What to Wear to a Black-Tie Event—6 Rules If You Have No Idea Where to Start

Most of us love a good party, but receiving an invite with a fixed dress code can lead us to consider what even constitutes black-tie attire for women. This manner of outfit is the second most formal, making black-tie events as daunting as they are exciting.

The idea of swanning around town and buying an opulent new addition to your wardrobe is welcome. But no one wants to be the person who is over or underdressed. We all know black-tie means elegance and opulence, but it also leaves plenty of room for interpretation, especially if you've never done black-tie before.

If you're lucky enough to receive a black-tie invite, we're here to clear up once and for all what the dos and don'ts really are—so we called upon Browns's senior fashion buyer and style expert, Octavia Bradford. She thumbs through the most amazing high-end formalwear every day as a part of her job, so she knows better than anyone how to put together a black-tie look. Ahead, her six tips on nailing a black-tie attire for women.

6 Expert-Approved Tips for Nailing Black-Tie Attire and Deciphering the Dress Code

1. Follow Your Host's Lead

Style Notes: The term "black-tie" originates from the literal description of a male dress code of a blazer-style dinner jacket and a black-tie. So technically, there are no specifics for what women should wear, and rightly so. In order to scope out the vibe, Bradford suggests you "assess the location and think about the host and wider guest list."

"How are your fellow partygoers going to interpret the dress code? Are they a handbags-at-dawn kind of crew? This kind of intel is going to help you when you come to think about your interpretation of the black-tie directive," she adds. "If your host is making a big effort, you need to make one too."

Shop the Look:

2. If You Only Invest in One Thing, Make It Amazing Heels

Style Notes: Investing in a whole new outfit obviously isn't necessary. But if you've got a tried-and-tested look that you want to reinvent with one purchase, then Bradford says it's all about statement heels.

"My advice to anyone looking to elevate their outfit in one swift move is to treat yourself to a pair of devastatingly beautiful shoes that excite you and base your outfit around them. The boldest statements are often made in the details."

Shop the Look:

3. Remember, Dresses Are Optional

Style Notes: "The idea that black-tie means a dress is a common notion among partygoers, but this is an oversight," says Bradford.

"Jumpsuits and separates can work just as well as tried-and-tested ball gowns with the added bonus that you'll likely get tonnes of wear out of these pieces well beyond the black-tie event circuit," she adds.

Bradford's ideal black-tie outfit? "I love the idea of wearing a pair of high-waisted wide-leg trousers with a fabulous velvet kimono jacket. It's a look that is slightly unexpected and a little undone but also rooted in sophistication and elegance."

Shop the Look:

4. Don't Be Afraid of Colour

Style Notes: Just as black-tie doesn't have to equal a dress, it does not dictate wearing black. "Colour and print work too. Don't be afraid to go bold," says Bradford.

Though if you're not sure about pulling off a bold shade, then Bradford suggests letting your bright dress have its moment in the spotlight. "The accessories are there to support and elevate it, so it's wise to think along simpler lines."

Shop the Look:

5. Don't Forget About Outerwear

Style Notes: You've got to make an arrival, so don't forget about your coat or jacket. Don't see it as a winter warmer—embrace it as part of your outfit.

"Evening cover-ups are one of the most underrated pieces in a woman's wardrobe, but like a superhero's cape, they can have transformational powers," says Bradford. "Don't be afraid to consider an outerwear option that makes a statement. There's no need to visit the cloakroom when you're wearing a coat from Gucci."

Shop the Look:

6. Have Fun With Accessories

Style Notes: If there were ever a time to go all out, a black-tie event is it, so make sure you have fun with your accessories. This is a time to let your fashion fantasies run wild. Go big with your jewellery, whether you're dripping in diamonds or layering up on costume jewellery.

You can also add elegance and drama with opera gloves—take note from the experts and layer your jewellery on top for extra impact. However you style it, make sure you're having fun.

Shop the Look:

Shop More Black-Tie Dress Code Inspiration

What Does a Black-Tie Dress Code Mean?

The black-tie dress code is defined by, as the name suggests, formal attire based on the men's custom of wearing black ties. For women, however, this can vary as it's not often you'll see someone wear a tuxedo for this, despite the look being very chic and quite Parisian. (In a Saint Laurent way, of course). Traditionally, a black tie dress code is the most glamorous and luxurious of all, meaning you'll see floor-length gowns and sophisticated evening wear in all its iterations.

How Can I Predict How Formal an Event Will Be?

You can predict how formal will be by deciphering a few contextual clues on the invite. A night time soirée will encourage a more decadent dress than a daytime shindig, but the location of the event will also determine how put-together the event requires you to be. Location is a key code, too. If in doubt, take heed from Oscar Wilde's famous quote—"You can never be overdressed"—and don the nicest thing you own to save you from looking too casual.

What Shoes Should I Wear to a Black-Tie Event?

Heels are often advised, but if you're firmly a flat shoe person, look to wearing anything with a touch of glitz, like a sparkle or rhinestone embellishment or delicate embroidery. Trainers are an absolute "no" for this dress code.

Why Trust Us?

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.