If your invitation to a formal night out describes the dress code as ‘Black Tie’, ‘Strict Black Tie’, ‘Black Tie only’, ‘Black Tie required’ or ‘Black Tie compulsory’ or any phrase of a similar nature then it indicates that the event hosts expect you to wear a black tuxedo jacket / dinner suit to your event without exception.

This should be worn together optionally with a black cummerbund around the waist. A white dress shirt should be worn together with a black bow tie, black shoes with the entire look being accessorised and finished off with a white satin handkerchief in the tuxedo jacket left breast pocket.

There shouldn’t be any deviation from this with respect to a ‘Black Tie required’ formal event, particularly if it’s an evening event in the wintertime.

Essentially the hosts of the event want your attire to match the uniformity, elegance and sophistication of the evening they have prepared and arranged, and nothing expresses this better than an elegant and sophisticated striking black tuxedo.

A smart lounge suit or business suit simply won’t do for an event described as ‘strictly black tie’ or similar’.

You may find your invitation states something to the effect of ‘Black Tie preferred’, or perhaps ‘Black Tie’ requested.

Essentially this means the sky isn’t falling should you decide not to wear the strict black tie attire detailed above for whatever reason. However, the host would still expect their guests to wear smart dark formal eveningwear such as a black dinner suit / lounge suit.

If hiring isn’t for you, Chaplins have a range of suits available to purchase, in either 2pc or also with matching waistcoats and accessories including bow ties, pocket squares and cummerbunds. Please contact us for advice and a quote