Black Tie Dossier Part Two

Last week we laid the foundation of traditional black tie, so now let’s explore other options that keep popping up these days.

Summer Black Tie

A white dinner jacket (actually more cream) is a strong look, especially for warmer climate events. It's particularly great if you’re the one getting married. It coordinates with the bride and distinguishes you from your guests.

White is generally perceived as more formal, but it is starting to come around more and more as of late. 

I also like that there is a little danger in wearing white — don't spill the wine! It's why most Bond movies feature a white jacket at some point, right?

Other warm weather options would be the linen tux. Not as common but I’ve made some beautiful ones over the years, typically in blue. Most are a blend, with added silk to help with the wrinkling. Definitely an original look.

Red Carpet, Hollywood Black Tie, or Creative Black Tie

These will give you the license to “experiment” a little. A dinner jacket in an alternate color works, but so would your tuxedo. This is really going to be dictated as to how formal and how you wish to present yourself. 

For the Hollywood event, a good option would be a classic dinner jacket (think Leo in Gatsby). 

Try an alternate color velvet dinner jacket for the Red Carpet (think Burgundy velvet). Perhaps a tux sans tie for the Creative Black Tie. This being the most relaxed pretty much anything will work. 

In summary, we know there is a sliding scale of formality when it comes to evening wear. The occasion, the invitation, the venue, the tradition, all will all have a big impact on the direction you go. 

Play around with it and see what feels best and I’m always around if you have more questions.

I'll leave you with the main rule for all of this -- make an effort, always. 

DW

New Spring Collection can be viewedhere.