When Do You Wear White Tie

White tie is worn at the most formal events imaginable — state dinners, royal ceremonies, opera galas, and certain high-society balls. The strictest and rarest dress code in men's formal wear, white tie is a step above black tie and will be specified explicitly on an invitation when required.

Events That Require White Tie

• State dinners and diplomatic functions
  
• Royal events and formal court occasions
  
• Certain opera galas and classical music performances
  
• High-society charity balls and formal dances
  
• White tie is almost never required at weddings

What White Tie Requires for Men

• A black tailcoat with matching formal trousers with silk braid trim
  
• A white marcella waistcoat
  
• A white bow tie
  
• A white wing-collar dress shirt with a stiff bib front
  
• White or gold cufflinks and matching dress shirt studs
  
• Black patent leather dress shoes

White Tie vs. Black Tie

The black tie dress code — a tuxedo and black bow tie — is far more common than white tie and covers most formal events. White tie is only worn when explicitly stated.

Common Mistakes

Avoid confusing white tie with black tie optional or creative black tie. Don't wear a white necktie with the white tie dress code, wear a white bow tie. 

Explore The Tie Bar's formal bow tie and tie collection. 

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