What Do People Often Wear To Formal Events?
Dressing for a formal event requires a keen understanding of dress codes, from the regal elegance of white tie to the refined sophistication of business formal. The right outfit depends on the occasion, whether it's a black-tie gala, a business dinner, or a wedding. This guide explores the nuances of formalwear, breaking down the must-have elements for both men and women, from tuxedos and evening gowns to the finer details like cufflinks, patent leather shoes, and statement jewelry.
If you're in search of the perfect floor-length dress or a timeless formal dress, you can explore our carefully curated formal dress collection to find a piece that suits your occasion.
Decoding Formal Attire: Understanding Dress Codes
The term formal attire can mean different things depending on the event. Understanding these dress codes ensures you show up dressed appropriately while exuding confidence and sophistication.
1. White Tie: The Pinnacle of Formalwear
The most prestigious dress code, white tie events call for an uncompromising level of elegance. Men are expected to wear a tailcoat, waistcoat, a white bow tie, and patent leather shoes. Women should opt for floor-length dresses, ideally in luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet, paired with opera gloves and classic statement jewelry.
Typical White Tie Occasions:
- State banquets
- Royal balls
- High-profile charity galas
“White tie is not just an outfit—it’s a statement of timeless sophistication.”
2. Black Tie: The Classic Standard
A step below white tie, black tie remains an elite dress code commonly seen at galas, weddings, and red-carpet events.
For men, a tuxedo with a shawl lapel or peaked lapel, a black bow tie, and Oxford shoes are essential. A double-breasted jacket can add a refined touch, while a cummerbund completes the traditional look.
For women, a ball gown or elegant evening gown is the go-to choice. Accessories such as a formal clutch, lapel pin, and brooch can elevate the look without overpowering it.
If you're searching for the perfect attire for a black-tie event, explore our evening dress collection, featuring sophisticated styles to make a lasting impression.
3. Cocktail Attire: Elegance with a Modern Twist
A notch below black tie, cocktail attire is a flexible yet polished dress code.
For men, this typically includes a dark suit, a formal shirt, and dress shoes—a monk strap shoe or patent leather belt can add a contemporary touch.
For women, a knee-length cocktail dress or a sophisticated formal dress works best, accessorized with a corsage or minimalist statement jewelry.
Pro Tip: A three-piece suit or a velvet tuxedo can make a bold fashion statement while still adhering to cocktail attire expectations.
4. Business Formal: The Power of Professional Elegance
When attending corporate events, conferences, or business dinners, business formal is the expected dress code.
Men should wear a tailored dark suit, a pleated dress shirt, and Oxford shoes. Subtle accessories like a cravat or ascot tie can provide a distinguished touch without straying into over-the-top territory.
Women can opt for a chic formal dress, a blazer, or a structured suit with refined accessories. Need an outfit for a corporate dinner? Browse our dresses collection for styles that balance professionalism with sophistication.
5. Dressing for the Season: Fabrics and Styles That Matter
Just as the event dictates your attire, so does the season. Choosing the right fabric ensures both style and comfort, keeping you appropriately dressed no matter the time of year.
Spring & Summer: Light and Breathable Elegance
Warmer months call for lighter materials that allow for breathability without compromising sophistication.
- Men: A linen or cotton suit in lighter shades like beige, soft gray, or pastel blue is an excellent option. Loafers (without socks for a more relaxed setting) are becoming a trendy alternative to dress shoes for daytime events.
- Women: Flowing floor-length dresses or elegant cocktail attire in airy fabrics like chiffon, silk, or organza are ideal. Complement your look with delicate statement jewelry and a refined formal clutch.
Pro Tip: For summer weddings or garden parties, swap traditional black for softer tones like cream, blush, or navy.
Fall & Winter: Rich Textures and Deep Tones
Colder seasons call for more structured silhouettes and heavier fabrics.
- Men: A tweed suit or a velvet tuxedo in deep hues like charcoal, emerald green, or burgundy provides warmth while exuding elegance. A double-breasted jacket adds a touch of vintage refinement.
- Women: Opt for a ball gown in luxurious fabrics like satin or velvet. Opera gloves and a dramatic brooch elevate the look for more formal occasions.
Pro Tip: In winter, layering is key—consider a wool overcoat that complements your ensemble rather than overpowering it.
Need a stunning formal look for a winter gala? Check out our handpicked selection of formal dresses to find the perfect match.
