Your Complete White-Tie Attire Guide for a Met Gala-Worthy Wedding Guest Look

If you've ever dreamt of attending the Met Gala or a royal ball, or of feeling like a Disney princess, here's hoping you get invited to a wedding that calls for white-tie attire. The dress code is the most formal on the wide spectrum of wedding attire—and also the rarest, especially in today's day and age.

Bridal stylist Cynthia Cook Smith has dressed brides, grooms and guests at every attire level—but she has a special place in her heart for this most formal of categories. "Formal dressing has always been a part of my life, in the most charming way," she says. "I'm reminded of my grandparents attending the Royal Ascot. My grandmother, who was raised on the principles of Emily Post, always had impeccable taste, both in her wardrobe and in how she carried herself. That sense of elegance and refinement has stayed with me." It's no surprise that Cook Smith looks to her grandparents, as white-tie is rooted in tradition. There are ways to modernize the look, though. "Today, I find great joy in helping my clients feel confident and beautiful, especially for those once-in-a-lifetime occasions like white-tie weddings," Cook Smith says. "It's about embracing elegance with a sense of joy—never stiff or overdone."

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So, what is white-tie, and what should you wear to a wedding that calls for it? Below, we break it down: We have outfit blueprints and suggestions, an important list of don'ts, where to shop and more. As with any event, the first step is to check the couple's wedding website. Especially if they're calling for attire as specific as white-tie, it's likely they'll have a dress code breakdown, set of instructions or mood boards to inspire your wardrobe. Consult the site, then dive in here—and get ready for your extra special Met moment.

Photo courtesy of Cynthia Cook Smith

In this article:

• What is White-Tie Attire?
• White-Tie Dress Code Etiquette
• Where to Buy White-Tie Attire
• White-Tie Outfit Ideas for Wedding Guests

What is White-Tie Attire?

White-tie attire means going all out. It means dressing more formally than you likely ever have before. Think: state dinners, royal balls, the Met Gala. "White-tie is the most formal dress code," Cook Smith says. "It's not just 'high-end,' it's the type of attire you'd see at state dinners or royal events."

Also known as full evening dress, white-tie has very specific stipulations: A white-tie tux has tails, for instance, and a white-tie gown is full length. We'll break it all down further below, but it's important to note that white-tie has nothing to do with the color white—especially when it comes to white-tie wedding attire (white-tie tuxedos are black, and white dresses are still off-limits for guests!).

Design: Ashley Detmering,Photos: Nardos, Gaurav Gupta, Badgley Mischka, Ralph Lauren, Marchesa Notte

White-Tie Dress Code Etiquette

White-tie is by far the most formal—and the most rarely seen—when it comes to wedding dress codes. So, what is white-tie attire? Here's the breakdown of what it looks like for both men and women.

White-Tie Attire for Men

Men's white-tie attire has an old-school feel to it: It's the type of full formal dress you might see on Victorian gentlemen or, more recently, heads of state or royalty. "It's polished, traditional and truly handsome when done correctly," Cook Smith says. It's also very particular and must include the following elements.

• Black tailcoat: "For men, white-tie means wearing a black tailcoat with real tails," Cook Smith says. "The 'tails' refer to the long back of the coat, which really completes the silhouette and ties the whole look together."
• Matching trousers: The outfit will have black trousers that match the tailcoat, often with a satin stripe down the outer length of each leg.
• White shirt: The shirt is always white. "But it's not just any white shirt," Cook Smith says. "It should have a stiff, winged collar and a pleated or pique front. It's one of those little details that makes the entire look feel impeccable."
• White vest and bow tie: A white vest beneath the tailcoat and a white bow tie complete the look. (Cummerbunds, while essential to a black-tie look, are not typically used for white-tie; in white-tie, the vest takes the place of a cummerbund.)

White-Tie Attire for Women

"For women, it's all about a full-length gown," Cook Smith says. "White-tie calls for something truly special: floor-sweeping silhouettes, luxurious fabrics like silk or satin, and just the right touch of drama." While there are fewer must-includes for women than for men when it comes to white-tie formal attire, it helps to have a starting point.

