Black-Tie Weddings: Outdoor Edition

A black-tie wedding is a formal affair, usually held in the evening, where guests are expected to wear floor-length gowns and suits or tuxedos. This is the most formal dress code after white-tie attire. While the dress code does not dictate a specific colour, it is recommended that guests avoid wearing white, or anything that could be seen as competing with the bride's outfit.

So, can you do a black-tie wedding outside? While the dress code itself does not specify an indoor venue, black-tie events are usually held at night. If you are set on an outdoor wedding, you may need to consider the practicality of formalwear for your guests. For example, stiletto heels may sink into soft ground, and a tuxedo may be uncomfortably warm for an outdoor wedding in hot weather.

Tuxedos and full-length gowns

When it comes to black-tie weddings, the dress code is fairly straightforward. Black-tie weddings are formal events, and the attire is meant to match this formality. Tuxedos and full-length gowns are the traditional attire for black-tie weddings.

For men, a classic tuxedo consists of a satin-lapel dinner jacket, pants with a satin stripe on the leg, a formal white button-down shirt (often with French cuffs), and patent leather or velvet oxfords or loafers. Suspenders are optional but can add a cute fashion statement. While a tuxedo is the preferred option, a dark suit or a tuxedo with a long tie in a dark colour can also work. The colour doesn't have to be black; navy, maroon, green, and patterned jackets are also options.

For women, a black-tie wedding calls for a floor-length gown in a formal fabric like silk charmeuse, chiffon, or Mikado, embellished with Alençon lace, embroidery, or crystals. The silhouette can vary from a sheath to a ball gown. Stiletto heels, high-end jewellery, and a formal purse are the appropriate accessories. While black is a safe choice, other colours are also acceptable as long as they are not white, off-white, or similar hues. Jewel tones are excellent options, especially for fall weddings, while pastel hues are perfect for summer weddings.

While black-tie weddings call for formal attire, there is room for creativity and personal style. Ultimately, the goal is to look elegant and feel great about yourself while respecting the formality of the occasion and the couple's special day.

Dress codes

Black-tie weddings are formal occasions, usually held in the evening, and call for formal attire. This means tuxedos for men and floor-length gowns for women. However, black-tie dress codes can be adapted to suit the season, venue, and time of day. Here is a breakdown of the dress code for men and women.

For Men:

A black-tie wedding is a great opportunity to dress up in a tuxedo. This includes the full look: a proper dinner jacket, tuxedo trousers, appropriate shoes, and accessories. The traditional colour is black, but other dark colours such as navy, grey, and burgundy are also acceptable. A white dress shirt is standard, with either a bow tie or necktie. Cufflinks and shirt studs are also part of the formal look. As for shoes, loafers, derbies, and monk straps are good choices, and black is the standard colour.

For Women:

Floor-length gowns are the standard for black-tie weddings, and the length is more important than the colour or style. Any colour but white or a similar hue is acceptable, and the silhouette can vary. However, the dress should be formal and elegant, and not too revealing. For outdoor weddings, consider the weather and opt for chiffon or pure silk. Embellishments like beading, sequins, and sparkly accents are also a fun way to elevate your look. If a long dress isn't your style, a fancy cocktail dress or a well-tailored, dark-coloured suit are also good options.

For Non-Binary People:

A black-tie wedding is a chance to get creative with formalwear. Floor-length gowns, suits, dinner jackets, or jumpsuits in luxe materials are all great choices. Have fun with accessories and wear whatever makes you feel fancy but also comfortable.

Black-Tie Optional:

If the invitation says "black-tie optional", men can wear a dark formal suit with a tie, and women can opt for a long evening gown, a fancier suit, or a formal cocktail dress.

Black-Tie Don'ts:

For men, a black-tie event requires a tuxedo or formal dinner jacket. A suit, even a black one, is too informal. Blazers, unaccompanied dress shirts, and regular long ties are also not suitable. For women, short or revealing dresses are not appropriate. Avoid anything that might upstage the bride, including head-to-toe crystals or a tiara. Bright colours and casual shoes are also not recommended.

Black-Tie Accessories:

Accessories should be elegant and refined. For men, this includes cufflinks, a cummerbund, a pocket square, and a bow tie or necktie. For women, sleek heels, gorgeous jewellery, and an elegant clutch are perfect additions. Pearls or diamonds are always a good choice.

