Dress Code Decoded: What to Wear and When
Picture this: you've just been invited to a high-profile event — maybe a gala, a premiere, or an awards night — and at the bottom of the invitation, you see "Dress code: Black Tie." Not sure what that means? You're not alone. Getting it wrong can cost you your reputation (and some serious style points).
A dress code isn't just about fashion — it's about respect. Ignoring it can come off as careless or even rude, especially at formal events. Dressing appropriately shows you belong, that you understand the setting, and that you care. At Mazonni, we make sure you're ready to walk into any room with confidence.
Here’s your breakdown of the most common dress codes and how to master each look:
White Tie (WT, Formal, Full Dress)
This is the highest level of formality — think state dinners, embassies, royal events, or the Nobel Prize ceremony.
For men:
• Black or midnight blue tailcoat
• White dress shirt
• White waistcoat (ivory or cream shades allowed)
• Trousers with silk side stripes (no belt; silk suspenders only)
• White bow tie (same fabric as the vest)
• Black patent leather shoes
• Optional: white gloves, silk scarf, top hat, cufflinks, pocket watch
For women:
• Full-length formal gown
• Gloves that reach the dress sleeve
• Jewelry and high heels
• Elegant shawls or boleros
Don’t: Wear dark vests or wristwatches. A pocket watch is your friend here.
Black Tie (BT, Tuxedo)
The go-to formal look for evening weddings, galas, award nights, and VIP events.
For men:
• Black tuxedo and matching trousers
• Black waistcoat (for single-button tuxedos)
• White silk or cotton dress shirt with studs and cufflinks
• Black matte bow tie
• Black leather lace-up shoes
• Optional: white pocket square, classic watch, silk scarf, boutonnière
Variations:
• Semi-formal: Begins after 8 PM; nearly identical to classic Black Tie.
• Black Tie Invited: More flexible. A dark suit and tie can replace the tux.
• Creative Black Tie: Great for parties and art events. Think black shirts, colorful vests, even no tie at all.
Cocktail Attire
Perfect for receptions, premieres, family events, gallery openings.
For men:
• Dark suit (but not black) — navy or charcoal works best
• Dress trousers
• White or black long-sleeve shirt
• No vest
• Brown or black dress shoes
Accessories:
• Neutral tie (geometric prints allowed)
• Bold bow tie (under 30s can have fun with this)
• Belt matching the shoe color, plain buckle
• Optional: cufflinks, metal or leather-strap watch
Business Dress Code
Two types: Business Best and Business Casual
Business Best (BB):
• Perfect for formal meetings, presentations, and conferences
• Tailored dark suit (custom if possible)
• White shirt
• Subtle tie
• Black socks
• Polished leather shoes
• Cufflinks
Business Casual:
• Everyday office wear
• Blazers in wool, tweed, or velvet
• Patterned shirts
• Chinos or cotton trousers
• Moccasins, loafers, or dress shoes
• Optional: sweater or cardigan under blazer
After Five & After 5 Casual (A5C)
This is your go-to for early evening hangouts (5–8 PM), networking mixers, and relaxed corporate socials.
After Five:
• Suit, dress shoes, and a shirt (open collar is okay)
• Club jacket + dark jeans or velvet pants allowed
After 5 Casual:
• Slim-fit blazer or smart casual suit
• Jeans with a cashmere sweater
• Chinos + patterned shirt combo
• Shoes: moccasins or dress shoes
No matter the dress code, Mazonni has your back. From tuxedos to trousers, shirts to cufflinks, we’ll help you build a look that respects the rules and turns heads. Be the best-dressed guest at every event.
