Black tie is a semi-formal Western dress code for evening events, traditionally worn after 6 p.m. It originated in the 19th century in British and North American fashion and is typically associated with formal occasions such as dinners, balls, weddings, and galas
. For men, black tie means wearing a tuxedo (called a dinner jacket in British English), which is a black, midnight blue, or white two- or three-piece suit distinguished by satin or grosgrain lapels and matching stripes on the trousers. The ensemble includes a white dress shirt (often with a wing collar and double cuffs), a black bow tie, and black patent leather shoes. Accessories may include a cummerbund or waistcoat and sometimes formal hats
. The bow tie is essential and distinguishes black tie from a regular suit and tie
. For women, black tie typically calls for an evening gown or other fashionable evening attire, often floor-length dresses, though styles can vary depending on the event's formality
. Black tie attire represents elegance, sophistication, and respect for the event's formality, setting a refined tone for the occasion. It is less formal than white tie but more formal than a standard business suit
. In summary, "black tie" means dressing in a tuxedo with a black bow tie for men and formal evening wear for women, appropriate for upscale evening social events