6. Dress Code Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts of Formal Dressing
Even with the perfect outfit, understanding dress code etiquette ensures you make a lasting impression for all the right reasons.
✅ Do’s:
- Follow the invitation guidelines – If the invite specifies black tie, a dark suit won’t suffice; wear a tuxedo.
- Ensure a perfect fit – Whether it’s a three-piece suit or a floor-length dress, a well-tailored fit makes all the difference.
- Pay attention to footwear – Oxford shoes, patent leather shoes, or polished loafers elevate the look. Avoid sneakers or casual slip-ons.
❌ Don’ts:
- Avoid jeans, no matter the event – Even for a semi-formal occasion, chinos are a much better alternative.
- Don’t over-accessorize – A lapel pin or cufflinks add a refined touch, but too many bold accessories can overwhelm the outfit.
- Never assume "formal" means the same for every event – A morning dress for a royal function differs from a prom suit or business dinner attire.
“It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Confidence comes from knowing you’ve made the right style choice.”
7. Elevating Your Look with the Right Accessories
Accessories complete the look, but it’s important to choose wisely. Whether it’s a cravat, cummerbund, or pocket square, the right pieces should enhance, not overpower, your outfit.
For Men:
- Cufflinks – A subtle way to add elegance. Choose silver, gold, or pearl for formal events.
- Ascot tie or cravat – A stylish alternative for more relaxed formal settings.
- Patent leather belt – Matches the shine of patent leather shoes for a seamless look.
For Women:
- Corsage – A traditional yet stylish floral accessory for weddings and dances.
- Statement jewelry – Balance is key; bold earrings pair well with minimalist dresses, while intricate gowns call for delicate accessories.
- Formal clutch – A sleek, structured clutch bag ties the look together effortlessly.
Looking for an effortlessly elegant dress to complement your accessories? Browse our evening dress collection for sophisticated styles.
8. The Power of Color: Choosing the Right Shade for the Occasion
Color plays a significant role in formalwear—it sets the tone for your presence and affects how others perceive you. Whether you're dressing for a black-tie gala, a corporate dinner, or a formal wedding, choosing the right shade can make a lasting impact.
Classic Colors for Formalwear
- Black – The epitome of timeless elegance. A black tuxedo or evening gown exudes sophistication and is the standard for black-tie events.
- Navy – A versatile alternative to black, perfect for business formal occasions and corporate events. A navy three-piece suit pairs beautifully with a pleated dress shirt and monk strap shoes.
- Charcoal Gray – A refined choice for men’s suits, ideal for business formal settings where black might be too overpowering.
- White/Cream – Reserved for white-tie events or summer galas. A white tailcoat with a waistcoat is a bold yet distinguished choice.
- Burgundy & Emerald Green – Best suited for fall and winter events. These deep, rich hues add warmth and luxury to velvet tuxedos and formal dresses.
Pro Tip: If you're attending a wedding, avoid wearing all-white or all-black unless specified. White is traditionally reserved for the bride, while black may be too somber unless styled appropriately.
Looking for a striking yet elegant formal dress? Browse our formal dress collection to find the perfect shade for your next event.
9. The Perfect Fit: Why Tailoring Matters in Formalwear
Even the most luxurious tuxedo or ball gown won’t look polished if it doesn’t fit properly. Proper tailoring transforms an outfit, making it appear intentional and sophisticated rather than off-the-rack.
Key Tailoring Considerations:
✔ Jacket Shoulders – The seam should align perfectly with your shoulders; anything too tight or too loose ruins the silhouette.
✔ Trousers Length – The break of your pants (where they meet your shoes) should be just right—not too long, not too short. Patent leather shoes should be fully visible.
✔ Dress Length – For black-tie events, a floor-length dress or ball gown is expected. A dress that’s too short can look out of place.
✔ Shirt Fit – Whether it’s a formal shirt or a pleated dress shirt, ensure it’s snug at the shoulders and chest without restricting movement.
"A well-tailored suit is to women what lingerie is to men." – Tom Ford
10. Final Styling Tips to Stand Out for All the Right Reasons
Dressing for a formal event isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about elevating your look with confidence and attention to detail. Here are a few expert tips to ensure you’re the best-dressed guest:
For Men:
✔ Pair a double-breasted jacket with a cravat for an old-world charm.
✔ Opt for Oxford shoes or monk strap shoes for sleek, sophisticated footwear.
✔ A cummerbund adds polish to a tuxedo, but ensure it matches your waistcoat.
