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Black Tie Evening For Her
(UK and Common Wealth)
In General
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. |
| Evening GownA long flowing dress.
Evening Gowns come in various lengths: Tea which is from mid calf to ankle, Ballerina which is to the ankle, and Full Length which is to the floor.
Suitable materials include chiffon, velvet, satin, and silk. |
| Cocktail DressA short gown.
Also known as a 'Dancing Costume' or a 'Cocktail Gown'.
Ranging in length from just above the knee to about two inches above the ankle (Tea length), however the longer length is appropriate to semi-formal wear.
Popular materials include silk, satin and chiffon.
Less elaborate dresses are most appropriate for semi-formal wear. |
| | Dressy Dinner Suit |
Hat
| Hats are not worn for Semi-Formal evening wear |
Coat
| Luxury Coat | CapeA short cloak which just covers the shoulders or extends to the waist.
Typically black.
Velvet, silk, or satin. |
| CloakA loose over garment which covers the wearer and their evening dress from shoulders to ankles, normally fastening at the neck. There are no arms.
Wool, cashmere, velvet, satin, silk and fur are all common materials for evening cloaks.
Good quality linings and trimmings. |
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Top
Camisole| Lace. To complement a Ball Skirt. |
| Sweater| Cashmere. To complement a Ball Skirt. |
| Dressy Top| To complement a Ball Skirt. |
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Bottom
Ball SkirtFull long skirt as an alternative to a gown.
A relatively recent innovation. |
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Footwear
Formal Shoes| To suit your gown or skirt. |
| Sandals| To suit your gown or skirt. |
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Accessories
JewelryAs much as you feel is appropriate.
Show off your best. |
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Dress Code Variants
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 concidered.
Obviously some guests will be wearing Black Tie, so all clothing should be of the highest quality. |
| 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 trousers and dinner jacket is acceptable. Maybe a black shirt, a long tie or some other local neckwear.
The key thing is that the suit and dinner jacket 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
Scottish DressA White Gown with a tartan sash.
Alternatively a long kilted skirt with a jacket.
The tarten of the lady or her companion can be used for the skirt or sash, or a 'district' tarten approved for general use can be used. |
| Traditional Dress| Traditional dress is always appropriate for semi-formal events. |
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