• Full-length gown: A white-tie dress is always floor-length and might even sweep the floor or have a slight train (though always be careful not to compete with the bride, even at a white-tie event).
• Accessories: Accessories make a look feel finished within any dress code parameters, but when it comes to white-tie attire for women, they can especially elevate your look. "Gloves or elegant jewels fit perfectly here," Cook Smith says. "The goal is to feel graceful and elevated, not like you're wearing a costume."
• Rich hues: "Rich jewel tones, soft neutrals and classic black are all fantastic choices," Cook Smith advises. "Deep emerald, navy or a soft champagne or dove gray can work beautifully in a white-tie setting. Metallics can be lovely if they're subtle and sophisticated, but loud patterns or bright colors are best avoided—they tend to feel a little out of place."

What Not to Wear to a White-Tie Event

Just as there are specific musts, there is an equally long list of what not to wear to a wedding. "Sticking to the classic formula is key," Cook Smith says. "This is not the time for improvisation." Here is a list of items that would be considered major faux pas if worn to a white-tie wedding.

• No mini dresses
• No midi dresses
• No tuxedo jackets without tails
• Nothing revealing
• Nothing too trendy
• No white dresses
• No over-the-top sparkles (some sparkle is okay, "but keep it elegant," Cook Smith says. "Think heirloom shimmer.")
• No casual shoes or bags

White-Tie vs. Black-Tie Attire

A white-tie dress code is rare these days; you're much more likely to see "black-tie attire" listed on an invitation. Both are formal, but "white-tie is the more formal of the two," Cook Smith says. "There's less room for interpretation with white-tie—gowns and tailcoats only."

• White-tie dress codes are stricter. "Black tie allows for a bit more flexibility (a chic cocktail gown or a velvet tux could work), but white-tie is more rigid," Cook Smith says.
• For men, white-tie requires a tailcoat, black-tie does not.
• For men, white-tie requires a vest, while black-tie calls for a cummerbund.
• For women, white-tie requires floor-length dresses, while black-tie dresses can be of varying lengths.

Where to Buy White-Tie Attire

It's important to note that white-tie attire can be quite expensive, in the hundreds if not thousands of dollars for a full white-tie look. Women can get away with a little more creativity, and there is a wider range of styles and gowns across budget levels, while men have a more rigid white-tie dress code. Consider dress and tuxedo rentals (and be sure to check The Knot wedding discount guide from time to time!). But remember: "It's not about being over the top," Cook Smith says. "It's about honoring the formality in a really refined way."

Neiman Marcus: Department stores are great go-tos for eveningwear, and we especially love Neiman Marcus. Look to brands like Dress the Population, Tadashi Shoji, Aidan Mattox and Badgley Mischka for white-tie appropriate wedding guest gowns.

Tuckernuck: The online retailer has its own collection and stocks pieces from top designers and labels, too—meaning its prices run the gamut. "I adore their eveningwear collection, especially pieces from Emilia Wickstead," Cook Smith says. Filter dresses by maxi length and occasion for curated white-tie outfit results.

Moda Operandi: If you're open to splurging, online retailer Moda Operandi is a must-visit. "Its selection always feels elevated and perfect for an event," Cook Smith says. "It's a great place to look if you want to shop in-the-know designers and the season's newest looks."

Rent the Runway: White-tie occasions are rare, so it would be understandable if you didn't want to go all out on spending. In that case, dress rentals are a great option. Check out labels like Sachin & Babi, one of our go-tos for black- and white-tie. Dresses retail for nearly $1,000—but can be rented for less than $150.

Favourbrook: Men's full dress is a rare and specific clothing category, so it can be tough to find at regular retailers. Look for ones that specialize in it, like Favourbrook. "They are known for excellent tailoring with a formal focus," Cook Smith says. (Psst, you can also find high-end accessories like top hats to complete the look.)

Ralph Lauren Purple Label: For men, this designer division is the epitome of luxury, exquisite tailoring and craftsmanship. "[They're known for] classic, beautifully crafted pieces," Cook Smith says. Be prepared to spend—but the pieces will last forever.

Men's Wearhouse: For white-tie attire on a tighter budget, look to Men's Wearhouse, where a tailcoat retails for less than $300 as opposed to more than $1,000 at more bespoke retailers, and rentals are an option.

