The Hows and Whys to a Black Tie Affair
BLACK TIE | The Classic
Black Tie means Black Tuxedo, Black Tuxedo Pants, White Shirt and Black Bow Tie
Bow - Tie: Black (definitely not pre-tied) Select a bow size that works with the width of the lapels. A narrow bow tie does not work with a wide peak lapel jacket and a wide bow tie does not work with a narrow lapel tuxedo jacket.
Fabric: Black Wool, Black Wool & Silk, Black Wool & Mohair or Black Barathea
Peak Lapel: This broadens the shoulder and sharpens the look
Shirt: White with some texture, pique. Shirt studs & cufflinks are a must (Reminder: The rule is 1/4" of the shirt cuff to show at jacket sleeve, no less)
Cummberband: Gives a wonderful touch of elegance
Pocket Square: Linen one color or pin dot
BLACK TIE | The Alternative
This is where you can allow your personality to shine.
Midnight Blue Tuxedo: This fresh take on a dark color shows style and a daring, one of a kind personality
Shawl Collar Tuxedo Jacket: Very dashing and Hugh Hefner-esque
Jetted Pockets: No flaps
WHITE TIE & TAILS
Formal Evening Wear, White Tie is only acceptable when the invitation calls for it. Wearing tails to a black tie wedding is not appropriate.
White Tail Coat, White Trousers, White Wing Collar Shirt, White Vest, White Bow Tie
The jacket on tails should never be closed, however the fit of the jacket is measured when the jacket is closed. The bottom of the vest should never peek out below the sides of the jacket, only the front. Onyx studs and cufflinks. Silk Pocket Square.
There you have it - Black Tie 101