* For men, black-tie denotes a single Korte Trouwjurk or double-breasted dinner jacket with a black silk bow tie (properly referred to as a dinner jacket, but commonly called "tuxedo" or "tux.").
* For women, an invitation to a black tie event means wearing a long, floor length evening dresses or evening separates. A short cocktail dress may be appropriate for some cocktail receptions, summer events, or daytime functions.
* At international affairs, men and women are often invited to wear traditional formal attire from their country.
* Military personnel wear an equivalent uniform.
NOTE: Gloves are optional. If worn, remove the right hand glove when going through a receiving line
Black Tie Optional
Black tie optional is a term created to allow guests (primarily men) to choose whether to wear formal clothes described above or informal attire described below. It is not an open invitation to dress in whatever a person's wants.
* Choices for men are a tuxedo or a dark suit, white shirt, and evening tie. Nothing else! No light colored suit, or sport coat, or who knows what else.
* For women the choice Lange Cocktailjurken of a floor length gown, evening suit, or short cocktail dress are all acceptable.
How wonderful to have a party to attend! Formalwear guidelines can help you feel comfortable and enjoy the event if you feel like you are dressed appropriately.
There are many things to consider.
If the invitation says Vloer Lengte Avondjurken white tie, then yes, it is proper to wear a long/ball gown. Men will be in tails, and virtually no woman will be in anything other than floor length dress. I have been to a formal ball, and traditionally, you should also wear gloves. That varies according to your local preferences.
If it says black tie, then you can wear a long/floor length dress, a cocktail dress or even a very, very fancy (silk or sparkly) pantsuit (not like you would wear to work or for business).
If the event is a personal event, like a wedding or anniversary party where you are a guest of friends, then you can definitely check with the hostess or other friends who are going. If they are using it as a chance to really dress up, then go for it.
If the event is a fund-raising event that you are supporting or a business event, then you can call the office and find out what the usual attire is for guests. I find for these occasions, that if you have a simple black dress that is very flattering, you can dress it up with sparkly jewelry and dressy shoes, and you'll fit right in.
If you don't have many opportunities to wear a long dress and you think you really must for this occasion, there are bridal/formal wear stores that rent them and consignment shops where you might find one, if you don't want to spend a fortune.
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