White-Tie Outfit Ideas for Wedding Guests

Here, we've rounded up ideas for both men and women in the white-tie wedding attire category across a variety of price points, from budget-friendly to aspirational. Women have quite a bit more variety when it comes to what's allowed, but there are some stellar starting points here for both guys and girls.

A Floor-Sweeping Style

Photo: Anthropologie

The top factor to look for in a white-tie wedding guest dress? A floor-sweeping length. (This isn't the moment for midi or even cropped ankle-length dresses.) This For Love & Lemons dress nails the length and features a draped basque waist that's on-trend for both bridal and wedding guest looks this year.

A High-End Rental Dress

Photo: Rent the Runway

Fabric is key to elevating a dress, and Sachin & Babi's fabrics are top-tier. This strapless stunner sweeps the floor, as a white-tie formal dress should, and has a chic yet subtle print. Pair it with emerald jewelry and a shawl for the evening.

A Designer Dupe

Photo: Dress the Population

Cook Smith loves this Markarian gown (and we do too!)—it has just the right amount of shimmer and a rich jewel-tone base. To get the look for less, this burgundy Dress the Population style has similar elements but its own unique vibe with a V-neck and mermaid silhouette.

A Designer Gown

Photo: Moda Operandi

If you've ever felt the urge to go all-out, a white-tie wedding is the time to do it. "This gown is a statement piece but still feels very elegant," Cook Smith says. "It has an heirloom shimmer." The dress is inspired by cherry blossoms and requires very little additional styling; just pair it with a chic bag.

A Tux & Tails

Photo: Men's Wearhouse

There simply isn't a lot of wiggle room when it comes to white-tie clothing for men, though you may find varying price ranges based on quality, rental status and more. This tailed jacket from Men's Wearhouse comes at a reasonable price point; pair it with tuxedo pants and a white bow tie to complete the look.

A Custom Tailcoat

Photo: Hockerty

One way men can make their look more personal—if in the perfect tailoring alone—is by going bespoke. Online custom retailer Hockerty allows shoppers to select fabric and lining color, plus enter measurements for a completely made-to-measure piece that's guaranteed to last for a lifetime of special events.

A Pre-Tied Bow Tie

Photo: Brooks Brothers

Every men's white-tie ensemble requires a white bow tie, but make things easier on yourself by opting for one that comes pre-tied. This pique cotton one from Brooks Brothers has a subtle texture and is made in Italy.

A Long-Sleeve Dress

Photo: Mac Duggal

Mac Duggal is a go-to for mother-of-the-bride styles, many of which translate beautifully to white-tie attire as well. This piece has elegant long bishop sleeves (long sleeves always up the ante when it comes to formality) and a pop of embellishment at the neck, which means you can skip the necklace and bracelets. Pair this with a simple heeled sandal and blingy studs.

A Brocade Fabric

Photo: Net-a-Porter

Heavy or textured fabrics add an air of formality to a look. For example, in this Dries Van Noten gown—one of Cook Smith's top picks—a slip-dress silhouette gets elevated to white-tie formalwear through a chic brocade fabrication. "This is great for a modern take on white-tie dressing," Cook Smith says.

A Ballgown Skirt

Photo: Sachin & Babi

Sachin & Babi has a whole category for ballgowns—meaning the skirt has a noticeable dramatic volume. This one has floral detailing and comes in a soft dove gray hue that Cook Smith loves for white-tie (especially if the usual jewel tones aren't your vibe). It's a pricey choice, but check back regularly as the label often puts styles on sale.

A Military Ball Dress

Photo: Azazie

For an affordable take on formalwear, check out Azazie, where you can filter by not just mother-of and bridesmaids but occasions like "military ball" (an event that often calls for the most formal dress). That's where you'll find this floor-length sky-blue stunner with a peplum accent and textured organza jacquard fabric.

An Elevated Black Dress

Photo: Adrianna Papell

Black is always an appropriate and safe choice for formal white-tie attire, but look for unique detailing or silhouettes to make your look stand out. We love this long-sleeved tuxedo-inspired gown, a unique and elevated take on tuxedos for women; accessorize it with a blingy diamond necklace. Use our exclusive code THEKNOT25 for $25 off any purchase of $100.