White tie

/wˈaɪt tˈaɪ/

White tie

a type of formal dress code for evening events, which includes a black tailcoat jacket, black pants, a white wing-collared shirt, a white bow tie, and black patent leather shoes

synonyms : dress suit

What is "white tie"?

White tie is the most formal dress code for evening events and is usually reserved for state dinners, formal balls, and similar occasions. For men, it consists of a black tailcoat with silk peak lapels, a starched white wing-collared shirt, and a white bow tie. The pants are black and have a single satin stripe running down the leg, and black patent leather shoes are worn. Women typically wear floor-length evening gowns, often with long gloves and statement jewelry. The white tie dress code is considered the most formal and elegant, and it is expected that guests adhere strictly to its guidelines.

bow tie worn as part of a man's formal evening dress

Examples

1. In America, however, the White Tie opportunities are fewer and far between generally limited to things like debutante balls.

2. While White Tie gatherings remain a tradition in the royal courts of Europe, American presidents have only held two White Tie dinners since 1989.

3. White Tie should only be worn if it's explicitly stated on the invitation.

4. While White Tie gatherings remain a tradition in the royal courts of Europe, American presidents have only held two White Tie dinners since 1989.