It’s obvious that the black-tie dress code was based around a male-orientated event. We don't go around saying floor-length ball gown dress code and expect the men to know exactly what to wear… nonetheless, we are going to answer the following questions;
It's important to note that the lines of what is acceptable continues to blur as fashion evolves and emulates innovation - rather, the best thing to measure is the level of effort one goes to when selecting and whether it sits in the parameters of what's expected - then it's up to you if you want to break that or not.
So what is a black-tie dress code?
Traditionally, black-tie attire for women translates to a long floor-length gown using fabrics like silk, velvet, lace, or chiffon…
Once again, this is in a traditional sense, and you need to remember that a black-tie dress code on the red carpet in Manhattan is not the same as a black-tie dress code for ‘James and Jenna's engagement party’.
The best way to navigate determining the level of formality is to get the inside scoop - go straight to the source, Go beyond enemy lines and find out what the competition is wearing (Not that you want to dress better than the person hosting the party… or do you?)
The Sum Up
- As a default, go long, elegant with a few statement piece accessories
- Avoiding default, don't be scared to ask the host, what the expectation is and what they are wearing to the event, odds are they have nailed their own idea of how they want everyone to look.
Here are a few of our favourites this season - all these styles nail the brief for the black tie dress code. These styles work well for all black tie events including, gala events, awards nights, weddings and charity balls.
The House of CB Adrienne Corset Gown is cut from a high quality satin that drapes across the body. The built in corset allows for a flattering hourglass silhouette. This dress is all about luxury which is why we think it makes the perfect black tie outfit. You can never go wrong with a classic style, which is why we know you will love this dress as much as we do.
The Lexi Samira Dress is a fan favourite style for all formal and black tie occasions. A glamorous floor-length, one shoulder style made from a stretch satin. This style is extremely flattering and elegant, and makes the perfect black tie dress as it nails the black tie dress code. We love this style as a wedding guest or if you are attending a ball.
This style is available in burgundy, orion blue, black, white and pacific blue diamante.
The Tinaholly Lucille Gown is a full skirt gown which is guaranteed to have you feeling like a princess. Although this dress features a strapless design, it has a padded bust for extra support. With side pockets and a slit in the skirt, this black tie dress is comfortable and easy to wear. We love this dress for black tie events especially charity balls as it exudes luxury and elegance.
This style is available in colours navy and red.
The Nookie Veda Gown is a striking one shoulder gown made from a luxurious stretch sequin for ultimate comfort. Along with the bodycon material that flatters the figure, the Veda Gown features a shoulder pad that gives an hourglass silhouette. This chic dress is one of our favourites, especially for black tie events such as charity balls. This black tie dress comes in a range of colours which allows you to determine which tone is best suited to your natural features. We love this dress and we know it will have you looking and feeling glamorous.
The Lia Stublla Eviana Gown is a beautiful strapless gown featuring an asymmetric neckline with a corset bodice. This dress gives a stunning hourglass silhouette, that is guaranteed to have you feeling glamorous. Featuring a long train and thigh high split, this style exudes drama. Stand out in this formal gown that is sure to turn heads at your next event as it nails the black tie dress code.
This gorgeous gown is available in colours red, emerald, white and black.
The Albina Dyla Victorie Gown exudes luxury and elegance. This black tie dress features a statement neckline, a fitted waist with a corset style design, and black stones adorning the bodice. This glamorous gown is perfect for special occasions where you want to stand out. With a long dramatic train, this dress is guaranteed to make a statement. We love this wedding guest dress for if you are attending a black tie wedding.
The Pasduchas Composure Gown is a classic style that is perfect for any black tie or formal event. This dress features a draped neckline for extra coverage, making this style the perfect modest piece. A flattering form fit dress that has an added bonus of comfort for easy-to-wear and effortless styling. This classic and timeless dress showcases its versatility through its ability to be dressed up with accessories or dressed down for more cocktail events.
The Rebecca Vallance Chloe Gown is a gorgeous full length gown crafted from a combination of luxurious crepe and taffeta fabrics. The neckline adds a touch of femininity and sophistication which is what the black tie dress code is all about. This gown offers both style and comfort which is all you want in a black tie outfit. A modest style that suits all ages, you cannot go wrong with this stunning dress for a black tie event.
