What to Wear to a Black-Tie Optional Wedding? Consider the following attire options for a black-tie/ black-tie optional wedding: Black-tie tuxedo: A black-tie ensemble designates a full tuxedo, which comprises a few key pieces. Most pertinent are the matching trousers and jacket, both in classic black, plus a white tuxedo shirt, which is different from a white button-down shirt as the tuxedo one has pleats and will have slits for cufflinks. You can wear a black bow tie, a cross tie, or an ascot. Black-tie dress: If you plan to wear a dress, select one in a nicer fabric and a darker hue. The dress should be floor-length, and you can dress it up with pearls, gloves, and high heels. Cocktail ensemble: It’s okay if you don’t want to dress so formally—that’s where the word “optional” in “black-tie optional” comes in. Consider instead wearing a three-piece suit with a tie or a more conservative cocktail dress, preferably in a darker shade, to blend in with the color palette.