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Semi-Formal (Black Tie/Dinner Jacket/Stroller) Evening For Him
(USA and Canada)
In General suggest another item to be added
Semi-Formal? The dress code below is traditionally known as 'Semi-Formal' and is often known as 'Black Tie', however sometimes 'Semi-Formal' is used to request suits and dresses (which is traditionally known as 'Informal' dress).
If there is any doubt which was intended then this is worth clarrifying. |
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Day or Evening Dress? Within the more formal dress codes there is a different code for day and evening functions.
Be sure to use the correct dress code. |
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Hat suggest another item to be added
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Hats are not worn for Semi-Formal evening wear
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Neck suggest another item to be added
Tie Black silk or satin bow tie.
Hand tied is best. |
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Scarf
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Jacket suggest another item to be added
Tuxedo Ideally black.
Other colors can be acceptable.
White can be acceptable in tropical climates.
Satin or silk (ribbed) lapels. |
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Vest suggest another item to be added
Vest Ideally black.
Other colors can be acceptable.
Low cut.
Full satin back. |
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Cummerbund Ideally black.
Other colors can be acceptable.
(Worn with the pleats upwards.)
(Worn instead of a vest.) |
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Top suggest another item to be added
Dress Shirt Stiff Collar.
Double cuffed with long collar if worn with a long tie.
Single cuffed and winged if worn with a cravat such as at weddings.
White.
Cotton, linen, or silk.
If not worn with studs the shirt often has a flap of material over the buttons.
Marcella, piqué or pleated front.
True traditionalists have detachable collar and cuffs. |
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Bottom suggest another item to be added
Dress Pants Black.
One satin, silk or ribbon seam on the outside leg to match jacket lapels.
No turn ups/cuffs. No belt loops (normally worn with suspenders). |
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Ankles suggest another item to be added
Socks Black.
Knee length.
Silk (ribbed) |
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Footwear suggest another item to be added
Dress Shoes Black.
Lace up.
No toe cap or decorative brogueing.
Patent leather in the evening, non-patent leather during the day. |
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Court Shoes / Opera Pumps / Dress Pumps Patent leather.
Silk (ribbed) bow. |
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Accessories suggest another item to be added
Cufflinks | Preferably black or gold. |
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Studs Preferably black or gold.
Optional but recommended. |
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Suspenders
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Handkerchief White silk or linen.
Colored with a white Tuxedo. |
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Dress Code Variants suggest another item to be added
Black Tie Optional? If the invitation requests 'Black Tie Optional', then this means exactly that.
If you feel more comfortable in black tie or wish to convey your respect to your hosts or fellow guests, wear Black Tie. If you prefer not to dress so formally, a dark lounge suit will be sufficient.
Ladies also get a free choice of evening wear. Anything from Evening Gown to Cocktail dress would be more than suitable. Dressy separates could also be considered.
Obviously some guests will be wearing Black Tie, so all clothing should be of the highest quality. |
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Creative Black Tie? If the invitation requests 'Creative Black Tie', or some other variation on the 'Black Tie' code, this generally means that, for him, more modern pants and tuxedo is acceptable. Maybe a black shirt, a long tie or some other local neckwear.
The key thing is that the suit and tuxedo should be black and dressy.
For her, there's more creativity with her dress length, or even wear dressy evening separates.
Obviously, follow any themes requested in the dress code, but remember this is still intended to be a classy event. |
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Alternatives suggest another item to be added
Military Mess Uniform A military mess uniform is suitable for a semi-formal event.
You must be entitled to wear the uniform.
In the navy 'Mess Undress' is worn for semi-formal events. |
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Scottish Dress Scottish dress is suitable for semi-formal events, and is common in Scotland. However, you should be sure to have a claim upon a tartan before wearing it.
Scottish dress consists of a black jacket (Prince Charlie, Montrose, Sheriffmuir, Argyll), black waistcoat, kilt or trews (a form of hightop trouser without side seams, and cut on the cross-grain), winged dress shirt (see above), black bow tie, kilt hose, black Ghillie brogues, flashes and sporran. |
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Traditional Dress | Traditional dress is always appropriate for semi-formal events. |
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