Style Guide · Black Tie
Black tie optional
The invitation says "black tie optional" or "formal". Here's what that means, and how to choose between the tux and the dark suit.
"Black tie optional" means the same thing in practice as "formal" on an invitation: the hosts are wearing black tie, and you're welcome to join them, but a dark suit is fine too.
The tuxedo
- A black or midnight blue tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie.
- Studs and cufflinks, and black shoes with a shine.
- For an evening event, this is the safer choice. You'll match the hosts.
The dark suit
- Navy, charcoal or black. Nothing light.
- A white shirt and a dark tie, or a black bow tie if you want to go one step up.
- A white pocket square finishes it.
How to choose
- Evening: the tux.
- Daytime: the dark suit.
- Not sure? Go one step more formal. It's easier to take off a tie than to wish you'd worn one.
Rent or buy?
Rent the tux for one night. If you go to two or three formal events a year, owning one makes sense, and we fit it to you.
Bring the invitation. We'll help you read it and put the look together.
Outfit ideas.
Classic black tuxedo
Midnight blue tuxedo
Black suit and tie
Navy suit, patterned tie
Tux with a vest
Style tips.
- Evening event? Lean to the tux.
- With a suit, go dark: navy, charcoal or black.
- Keep it simple: one detail, like a pocket square.
- Renting? Come in about a month ahead.
Colours.
Black
Midnight Blue
Charcoal
Silver
White
When in doubt, wear the tux. Nobody goes home wishing he'd dressed down.
Questions.
- What does black tie optional mean?
- A tuxedo is welcome but not required. A dark suit with a white shirt and a dark tie is just as right.
- Is "formal" the same as black tie optional?
- Close to it. A tuxedo or a dark suit with a tie both work. If you're unsure, ask the hosts or go with the tux.
- Should I wear a tux or a suit to a black tie optional wedding?
- If it's in the evening, the tux. If it's in the daytime, a dark suit is the easier choice.
- Can I rent a tux for one night?
- Yes. A single rental: come in about a month ahead so your size is reserved.
More advice
Advice from the San Marko fitting room, 718 Central Park Ave, Yonkers, NY. Family-run since the early 1970s.
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