What to Wear to a White Tie Dress Code

At formal occasions, there are certain expectations about how you should dress. Dress codes indicate the etiquette you as a guest should follow. Have you received an invitation with 'cravate blanche' or 'white tie' on it? Then you need to adjust your outfit to the white tie dress code. In this article, we take you through 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 avoid.

Formal menswear encompasses various garments and outfits that you must wear according to certain style rules. That's why a dress code is provided at formal occasions and celebrations. When you're invited to such an event, you should 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 you should wear for the white tie dress code differs for men and women. That's why GENTS first discusses white tie etiquette for men. We then cover what you should wear as a woman for the white tie dress code.

Men

When the white tie dress code is indicated on the invitation, you should dress as a man in a tailcoat. This suit is characterised by its very formal appearance. Of course, you can't simply put on a formal suit that resembles a tailcoat. The idea is that you wear a complete tailcoat that complies with the etiquette of the white tie dress code.

A tailcoat is always five-piece. This means the suit consists of a tailcoat jacket, dress shirt, waistcoat, bow tie and tailcoat trousers. The tailcoat jacket is particularly characteristic. You recognise this jacket by its short front panels and long cut-away tails at the back. Additionally, the wing collar is iconic for the dress shirt.

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 at certain universities. You complete your tailcoat with a white bow tie, white pocket square and black patent leather shoes. For the traditional look, you should finally wear white gloves.

Would you like more information about the white tie dress code? GENTS is more than happy to explain the white tie etiquette for men!

Women

For women, white tie dress code is much less defined by etiquette. In other words, you can express yourself and wear virtually anything from your wardrobe for your perfect outfit. Since white tie etiquette is the most formal, you are expected to pay proper attention to your outfit. For a white tie event, you can typically wear a long, classic evening gown or a formal ball gown that reaches the ankle. Some décolletage is acceptable. Actually, the only requirement is that the dress is one piece.

Furthermore, the details are decisive for a white tie outfit for women. Eye-catching accessories are a real must-have. Think of pearls or stylish crystals. Finally, pay proper attention to your make-up. Ensure you create an elegant look. Generally, white tie events favour classic make-up.

What should you not wear for white tie?

Of course, anyone can make a mistake, especially if you're not fully aware of the rules or guidelines you should follow. A breach of dress code etiquette is called a faux pas. Of course, there are also things you should definitely not wear for the white tie dress code. If you do? Then you commit a faux pas. For example, it's important that you don't wear a watch, under the guise of "time flies when you're having fun".

Furthermore, it's important that especially women pay attention to what they wear. Due to the freedom women have with the white tie dress code, it's sometimes difficult to judge whether you're not in breach. In that case, it's especially good to remember that you should keep it elegant and classic. For example, don't wear a short dress and definitely don't wear sneakers. If you keep it tasteful and refined, it will surely be fine!