Black Tie & White Tie Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Black Tie dress code?

  Black Tie is the most classic and widely recognized formal evening dress code for gentlemen. It calls for a tuxedo (also known as a dinner jacket), a black silk bow tie, a formal white shirt, and carefully chosen accessories. The ensemble is designed to evoke understated sophistication, making the wearer look his most debonair and polished.

• What are the essential components of a Black Tie outfit?

  • Tuxedo Jacket: Single or double-breasted, typically in black or midnight blue, with silk-faced peak or shawl lapels and cloth-covered buttons.
  • Formal Evening Trousers: Matching the jacket, with a single silk braid down the outside of each leg.
  • Formal Evening Shirt: White, with a pleated or piqué (marcella) front, turn-down collar, and double cuffs for cufflinks.
  • Bow Tie: Black silk, hand-tied for authenticity and style.
  • Waist Covering: Either a black silk cummerbund or a low-cut formal evening waistcoat (never both), or a double-breasted jacket.
  • Footwear: Black patent leather oxfords or opera pumps, paired with black dress socks.
  • Accessories: Studs, cufflinks, silk formal evening socks, and a white pocket square, with a boutonnière for a touch of color

• What are the most common mistakes to avoid with Black Tie?

  1. Wearing a regular suit instead of a tuxedo.
  2. Opting for a pre-tied or clip-on bow tie rather than a hand-tied one.
  3. Choosing the wrong shirt style; don't wear a regular white button-up shirt.
  4. Wearing inappropriate shoes, such as loafers or brown dress shoes.
  5. Mixing a cummerbund with a waistcoat; choose one, never both.
  6. Over-accessorizing or selecting items that are too flashy.

• How does Fort Belvedere elevate the Black Tie experience?

  Fort Belvedere offers a curated selection of Black Tie accessories crafted from the finest materials: silk bow ties, elegant cummerbunds, mother-of-pearl cufflinks, and hand-rolled pocket squares. Each piece is designed with historical accuracy and modern comfort in mind, ensuring you look impeccable and feel confident at any formal event. Our in-depth guides and product descriptions provide the knowledge to help you master every detail of Black Tie attire

• What is the White Tie dress code?

  White Tie is the most formal dress code in Western fashion, reserved for prestigious occasions such as state banquets, royal ceremonies, and high-society balls. It demands strict adherence to traditional attire for both men and women, signifying the utmost level of elegance and sophistication.

• What should men wear to a Whtie Tie event?

  Men are expected to wear:

  • A black tailcoat (evening dress coat) with matching black trousers featuring a satin or braid stripe
  • A stiff white shirt with a wing collar and a piqué or pleated front
  • A white piqué waistcoat and a white bow tie
  • Black patent leather shoes and black dress socks
  • Shirt studs, cufflinks, and optional accessories such as white or gray gloves, a boutonniere, and a pocket watch

• How does White Tie differ from Black Tie?

  White Tie is more formal than Black Tie. Key differences include:

  • Men wear a tailcoat and white bow tie for White Tie, versus a tuxedo and black bow tie for Black Tie
  • White Tie requires a white waistcoat, while Black Tie uses a cummerbund, black waistcoat, or double-breasted jacket.
  • Top hats or homburgs can be worn with Black Tie, while only Top Hats should be worn with White Tie.

• Can I wear a regular suit to a Black Tie event?

  No, a standard business suit, even in dark colors, does not meet the requirements of Black Tie. Only a proper tuxedo or dinner jacket is appropriate. Black Tie Optional events may permit a dark suit, but for true Black Tie, a tuxedo is essential.