The Lia Stublla Macie Gown will make any occasion special. It features a full-boned corset bodice, lace-up back, and voluminous full-skirt with a thigh-high leg split that exudes luxury and charm. A style that is perfect for those who want an A-line fit. This true princess style gown is guaranteed to have you feeling glamorous for your next formal event.
This style is available in black and red.
The House of CB Persephone Corset Dress is a gorgeous corset formal dress that is guaranteed to have all eyes on you at your formal. A glamorous style that features a beautifully draped skirt in a satin material, and a balconette style necklined bodice. A flattering silhouette in the colour black for a timeless and classic look. Pair this stunning formal dress with neutrals for an elegant look, or a pop of colour to add a touch of playfulness for your next event.
This style is available in black, red and smoke.
The Tania Olsen Ondine Dress is a gorgeous black formal dress designed to make you shine at your next special event. This black tie dress features a sheer strapless corset with exposed bonding, and lace applique intricate detailing to enhance the dress's allure. With a side leg split and long train to follow, this dress is the perfect balance of drama and elegance. A standout style in classic black to make styling easy and effortless.
The Aje Violette Bubble Hem Maxi Dress is the dress of the season and we can understand why. This stunning drop waist design, features a flattering fitted bodice that flows into a high-low hemmed skirt. A versatile style can be dressed up for a black tie event or dressed down for cocktail. Styled in whichever way, this dress is guaranteed to exude dramatic elegance.
This style is available in colours black, lavender print, pastel pink and magenta pink.
If you're asking about black-tie events because you're considering throwing one yourself keep reading, if you want to know what a black-tie dress code looks like scroll back up, you missed it!
Here are a few events that would ‘suit’ a black-tie dress code.
A gala dinner is an event hosted at night generally consisting of a 3-course meal, guest speakers and entertainment in support of a cause, service, award, or celebration.
When you hear awards night, you probably think Grammys, Oscars, Tony's or even the Logies, but Awards nights can be internal business events presenting employees with awards & gratification, or they can be business or tourism awards. Whatever the reason, black-tie dress codes are often seen attached to award ceremonies - who doesn't want to look their best when they’re taking out first prize.
A Charity Ball is the perfect occasion to sport a black-tie dress code. Patrons get to dress up, socialise, enjoy entertainment, food and drink, and most importantly, raise money for a worthy cause.
Weddings can be held at all sorts of venues with all sorts of dress codes assigned to them. Some common dress codes for weddings include, formal, cocktail, semi-formal or, growing in popularity, black tie. Black Tie weddings will generally involve a large venue with many guests.
Some people mistake the black-tie dress code as limiting their attire to nothing but black, this isn’t the case. But that doesn't mean you can't wear black either. Do - don’t, it’s up to you. We wouldn’t base it on whether you should or shouldn’t, can or cannot - base it on the level of formality, what your counterpart is wearing, and how glamorous and invigorated you want to feel that night!
One thing to consider is that most males (depending on the event formality) will be in black, which may dull the impression you're going for. If you want to make an impressionable statement, save it for a white tie event… or a wedding.
If you have chosen black for your black-tie event, here are a few tips on how to style your black dress for the party.
As we said before, most males will be in black, so you want to partner with a statement piece that will stick out amongst a room full of penguins.
If you want to make a statement, you may have to spend to do so. The option of renting a dress is there - we give gals the opportunity to wear something fresh without having to stick on the water for the rest of the night due to spendage…
Work with the dress that you have on, draw focus to the areas you’d like to show off and don’t go overboard. If your dress is more open at the front, wear a low hanging statement necklace - if it’s higher, wear a simple necklace and show off some statement earrings instead. Don’t try go for both, it may look busy and overcrowded.
A dress that covers your neck will naturally make you look shorter, whereas exposing your neck will add height. Consider wearing it up or down according to the style of your black dress.
Understanding how to style your black dress for a party will depend on the formality of the party. If it’s black-tie, typically, women would go for a longer piece. If it’s cocktail - long, short and mid-length are acceptable. If there are any chances of a boogie later on, don’t restrict your dance moves - go for a shorter cut dress.
For more black-tie dress options, see our collection.
Navigating the black tie dress code can be tricky. Remember that black tie does not necessarily mean you have to wear a black dress. You can opt for colour, however consider the formality of the event and what other guests may be wearing.
You can hire all these black tie dresses mentioned above for a fraction of the retail price. Look and feel glamorous without having to endure the hefty price tag. Our convenient hiring system allows you to have a wider range of styles available within your budget, and you will also never have to outfit repeat again!
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