 next few paragraphs I will cover acceptable tuxedo color, cut, and fabric options.

<h3>
Acceptable Tuxedo Colors</h3>
As I had mentioned, black is the classic tuxedo color for black tie functions but a dark midnight blue is an
 acceptable, and equally suited alternative. Both, black and midnight blue, are acceptable black tie tux colors
 for evening wear. White dinner jackets worn with black pants are common for day time black tie functions.
 This type of dress code is commonly referred to "warm weather black tie".

<h3>
Tuxedo Cuts & Styles</h3>
Besides color there are several designs and cuts available when choosing a tuxedo. First, let's talk about the
 cut. Most common is the single breasted tuxedo. The other choice available is a double breasted jacket. The
 single breasted style is traditional and more classic. The double breasted cut was introduced in the 1930s.
 While the single breasted tux is typically worn unbuttoned, the double breasted cut should be worn buttoned
 - making a waist covering unnecessary (see below for waistcoat and cummerbund options). If you want to
 keep it traditional then choose the single breasted style, if you want something slightly out of the ordinary
 then the double breasted jacket would be a suited alternative. Keep in mind that the double breasted cut can
 be slightly less comfortable when sitting down.

Next, let's talk about lapel styles. Most classic is the peaked lapel. Slightly less common but equally formal is
 the shawl lapel. Even though notch lapels are more common nowadays they are considered to be slightly less
 formal. Typically the lapel has a shiny silk facing that matches the facing on the jacket's buttons.

<h3>
Tuxedo Fabrics</h3>
The classic tuxedo is made from a fabric that has a fine diagonal ribbed texture that is also known as grosgrain.
 Depending on the quality and price point, tuxedo fabrics range from silk (on the higher end) to a man made
 polyester (lowest cost). Most common is fine worsted wool. I suggest you choose a natural fiber such as wool.
 It is more carefree than silk and much more breathable and comfortable than a synthetic fiber. Choose a wool
 that is labeled "super 100" or higher. The higher the number, the finer, shinier, and more exclusive the fabric.

<h3>
Rent vs. Buy</h3>
black tie functions are a once in a lifetime event for you then I suggest you go with a rental. Renting a
 complete black tie outfit will range from $60 to $120. Make sure to that you give yourself enough time for
 fitting and tailoring. Call a rental place ahead of time to see what is available. This can be especially tricky
 during prom or wedding season.

Buying a tux is a good choice if your body doesn't change too much anymore, and if you plan on attending
 more than five black tie functions in your lifetime. The classic black tie outfit will not change and just five black
 tie events can offset the cost of buying your own ensemble. The cost is one of the factors to consider when
 choosing buying vs. renting. Other things to consider are design choices, custom tailoring, and quality. Even
 lower cost tuxedos will be of better quality than a rental. In addition, buying your own tux will allow you to
 tailor your garment for the perfect fit.

<h2>
Black Tie Trousers</h2>
<img alt="Mens Tuxedo Pants" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/mens-tuxedo-pants.jpg" /><h3>
Classic Tuxedo Pants</h3>
Classic trousers are black in color and made from the same fabric as the jacket. The outer
 seems are hidden and covered by a silk band that matches the jacket's lapels. Both
 pleated as well as straight cut trousers are acceptable. Which style you choose is a
 matter of personal preference and comfort. Tuxedo pants do not have belt loops as they
 are never worn with a belt. Instead, they are either tightened using adjustable side tabs
 or suspenders. The waistband of the pants is covered by either waistcoat or
 cummerbund.

<h2 style="clear: both;">
Black Tie Dress Shirts</h2>
<img alt="Formal White Dress Shirt" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/formal-white-dress-shirt.jpg" /><h3>
The Classic Black Tie Shirt</h3>
The picture on the left shows a classic shirt that is perfect for your black tie outfit. The
 classic shirt is bright white in color, has a turn-down spread collar, has a pleated front,
 and is French cuffed. Below is some more information on different black tie dress shirt
 options.

<h3>
Collar Styles</h3>
The turn-down collar is the most classic style. Best are wide-spread collars that will hide
 behind the jacket's lapels creating a more simplistic and elegant look. Also popular, and
 actually more formal, is the wing-tip collar dress shirt. The wing-tip collared shirt was
 typically reserved for the most formal of all dress codes called "White Tie". This formal dress shirt is now quite
 common for black tie ensembles. Finally there is the so-called mandarin collar - a shirt that is almost
 collarless and decorated with black stud rather than bow tie. Please keep in mind that the mandarin collared
 shirt must only be worn with so called oriental jacket rather than tuxedo.