Hair and Makeup:

There are no specific guidelines for hair and makeup, but the overall look should be polished and formal. Updos like chignons or an elegant ponytail are a great way to showcase jewellery or a statement necklace. Makeup can be a smokey eye with a nude lip or highlighted cheeks with a red lip. For men, a trimmed beard is preferred over an unkempt one.

Appropriate footwear

When it comes to footwear for an outdoor black-tie wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure both style and functionality. Here are some tips for choosing the appropriate footwear for such an event:

For Women:

• Heel Type and Height: The type of heel you choose can make a significant difference in your comfort and stability, especially if the wedding is held on grass or uneven terrain. Instead of stilettos, opt for block or wedge heels, which will provide more support and prevent you from sinking into the ground. If you prefer a more delicate look, go for a thinner heel with a wider base, which will give you more stability than a typical stiletto. Additionally, consider the height of the heel and choose a pair that you can comfortably walk in. You don't want to stumble or struggle throughout the event.
• Flat Shoes: If heels aren't your style or if you want to give your feet a break, flat shoes are also an option. Elegant flats, dressy sandals, or loafers can be paired with your outfit to create a sophisticated and comfortable look.
• Colour and Style: When selecting the colour of your shoes, consider the colour palette of your outfit. You can match your shoes to your dress or choose a complementary colour. Metallics, such as gold or silver, can also be a great choice, adding a touch of glamour to your ensemble. As for style, opt for sleek and elegant designs. You can never go wrong with classic styles that have a timeless appeal.

For Men:

• Dress Shoes: For men, dress shoes are the typical choice for a black-tie wedding. Loafers, derbies, oxfords, and monk straps are all excellent options. These shoes should reflect the formality of the event, so choose polished leather or velvet finishes for an elegant touch.
• Colour: Black is the traditional colour for men's shoes at a black-tie event. However, if your attire calls for a different colour, you can certainly opt for something other than black. Just ensure it complements your overall look.
• Laces: If you choose a laced shoe, be mindful of the style. Laces can add a touch of sophistication, but some event venues, especially outdoors, may pose challenges for delicate laces. Consider the terrain and opt for styles where the laces are less likely to come undone or get damaged.
• Socks: Don't forget the importance of socks! Black socks are the standard choice for a black-tie event, but you can also match your sock colour to your attire, ensuring they complement the rest of your ensemble.

Accessories

For Women:

Women have a lot of options when it comes to accessories for a black-tie wedding. Here are some suggestions:

• Shoes: Opt for sleek heels or dressy flats/loafers to pair with your gown.
• Jewelry: Go for elegant jewelry, such as diamonds or pearls, especially if your dress is muted.
• Clutch: Carry an elegant clutch, such as a formal purse or an evening clutch made of satin, patent leather, or a fabric that matches your shoes or dress.
• Hair and Makeup: Consider an elegant hairstyle such as a chignon, updo, or cascading curls. For makeup, choose one feature to highlight, like a smokey eye with a nude lip or dewy, highlighted cheeks with a red lip.

For Men:

Men's accessories for a black-tie wedding should reflect the formality of the attire. Here are some recommendations:

• Shoes: Choose shoes that reflect the formality of the event, such as loafers, derbies, or monk straps. Black is the typical colour choice, but you can opt for a different colour if your attire dictates it.
• Socks: Black socks are the standard choice for a black-tie event.
• Bow Tie: A bow tie is the typical choice for a black-tie wedding, and it should be in a dark colour like black, navy, or a deep jewel tone.
• Cufflinks and Shirt Studs: Cufflinks and shirt studs add a touch of elegance to your outfit.
• Vest or Cummerbund: You can wear a vest or a cummerbund, but never both together.

Daytime vs evening events

Black-tie weddings are usually formal evening events. However, some couples may opt for a daytime ceremony followed by a black-tie reception in the evening.

Daytime Events

Daytime events allow for more freedom in terms of dress length and colour. For instance, a blue floral midi dress or a tea-length dress are appropriate for a daytime wedding. Lighter fabrics such as chiffon or pure silk are also suitable for daytime, especially in warmer weather.

Evening Events

Evening events are usually more formal, and guests are expected to wear floor-length gowns and suits or tuxedos. The colour palette for evening events tends to be darker and more subdued, with colours like black, navy, grey, emerald, sapphire, and burgundy being popular choices.

Accessories

Accessories can include elegant jewellery, such as diamonds or pearls, and dress shoes. For men, loafers, derbies, and monk strap shoes are appropriate.

Frequently asked questions