A gala or black-tie event is one of the few occasions left that calls for real glamour. If the invitation says "black tie", there is no need to panic: the rules are simpler than they sound, and they leave plenty of room for personal style.
What black tie means for women
Black tie is the most formal dress code most of us will ever see on an invitation (only "white tie" is stricter). For men it means a tuxedo; for women it traditionally means a floor-length evening gown. A very elegant cocktail dress may pass at some events, but a long gown is always the safe and sophisticated choice.
Floor-length gowns
Choose a maxi dress that reaches the floor, or just skims it, in your heels. Popular silhouettes include:
- Column and sheath for sleek, modern elegance.
- Mermaid and fit-and-flare for drama and curves.
- A-line and ball gowns for a classic, romantic look.
- One-shoulder or off-the-shoulder necklines for a statement.
Fabrics and colours
Rich fabrics look the part: satin, silk, crepe, velvet, chiffon and tulle, plus sequin and beaded embellishment. Black is the classic choice, but jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, ruby and deep plum look stunning, as do gold, silver and champagne. Our colour and skin tone guide will help you find your best shade.
Modest black-tie options
Black tie is easy to wear modestly. Look for long-sleeve gowns, high necklines and floor-length A-line or kaftan silhouettes. A sleeveless gown can be layered with a sheer long-sleeve top or an elegant cape. See our modest dresses and our modest evening dress guide for more ideas.
Accessories and hair
Choose one focal point: chandelier earrings with an updo, a statement necklace with a strapless neckline, or a sparkling clutch with a minimal gown. Closed-toe heels or elegant strappy sandals both work. Formal hair, such as a sleek chignon, glamorous waves or a polished low bun, completes the look and shows off the neckline. Bring a wrap, a stole or a tailored coat for arriving and leaving.
Black tie optional and creative black tie
- Black tie optional: slightly more flexible. A floor-length gown is still ideal, but a chic cocktail dress, an elegant midi or a dressy two-piece set is acceptable.
- Creative black tie: formal, with room for fun. Think bold colours, unexpected prints, feathers, metallics or a dramatic sleeve, while keeping the level of formality high.
Whichever code you are dressing for, order early so you can try the gown with your shoes, and check the size guide on each product page: between two sizes, choose the larger one.