<h3>
Pleats or no Pleats</h3>
The classic black tie dress shirt has a pleated front that is spaced 1/2 to 3/4 inches apart. If you want to opt for a
 more simplistic style that does not compromise formality then you may also choose a plain front shirt whose
 buttons are replaced with black button studs. Regardless of the style you choose, black tie dress shirts never
 have a breast pocket.

<h2>
Waistcoat or Cummerbund?</h2>
<h3>
Classic Black Tie Waist Covering</h3>
Both, waistcoat as well as cummerbund, are acceptable waist coverings for black tie attire. Even though both
 are available in a wide range of colors, the classic choice is black - matching the jacket. The black tie aficionado
 will argue that the waistcoat is better suited for jackets with a peaked lapel while the simple lines of the
 cummerbund best harmonizes with the clean lines of the shawl collar jacket.

<h3>
The Waistcoat in Detail</h3>
<img alt="Formal Black Tie Waistcoat" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/formal-black-tie-waistcoat.jpg" />faced in shiny sateen silk to match the lapels of the jacket. Most formal are
 waistcoats with a low cut, showing as much of the shirt's decorative pleats
 without hiding the waistcoat. Single as well as double breasted waistcoats are
 acceptable, and both styles come in full dress as well as open back style (the latter
 being more comfortable in warm weather). Traditionally the waistcoat has 3-
 buttons (4-buttons for double breasted) that are faced in sateen silk matching the
 lapels. Two so-called "welt pockets" are located at the lower front of the
 waistcoat and were intended to hold a pocket watch and/or ticket stubs.

<h3 style="clear: both;">
The Cummerbund in Detail</h3>
<img alt="Black Cummerbund" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/black-cummerbund.jpg" />The cummerbund is a decorative sash that originated in India during British
 colonialism. It was introduced as an acceptable black tie accessory during the
 1930s. Traditionally the cummerbund is black in color has upward facing pleats
 and is made from shiny sateen silk or grosgrain. It is the consensus of black tie
 experts that the cummerbund is best suited for shawl collar jackets.

<h2 style="clear: both;">
Proper Black Tie Neckwear</h2>
<img alt="Black Bow Tie" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/black-bow-tie.jpg" /><h3>
The Classic Black Bow Tie</h3>
The classic neckwear for a black tie function is a solid black bow tie that is self-tied. The
 fabric of the bow tie has to match the facing of the lapels. Sateen lapels are matched
 with sateen silk bow ties and grosgrain faced lapels are paired with finely ribbed or
 pique fabric bow ties.

<h3>
Other Bow Tie Styles</h3>
The classic bow tie is a so-called butterfly bow tie. It has a spread of 2-2.5". Also acceptable are narrow
 bow ties, called batwing, whose spread is 1-1.5 inches. Finally there are bow ties with pointed tips - a great
 alternative for those seeking a slightly different and more unique look.

When shopping for a black tie bow tie you can choose between a pre-tied and a self-tied bowtie. Pre-tied
 bows are acceptable for proms but are considered a black tie Faux Pas once you graduated high school. When
 buying a self-tied bow tie you can choose between a fixed length and an adjustable length bow. I recommend
 the fixed length bows that are typically available in Small (13.5 - 15 inch neck), Medium (15.5 - 17 inch neck),
 and Large Size (17.5 - 19.5 inch neck). The fixed length bow offers two advantages: First, the size of the bow
 will automatically be proportionate to your neck and face. Second, the lack of the adjustment clasp gives the
 bow tie much cleaner and formal look. If you need to learn to tie a bow then I suggest you view my guide on
 <a href="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/bowtie.html">How to Tie a Bow Tie</a>

<h2>
Shoes for Black Tie Attire</h2>
<img alt="Oxford Patent Leather Dress Shoes" class="alignleft" src="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/images/oxford-patent-leather-dress-shoes.jpg" /><h3>
Classic Black Tie Footwear</h3>
Black tie footwear is slim, minimal in decorations, and lightweight. Two styles are
 common for black tie attire: The formal pump, as well as formal lace-up (oxford). The
 pump is always made from high gloss patent leather while the formal lace-up (pictured)
 is also acceptable in polished calfskin.

<h2 style="clear: both;">
Optional Black Tie Accessories</h2>
<h3>
Opera Scarf</h3>
The opera scarf is a common evening accessory that is white in color, has 3-5 inch long tassels, and is either
 made from finest silk or cashmere. The opera scarf is never tied but instead worn loosely over the shoulders.
 Traditionally men wore the opera scarf so that they could offer it to their date to stay warm during the opera's
 intermission.

