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Updated Oct 19, 2020Black Tie Optional Wedding: What It Means and What to Wear
Wondering what to wear to a black tie optional wedding? We've got you covered. Check out some of our favorite selections and what to keep in mind when selecting your attire.
by Leigh Weingus
Updated May 20, 2020
Wedding dress codes can get confusing, and "black tie optional" is a particularly tricky one. How fancy is it, exactly? Do men need to wear a tux? Should women opt for a floor-length gown? What does black tie optional mean, exactly?
It's actually simpler than it sounds: For a black tie optional wedding, men can wear a tuxedo, but it's not a requirement. If they end up going tuxedo-less, though, they should wear a formal dark suit and tie instead. Women can go the long evening gown route, but a dressy suit or shorter cocktail dress is fine too.
Still feeling stumped? No worries—we've got you covered. Whether you're looking to rent a dress from a service like Rent The Runway or you want to find a dress that you can wear to every black tie optional wedding in the foreseeable future, here are 10 black tie optional getups we're loving.
Going to a winter wedding? This oxblood-colored dress will wow all the guests at your black tie optional wedding.
Nicole Miller oxblood pleated sweetheart dress, $60-$90, RentTheRunway.com
This dress may be on the shorter side, but its lace details make it a great choice for a black tie optional wedding.
Bardot Paris lace body-con dress, $77-$129, Nordstrom.com
If you're opting for full-on black tie, this classy, attention-grabbing gown is a great option.
Elliat rust popover gown, $70, RentTheRunway.com
This midi-length, cap-sleeve dress is perfect when you're looking for a pop of color and a fun print.
Reformation Gavin dress, $218, Reformation.com
This emerald floor-length gown is perfect for a black tie or black tie optional wedding.
Lulus v-neck trumpet gown, $84, Nordstrom.com
Yes, jumpsuits are definitely a thing at black tie optional weddings—and you can't go wrong this one.
La Petite Robe di Chara Boni Rebecca jumpsuit, $100-$100, RentTheRunway.com
Swishy fringe and a whole lot of shimmer. What more could you want in a dress?
Dress The Population Roxy fringe dress, $320, Nordstrom.com
Stun in florals in this top-notch black tie optional dress.
Shoshana Paladina high low dress, $75-$105, RentTheRunway.com
Wow your guests in velvet in this show-stopping dress option.
Dion Lee Grosgrain-trimmed velvet mini dress, $590, Netaporter.com
You can't go wrong with cobalt, as this stunning Allison Paris dress proves.
Allison Paris cobalt Marilyn gown, $80-$110, RentTheRunway.com
