The most elegant celebrations call for the most formal wear. “White tie” on an invitation signifies the ultimate in traditional, conservative fashion.
No fooling around and no rock-star flashiness.
Gentlemen wear long, black, traditional dinner jackets with two tails, as gentlemen of distinction have done since the days of the wealthy Lollard in Tuxedo Park, New York.
A gentleman complements the jacket with a white vest instead of a cummerbund, along with a matching, white, pique stoop tie.
It is not out of the question for a gentleman to purchase new formal shoes for a white tie event. Shoes must be black, and they must be polished until they gleam under the ballroom lights.
When dancing with ladies, gentlemen should wear matching white gloves.
Diplomats and military officials may ornament their dinner jackets with small pins or medals that denote rank, distinctions, awards, or countries of origin.
An honored at a celebration may also opt to wear a medal on a sash over his vest.
Formal Fashion Guide: What to Wear When ?
Ladies at white tie events must always wear very long, very formal evening gowns.
If a lady is avoiding white or black at a wedding celebration, she can select deep, rich hues of violet or burgundy to add to the festive mood.
Ladies almost always wear long gloves to white tie events, which they should remove once seated for dinner.
