On the scale of formality, black tie has been on the upper tip of the list since time immemorial. Yet, though the years, each decade has invariably tried something new or different on the black tie in an effort to ’spice it up.’ And while this has led to an evolution that gives you much more leeway with black tie nowadays, there remain certain sacred rules that you should observe if you want to keep up the formality.
Black Tie Bungles
One of the most common errors that men make with black tie outfits is matching the bowtie exactly to the cummerbund, as if they were cut from the same material. This defeats the secondary purposes of the bowtie and the cummerbund - to provide additional accent to what would otherwise be a plain and boring ensemble.
Whether you are buying your own clothes or renting the whole set, it pays to consider the tie and the cummerbund together. Although the two elements should be of the same color, it will look better if they were a slight shade apart, or if there were a difference in texture. Ruched cummerbunds, for example, are simple items that will make a big difference in your overall appearance.
Black Tie Done Badly
Another typical bungle - in fact, one of the biggest - is to forget black tie altogether and wear a colored bowtie. Even if you see others doing black tie formal or semiformal this way, the truth is that very few people can pull off this look. If you will wear black tie this way, you also run the big risk of offending the host or the organizer because the colored tie suggests much more casual attire.
The safest way to dress for a black tie event is to simply stick to classic cuts and colors. Black tie is the most formal attire because it is also one of the most traditional. It follows that tradition must be upheld to maintain that formality. There are now some more modern bowties and tux jackets that are cut very slim. These styles will come off as edgier, yes, but be more casual and less versatile as well.
Alternatives to Tradition
For many black tie events nowadays, you have other acceptable options aside from the typical tux and pants. If you really want to go for a more modern look, these options are worth a try. Just be sure that you go for either the modern or the traditional all the way, and not mix and match elements from the two styles.
One of the more modern options is to wear a long black necktie under a suit jacket. This has so far proven acceptable at many society events, and has become popular especially with the trendy under-40 crowd. The key to making this look work in the black tie setting is to use a jacket with a peak lapel instead of the usual notch lapel. It imitates the styling of the tux jacket and adds a younger edge.
Black tie is a rather delicate area of fashion because of all the traditions attached to it. Just remember that, when dressing for black tie, you should prioritize safe choices over stylish ones. A formal event isn’t exactly the place where you should try out new fashion statements.
Pohl is an expert on formal attire for men. He has endless articles written about dress codes including black and white tie attire. He is also founder of a necktie retailer offering a wide range of silk ties. You will find a wide selection of bow ties and classic black ties.
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