Black tie

usgb
noun

A kind of formal dress code for social events that happens in the evening, where men wear a black bow tie with a suit or tuxedo, and women wear evening dresses.

Black tie events include balls and formal dinners.
Visual representation of "black tie" - A kind of formal dress code for social events that happens in the evening, where men wear a black bow tie with a suit or tuxedo, and women wear evening dresses.

Often appears as...

  • black tie event
  • black tie attire

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "black tie"
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Evening Specific

Used for events after 5 pm. Before this time, 'morning dress' might be more appropriate.

Illustration for Evening Specific
The invitation stated 'black tie', so the event likely starts in the evening.
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Invitation Clue

Invitations may hint at the formality by mentioning 'black tie', indicating high formal attire is expected.

Illustration for Invitation Clue
The gala's invite mentions 'black tie'—time to rent a tuxedo.
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Cultural Variation

Meaning can differ culturally. In some countries, a dark suit can substitute for a tuxedo.

Illustration for Cultural Variation
In his country, 'black tie' can mean a dark, formal suit instead of a full tuxedo.
Visual representation of the word "Black tie"

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