Do's and Don'ts of a Black Tie Affair

With December quickly approaching, there might be a number of social gatherings encircled on your calendar. While you might have easily secured a vintage get up for your staff dinner of say...20 people, the other event is a black tie affair and you might be busting your brain as to what to wear to this black tie event and still incorporate this vintage themed style of dress.

Black tie affair

Well let us first understand the meaning of the term Black Tie. Put simply, it is a fancy affair of which men are required to wear a tuxedo. This social function usually starts at 6 pm,  but it is no hard and fast rule, because some black tie weddings kick off at 3 in the afternoon. Now while the expression black tie applies mainly to men, a woman should also know what attire is considered appropriate under this code.

Full length gown

Do I have to wear a gown? 

 Usually floor length gowns are worn for black tie gatherings, but in 2015 there are some exceptions to the rules. If you don't own a gown and cannot afford to purchase one then it is quite acceptable to wear a cocktail dress. Keep in mind though that if you are going to use a cocktail dress, the colour should be rich and classy, so as not to appear casual. You can never go wrong in black, but if that fails, you can opt for  metallics, jewel tones and browns.

 Satin cocktail dress

On the other hand, lighter shades can be worn with  a full length gown as it is naturally dressy. Another option for a black tie affairs are chic separates; such as a silk blouse with a full satin skirt.

Vintage chic separates

If you choose to wear a cocktail dress, just ensure that the hemline is not overly short or the style isn’t too revealing. Also keep in mind that your cocktail dress must stand up along a room full of tuxedo wearing men and women in their dressy full length gowns.
 `

Can I wear Red?

Traditionally, red was thought to be overly sexy and attention grabbing, which clearly shows that that rule was established during a more conservative  time period. However in this era there are thousands of high fashioned red dresses that are perfect for formal gatherings. Just be sure to stay away from the RED  unflattering, tight, spandex dresses with the low cleavage dress or any colour for that matter! Needless to say that it is highly inappropriate. According to Style Caster, " Choose red gowns that are made from rich silky fabrics like chiffon or organza, as opposed to shiny satin or anything too stretchy, and always keep embellishments to a minimum."

Red satin gown

Can I Wear White to a Wedding?

There are differing views on this but to be safe and to avoid upsetting the bride, save your pretty white dress for an other occasion. It might appear to many that you are trying to steal the bride's attention.


                         

If it's not your day, ditch the white dress

There you have it dolls, I hope this blog was useful. Feel free to leave a comment in the box below.