Simply put, black-tie attire is typically reserved for formal evening events. Guests are required to choose floor-length gowns and suits or tuxedos when attending this type of celebration, as this is the most formal dress code after white-tie attire. However, black tie is NOT required for this event, it is only encouraged. So, guests may wear suits or dress clothing and or dresses/skirts that are less formal, but not casual.

Suggestions: Evening gowns and elegant suits are the standard fare for black tie and should be the first consideration for women shopping for this type of dress code. More specifically, guests can go all out with a trumpet or ball gown silhouette, formal cocktail dresses, or keep it simple with a dressy sheath made from rich fabrics and fine details. As for colors, all colors are fair game except for white, off-white, or anything else that's even close to white. Apart from that, the only hue you might want to avoid is the color the bride has chosen for her bridesmaid dresses. The bridesmaids will be wearing a sage green color, so try to avoid sage if possible. Additionally, people often think black is a no-go for weddings, but that's simply not the case.

Suggestions: A formal dinner suit is also acceptable for this type of celebration. Dapper smoking jackets in velvet or textured materials can add flair to the attire, but a traditional silk-lapel dinner jacket is the traditional choice. A nice suit or tuxedo of any kind is welcomed. Pants should be well-tailored with a fitted silhouette that doesn't appear too clingy, and your pants should match your dinner jacket unless you're intentionally opting for a contrasting look. Lastly, a crisp white dress shirt is also necessary. Similar to women's attire, men should stay away from looks that might draw attention away from the guests of honor. Loud prints and boldly colored suits should be avoided, with black being the safest color choice for this dress code. If you prefer to stand out, a deep, inky navy or midnight blue makes for a handsome choice. The groomsmen will be donning black tuxedos, and the groom will be wearing Emerald Green (avoid wearing the same color as the groom). As for shoes, they should reflect the formality of the attire. Loafers, derbies, and monk straps can all fit the bill depending on the suiting, but be discerning of styles with laces. Again, black-tie is optional, so less formal wear is also appropriate.