White tie etiquette originated as the most formal of formal wear for men.
Originally white tie was the formal evening dress for all upper class gentlemen, until the arrival of the not so formal dinner suit.
White tie wear is now reserved for very special events as evening wear, and the traditional evening tailcoat is to be worn by men for such events.
If an event is white tie your invitation will indicate this.
A simple guide to white tie:
An evening tailcoat in black or midnight blue ( midnight blue is a very dark navy and looks blacker than black in artificial light), normally with peaked lapels faced with satin or grosgrain, matching trousers with high waistband, braces ( optional ), formal white Marcella waistcoat ( single or double breasted, usually backless), white shirt with cuff-links, white bow tie, black shoes ( most often patent leather).
A white handkerchief and white tasselled evening scarf may also be added if desired, adding an elegant finish to your white tie outfit.
At Tweedmans we sell high quality vintage & classic white tie outfits and accessories for gentlemen, do take a look!
Evening tailcoats, bow ties, handkerchiefs, braces, cuff-links and evening dress scarves. Why hire formal wear when you can buy for less?
