Mastering the Art of a White Tie Dress code
By: Irina KhaiWhite Tie Dress Code: Let’s Nail This Fancy Attire Together! Hey there! So, you’ve got an invite to a white tie event? Wow, that’s super exciting—and just a bit intimidating, right? Don't worry, I've got all the deets to help you totally rock this ultra-formal dress code. By the end of this, you'll be ready to strut into that event like you own the place! So, What Exactly is White Tie? Okay, picture this: white tie is the fanciest of the fancy. It's the top tier of dress codes, even more formal than black tie. Think royalty, state dinners, or those ultra-glamorous weddings you see in movies. It's all about elegance and sophistication. A Little Slice of History White tie has been around since the early 1800s. It was the dress code for European aristocrats and high society events. Fast forward to today, and it still screams "class" and "tradition." What You Need to Wear For the Gents Tailcoat: Not just any coat, but a black tailcoat with a cutaway front and long tails at the back. Trousers: High-waisted black trousers with a subtle satin stripe down the side. Shirt: A crisp white wing-collared shirt. It’s gotta be pristine. Waistcoat: A low-cut white piqué or Marcella waistcoat. Think sharp and sleek. Bow Tie: A white bow tie, matching the waistcoat for that seamless look. Shoes: Polished patent leather shoes. They should shine like a mirror! Accessories: White gloves (totally optional, but oh-so-classy). And maybe even a pocket watch for a touch of vintage cool. For the Ladies Gown: A full-length, Cinderella-worthy ball gown. Silk or satin are perfect. Gloves: Long, elegant gloves add a touch of drama (in a good way). Hair: An elegant updo, something stylish but sophisticated. Jewelry: Go big but keep it classy. Think diamond necklaces, glam earrings, maybe even a tiara if you’re feeling extra. Footwear: Elegant heels, but make sure you can dance in them! Accessories: A tiny clutch and maybe a fur stole to keep things interesting. Fun Tidbits and Handy Tips Did You Know? Back in the day, white tie was considered casual compared to older, more extravagant styles. Crazy, right? Men often wore a boutonnière—a small flower in the buttonhole of their lapel. It’s a charming detail. A Few Tips to Keep in Mind Fit is Everything: Get those clothes tailored. You want to look like they were made just for you. Practice Tying that Bow Tie: If you’re new to it, practice a few times so you can nail it on the night. Accessorize with Class: Go for timeless pieces, nothing too flashy. Mind Your Manners: These events often have a lot of tradition tied to them. Brush up on your etiquette! Ready to Turn Heads? White tie events are such a fun excuse to go all out and dress to the nines. Embrace it and have fun with the glamour! Got any outfit ideas you're excited about? I’d love to hear all about them!