<h3>
Cufflinks & Studs</h3>
Cufflinks and studs are a must have accessory for black tie attire. The cufflinks have to match the decorative
 shirt button studs. Cufflinks and studs are usually made from gold, silver, platinum, onyx, or mother of pearl.
 The metal color has to match your wrist or pocket watch.

<h3>
Pocket Squares</h3>
Another optional black tie accessory is a white pocket square. The type of pocket square fold you choose is
 personal preference. Formal pocket squares are either made from fine linen, cotton pique, or silk. Best are
 pocket squares with hand-rolled edges. I am currently compiling a guide with different ways to fold a pocket
 square. I will let you know as soon as it is finished.

<h3>
Dress Watch</h3>
Some black tie experts will argue that a wrist watch does not belong to a black tie outfit. They argue
 that "clock watching" does not pair with the celebratory nature of a black tie event. If you do choose a wrist
 watch, then keep the design simple, sleek, and unadorned. A model with classic black leather band and a thin
 body is best suited. Another great option is a pocket watch. When choosing a watch make sure that the metal
 matches the color of your cufflinks and button studs.

</div>

Dress code and Ties Guide to Black Tie

Black tie refers to a formal evening dress code that typically requires men to be dressed in tuxedo and women in evening gown. Below is...

Job Interview Dress

01:22 Unknown 0

<div class="rtext">
Often when you need to learn how to tie a tie it is 
because you have to show up for a job interview in the near future. To 
help you along and get the most out of your tie knot I put together this
 page.</div>

 
 <div class="rtext">
At a formal job interview, one of the things you want 
to project is confidence. This is best accomplished if you use the 
thick, wide and triangular <a href="http://www.tie-a-tie.net/windsor.html" title="Windsor Knot">Windsor Knot</a> to tie your tie.</div>

<ins id="aswift_0_expand" style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; display: inline-table; height: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; visibility: visible; width: 468px;"><ins id="aswift_0_anchor" style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; display: block; height: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; visibility: visible; width: 468px;"></ins></ins>
 

 
 <div class="rtext">
However, while the tie knot is a very important aspect
 of your job interview attire, your overall appearance counts as well. 
Hence, it is important to understand what makes up your entire 
conservative job interview dress that is still the standard in most 
corporations.</div>

<div class="rtext">
The following list should give you a good idea of how to dress for a job interview:</div>

 
 <ul>
<li>Suit: A conservative, two-piece dark grey or a 
dark blue business suit would be the ideal suit to wear on the day of 
your job interview.</li>
<li>Shirt: A white, long-sleeved dress shirt that is neatly pressed and has a good fit is recommendable.</li>
<li>Tie: Go for a plain colored, non-distracting, conservative dark blue or dark red necktie made of 100% pure silk.</li>
<li>Tie accessories: A classic silver tie bar ensures 
that your tie is held in place during the interview. Without one, you 
often end up adjusting your tie several times during the interview, 
which will make you look nervous.</li>
<li>Shoes: Clean and polished conservative dress shoes, black lace-ups if possible, would be your best choice.</li>
<li>Socks: Dark socks, black if possible, would be ideally suited.</li>
<li>Belt: The belt should match the color of your shoes, so go with a black one if possible</li>
<li>Hair: Make sure that you get a well-groomed hairstyle before the interview. Be aware that short always fares best in interviews.</li>
<li>Beard: A beard needs to be shaved off.</li>
<li>Mustache: Mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, then at least make sure it is neat and trimmed.</li>
<li>Fingernails: Ensure that they are clean and trimmed.</li>
<li>Rings: Wedding or college rings are generally acceptable but other rings are not.</li>
<li>Earrings & piercings: Both earrings and visible body piercings should be taken out on the day of the interview.</li>
<li>Body odor & fresh breath: Make sure that you do not smell badly and chew some gum before the interview, yet never during the interview.</li>
<li>Perfume & cologne: Keep perfume and cologne to a minimum.</li>
<li>Briefcase: Take along a briefcase with a notepad and a pen for any notes you may have to take during or after the interview.</li>
</ul>

 
 <div class="rtext">
Realizing that this list is quite exhaustive, I still 
think that you should try to make effort to ensure your job interview 
attire resembles the one above. Remember, it is almost always better to 
be higher than the standard than lower. In the end, you are interviewing
 for your future so every additional effort that sets you apart from 
your competitors will benefit you eventually.</div>

 
 <div class="rtext">
Consider putting all your clothes on the day before 
the interview to get an idea of the "big picture", especially if you are
 not used to wearing formal clothes. In that case, it is better to feel a
 bit awkward the day before the interview than on the day itself.</div>

Dress code and Ties Job Interview Dress

Often when you need to learn how to tie a tie it is because you have to show up for a job interview in the near future. To help...