What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Event

Want to now what to wear to a black tie optional event? The feelings about this can go either way. The excitement of finally having a reason to get dressed up, to “oh no, what does that mean”? I’m here to guide you on your options for black-tie optional weddings and formal events. This post is geared towards women of course, but we will touch on men’s attire as well.

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission from the brand for directing you to these products, however it is no additional cost to you.

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Event

What Does Black Tie Optional Mean?

The word “optional” implies that you have the option to get really fancy if you want to. But I think what the hosts are really asking is- please dress up! Otherwise, why even mention the dress code? So when your wedding invite says “black tie optional dress code”, opt for a more elevated and formal look.

For the men, this means a tuxedo, but can also mean a suit and tie. When going as a couple, make sure you both are equally elevated. If my husband is wearing a tuxedo, I’ll be sure to wear a more formal and likely a floor length dress. If he opts for a suit and tie, I will equally match that with a cocktail length dress, or slightly less formal full length dress. The point is, match as a couple.

Tips For Choosing the Right Outfit

You want to consider the season and venue. Fabric choice plays a big part in this. Choosing what fabric to wear should be determined by the season and formality of the event. For example, linen is light and breathable, and best reserved for summer months. My gorgeous maxi dress by Agua de Bendita shown above, is made from linen. This floor length dress is such a statement and works for summer black tie optional attire. Due to the linen fabric, this is best for warm weather occasions.

Silk chiffon is also a great choice for black tie optional events. It’s also light but more formal than linen. A silk or silk chiffon dress is a perfect choice for any season. Choose lighter colors and florals in spring and summer, and darker colors in the fall and winter months.

For winter I tend to favor velvet and heavier silk or satin fabrics. Especially when the weather is chilly. These heavier fabrics will keep you warming while also bringing in extra drama. This dress has drama and is similar to the one I’m wearing above. If you prefer something simpler, this black dress is so chic and elegant, and this one has the same lace detail as mine does. For a classic gown with optional straps, this one is perfect (I have it in a floral pattern from another season).

Black Tie Cocktail Dresses

Cocktail dresses are typically shorter in length, going to the knee, or slightly above. These are a little less formal than maxi dresses in my opinion but work equally well for a black tie optional event. The little black dress is always a great choice. Audrey Hepburn knew this. She made the look iconic with her pearls and chignon. Another reason cocktail dresses are a great choice is that you will have more options to wear them. You can dress them down for daytime events with flat shoes or sandals. I love wearing versatile dresses.

To add some formality to a cocktail dress, add some statement jewels. I love big earrings or even a giant cocktail ring! As for the shoes, I love gold heels to add some sparkle. Gold heels are a must for your closet. They are great for so many occasions. Think of them as a fun neutral. These are the shoes you will reach for again and again! They even dress up a pair of jeans nicely. I have this pair of gold heels and love them! You can take 15% off your order with code TARAFHM15.

Here are some black tie cocktail dress options for you to try:

Full Length Dresses For Black Tie Evens

My favorite option for a wedding is a midi or maxi length dress. I think these two cover all wedding dress codes- black tie or otherwise. They can be played up with statement jewelry and velvet shoes (15% off with TARAFHM15). They can also be quietly toned down with simple jewelry and nude shoes. It’s your safest wedding guest dress option!

Black Tie Optional Outfits and Accessories

Don’t forget about the accessories. You can elevate a dress even further by choosing embellished or metallic shoes, a statement bag, and jewelry. Match your accessories to the season. Wearing a silk scarf make s a great accessory tht is also functional. While open toe heels are fine to wear any time of the year, keep in mind the shoe and bag fabric. Raffia looks best in warmer months, while velvet and suede fabrics are best in cooler months.

Here are some shoe options below. Remember, you can wear flat shoes. If possible, try a pair that has an embellishment or texture like velvet to keep them looking dressy.

What to Wear Under Your Formal Dresses

There are so many different options for what to wear under a formal dress. For more form-fitting dresses, I love the sculpt bodysuits to smooth everything out. For backless dresses, these push-up adhesive bras are key, and for low-cut v-necks or halter dresses, these adhesives give you great coverage and a boost (plus you can take 10% off with code TARATHORSEN)!

More Black Tie Optional Attire:

Thanks for stopping by! I hope this helps you in deciding what to wear to a black tie optional event.