At formal occasions, there is an expectation of how you should dress. Through dress codes, we indicate which etiquette you as a guest must follow. Have you received an invitation that says ‘cravate blanche’ or ‘white tie’? Then you must adjust your outfit to the white tie dress code. In this article, we take you into the world of white tie etiquette. We explain what to pay attention to, which rules apply, what you wear for a white tie dress code, and what you should definitely not do.
Formal men's fashion includes various garments and outfits that you should wear according to certain style rules must wear. Therefore, at formal occasions and festivities, a dress code is provided. When you are invited to such an event, you are expected to adjust your outfit to the dress code. The associated etiquette naturally applies to both men and women. Generally, the white tie dress code is worn at very formal occasions such as galas, special dinners, or weddings.
The white tie dress code
What exactly you should wear for the white tie dress code differs for men and women. Therefore, GENTS first discusses the white tie etiquette for men. Then we cover what women should wear for the white tie dress code.
Men
When the white tie dress code is indicated on the invitation, then as a man you must dress in a tailcoat suit. This suit is characterized by its very formal appearance. Of course, you can't just wear any formal suit that looks like a tailcoat suit. The intention is that you wear a complete tailcoat suit that complies with the etiquette of the white tie dress code.
This means a tailcoat suit is always five-piece. This means that this suit consists of a tailcoat, tail shirt, tail vest, tail bow tie, and tailcoat trousers. Especially the tailcoats characteristic. You recognize this jacket by the short front panels and the long cut panels at the back. In addition, for the tail shirt the father-murderer collar iconic.
With a tailcoat, you wear a waistcoat, or gilet. Generally, you wear this in white. However, at certain occasions, a black waistcoat is required. Think of special ceremonies or events of some universities. You complete your tailcoat with a white bow tie, white pocket square and black patent leather shoes. For the traditional look, you must finally wear white gloves.
Would you like even more information about the white tie dress code? GENTS is more than happy to explain the white tie etiquette for gentlemen out!
Ladies
For the ladies, the white tie dress code is much less fixed in etiquette. In other words, you can indulge yourself and pull almost anything out of the closet for your perfect outfit. Since the white tie etiquette is the most formal, it is expected that you pay the necessary attention to your outfit. For a white tie event, you can usually wear a long, classic evening gown or a neat ball gown that falls to the heel. Some décolleté is allowed. Actually, the only condition is that the dress consists of one piece.
In addition, the details are decisive for a white tie outfit for ladies. Striking accessories are a real must-have. Think of pearls or stylish crystals. Finally, pay the necessary attention to your makeup. Make sure you create an elegant look. Generally, the preference at white tie events is for classic makeup.
What should you not wear with white tie?
Of course, anyone can make a mistake, especially if you are not fully aware of the rules or guidelines you must follow. A violation of the etiquette of a dress code is called a faux pasOf course, there are also things you definitely should not wear with the white tie dress code. If you do? Then you commit a faux pas. For example, it is important that you do not wear a watch, under the motto "good company knows no time."
Furthermore, it is important that especially the ladies pay attention to what they wear. Due to the freedom ladies have with the white tie dress code, it is sometimes difficult to judge whether you are violating the rules. In that case, it is especially good to remember to keep it elegant and classic. For example, do not wear a short dress and definitely do not wear sneakers. If you keep it tasteful and refined, it will surely turn out well!
