Black Tie Attire for Women: What to Wear to a Black Tie Event or Gala
Black tie is the most formal dress code most of us will ever see on an invitation. Here is what it requires for women, how it differs from black tie optional and white tie, and what to wear to a gala so you look right in every photo.
What is black tie attire for women?
Black tie means an evening gown. The standard is a floor-length dress in a luxurious fabric, worn with heels, fine jewelry and a small evening bag. A very elegant, structured ankle-length dress can work at some events, but if you are unsure, go long.
What to wear to a black tie event
- Length: floor-length or a formal ankle-length gown.
- Fabric: silk, satin, crepe, velvet, tulle, beading or feather details.
- Silhouette: column, mermaid, off-shoulder, one-shoulder or a draped gown with a cape.
- Shoes: heels or elegant embellished sandals.
- Accessories: a clutch, statement earrings and a wrap for the evening.
Shop our gala and black tie dresses, from off-shoulder gowns with feather capes to long draped dresses by Acuarela World and Reinaldo Lourenço.
Black tie vs black tie optional vs white tie
- White tie: the most formal of all. Full-length ball gowns only.
- Black tie: floor-length evening gowns.
- Black tie optional: a gown is ideal, an elegant midi or cocktail dress is acceptable.
- Cocktail: knee to midi length. See our cocktail attire guide.
What to wear to a gala
Most galas are black tie. This is the event to wear the dramatic piece: a cape sleeve, a sculpted bodice, a bold color or feathers. Galas are heavily photographed, so choose a fabric with some structure that holds its shape, and a color that stands out from the black of the crowd. Fuchsia, burgundy, emerald and serene blue photograph beautifully.
Black tie weddings
Follow the same rules as any black tie event, avoiding white, ivory and anything that could read as bridal. A long gown in a jewel tone or a soft pastel is ideal. Browse wedding guest dresses and maxi dresses.
Finishing touches
Keep the bag small: a frame clutch or a beaded evening bag from NANNACAY. Choose one jewelry focal point, earrings or a necklace, not both. Statement earrings from VAZA are made for exactly this.
What is black tie attire for women?
Black tie attire for women is a floor-length evening gown in a luxurious fabric such as silk, satin, crepe or velvet, worn with heels, fine jewelry and a small evening bag.
Can you wear a short dress to a black tie event?
A short dress is generally not appropriate for black tie. If the invitation says black tie optional, an elegant midi or cocktail dress is acceptable, but a long gown is always the safest choice.
What should I wear to a gala?
Most galas are black tie, so wear a floor-length gown. A gala is the right occasion for statement details like a cape, feathers, a sculpted bodice or a bold color.
What is the difference between black tie and black tie optional?
Black tie requires a floor-length gown. Black tie optional means a gown is preferred, but an elegant cocktail or midi dress is also acceptable.