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On the average we can expect a couple of invitations for black tie events throughout the year. Not only do we get invites, but on some occasions we are rather oblige to attend, leaving us with no choice. Examples of black tie events are dinners, dates, parties, reunions, dances, weddings, etc. They are also quite common during holiday seasons.

Black tie event usually means formal function. The term refers to the dress code for the occasion. This dress code originated in England in the late 1800s but also became popular in America. As the name suggests, the event is usually themed black, particularly referring to men's attire. But depending on the theme or degree or formality of the occasion, the attire can have several variations, especially on the colors. Note again, that this is only acceptable on certain functions, for example, senior proms.

Fortunately, the attire itself looks quite simple but there are still rules to follow. You don't want to look like a complete mess on a social function.

What do you wear for black tie events?

Men's attire for black tie events is usually composed of a pair of suit - dinner jacket or tuxedo - and trousers, with white shirt underneath, cummerbund (waistcoat), bowtie, socks, and leather shoes.
Now on to the tuxedo; should you buy one or not? Well, if you anticipate attending a number of black tie events within a year, buying your own is a wise idea.

If you're buying, be on the lookout for tuxedo sales and get a good discount. Choose the wool type over the synthetic ones. Wool gives the shine and elegance of a suit. The quality of wool also varies, from super 100s to super 140s. Tuxedos made from the combination wool and polyester fabrics are cheaper still durable.

It may cost around $100 or less but consider it a sound investment if you're wearing tux more than 3 times a year. Anyway, you don't wear tuxedos everyday or even every other day for that matter. Just have it dry clean after the occasion and tucked it safely on your wardrobe until the next occasion. If you're in a budget, of course, you can always rent one, especially if you're going to attend just one or two formal events within a year.

The term "black tie" on black tie events doesn't literally mean black necktie. You wear a bow tie instead. There are other colors for bow tie of course, but black is for formal functions. For semi-formal events, you can wear necktie instead of a bow tie.

The white shirt underneath can be just plain simple, collared shirt with cuffs. Cummerbunds are worn instead of belt. Don't forget black socks and black leather shoes polished shine.

If you want to stand out, you can boost your formal attire by wearing a few accessories -cufflinks, wristwatch, ring, etc. For formal events, silver toned accessories are best. You only wear gold accessories if you're wearing shaded brown suit.