For Women:
✔ A formal clutch should be large enough for essentials but small enough to remain elegant.
✔ Opera gloves instantly elevate a white-tie look, especially when paired with a brooch or lapel pin.
✔ If wearing statement jewelry, balance it with a simpler dress to keep the look refined.
"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." – Rachel Zoe
Looking for an exquisite dress for your next gala? Explore our evening dress collection to find a breathtaking piece that makes an impact.
Conclusion: Dress with Intention, Walk with Confidence
From the grandeur of white-tie to the contemporary elegance of cocktail attire, formalwear is about more than just looking good—it’s about respecting the event, embracing tradition, and exuding confidence.
✔ Choose the right dress code for the occasion.
✔ Select the best fabric and color to complement the season.
✔ Ensure a flawless fit with proper tailoring.
✔ Accessorize wisely, keeping dress code etiquette in mind.
By mastering these principles, you'll never have to wonder, "What should I wear to a formal event?" again.
Ready to find your perfect outfit? Explore our curated selection of formal dresses and make your next event unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about dressing for formal events that we haven’t covered in the main article.
1. Can I wear a suit instead of a tuxedo to a black-tie event?
A black-tie dress code traditionally requires a tuxedo with a black bow tie, a pleated dress shirt, and patent leather shoes. However, if the event is more relaxed or labeled as black-tie optional, a well-tailored dark suit with a formal waistcoat and Oxford shoes may be acceptable.
2. What is the difference between a tuxedo and a suit?
A tuxedo is more formal than a suit, distinguished by satin lapels, a satin stripe on the trousers, and details like a cummerbund or bow tie. A standard suit, on the other hand, lacks these satin elements and is typically worn with a necktie instead of a bow tie.
Pro Tip: A velvet tuxedo is a stylish alternative for winter formal events.
3. What should I wear to a semi-formal event?
For men, a chinos and blazer combination or a three-piece suit in lighter colors can work. Women can opt for an elegant cocktail dress, a stylish jumpsuit, or a knee-length formal dress paired with statement jewelry.
If you're unsure, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed!
4. Can I wear open-toed shoes to a formal event?
It depends on the formality of the event. At a white-tie or black-tie event, closed-toe dress shoes are the standard for both men and women. However, for cocktail attire or business formal, elegant strappy heels or peep-toe shoes are acceptable.
Pro Tip: Avoid casual sandals or anything that exposes too much of the foot in ultra-formal settings.
5. What is the best fabric for formalwear in hot weather?
For warmer climates, opt for breathable fabrics such as:
- Linen or cotton suits (perfect for summer weddings and outdoor events)
- Lightweight chiffon or silk gowns (ideal for elegant but airy movement)
Darker fabrics absorb heat, so choose lighter shades like ivory, pastel, or beige for daytime events.
6. Can I wear a patterned suit to a formal event?
Subtle patterns, such as a tweed suit or a fine herringbone design, are acceptable for less rigid formal settings like business formal or semi-formal weddings. However, for black tie, stick to solid colors with a polished finish.
A double-breasted jacket in a deep hue can add visual interest without breaking formality rules.
7. How do I accessorize for a white-tie event?
White-tie events call for the highest level of sophistication. Key accessories include:
✔ For men: Opera gloves, waistcoat, patent leather shoes, and a classic pocket watch.
✔ For women: Opera-length gloves, a brooch, statement earrings, and a formal clutch.
Remember: Elegance is about subtlety, so avoid overly flashy or trendy accessories.
8. Is a bow tie required for all formal events?
No, a bow tie is only required for black tie and white tie events. For business formal or cocktail attire, a standard tie, ascot tie, or cravat can be a stylish alternative.
Pro Tip: A lapel pin or a pocket square can add a refined touch to your ensemble.
9. What colors should I avoid at formal events?
While most formal events allow flexibility in color choice, certain colors should be avoided:
- White (unless you’re the bride at a wedding)
- Neon or overly bright colors (too casual and distracting)
- All-black outfits (unless it’s a black-tie event, as it can be seen as funereal)
If unsure, opt for classic hues like navy, burgundy, charcoal, or deep emerald green.
10. Can I wear a blazer instead of a full suit to a formal event?
A blazer is acceptable for smart casual or semi-formal events but is too informal for black-tie or business formal occasions. If the event requires true formal attire, opt for a dark suit or a three-piece suit instead.
Looking for a stylish formal dress instead? Browse our evening dress collection for the perfect look!
