Dress for the occasion. But each occasion is different.

In 2019 alone, there were more than two million weddings in the United States. This was just a fraction of the formal events that happened that year. Most of them fell into two major categories: black tie vs white tie events. 

What do these events mean for men's formal wear? What are the different types of black tie events? What is white tie vs black tie attire? 

Answer these questions and you can rise to the occasion with stylish and respectable clothes. Here is your quick guide. 

Black Tie Events 

Black ties are the most common formal events. Some weddings and most award ceremonies and galas are black tie occasions. 

You must arrive with a formal look. You should wear a formal jacket, shirt, and pants. You should also wear a bow tie. 

You can complement your attire with cufflinks and pocket squares. This is not a requirement, but many men do it. 

Despite the name, you do not necessarily have to wear black. You can wear navy blue or dark brown or grey. But your tie should remain black. 

Most black tie events ask for men to shave their faces. If you want to keep your beard, you should keep it neat. You should also comb and maintain your hair. 

The key is that your attire is appropriate, stylish, and timeless. If you are ever confused, talk to others about what they are wearing. Google "white tie vs black tie event" to find resources on what to wear. 

Black Tie Optional 

Black tie optional events are slightly less formal than black tie events. Most weddings are black tie optional. 

You should wear formal clothing like a jacket and pants. But you can replace a bow tie with a regular tie, provided that you choose your tie properly. Depending on the occasion, you may be able to go without a tie. 

You should keep your clothes to common colors. Black and navy blue work best. Your shirt should be white or light blue. 

Most men do not wear cufflinks and other accessories to these events. If you are the groom or best man, you may do so to differentiate yourself. 

Creative Black Tie 

Creative black tie combines formality with personal style. Guests are expected to remain formal with their dress. But they should add something that indicates their style of fashion. 

You should wear a jacket, shirt, and pants. But if you want to wear red instead of black, you can. 

You can try out textures like velvet, and you can wear a vest. You can wear white or light blue socks, or you can put a bright pocket square in your pocket. 

You can go to a creative black tie event with some stubble or a new haircut. You can also select an exotic cologne to put on your neck. 

You should not go out of your way to attract attention. But do something that is a little different from what everyone else is doing. 

White Tie Events 

White tie events are the most formal events of all. All presidential events, diplomatic galas, and royal affairs are white tie gatherings. 

You should wear a tuxedo. A men's suit does not suffice, even if you have a very formal one. 

You should wear a tuxedo shirt and a bow tie. As the name of the event suggests, your bow tie should be white. 

You should wear studs and cufflinks. There are several optional accessories that you can bring.

A black top hat is very common among older attendees. You can wear a white flower on your label and bring white leather gloves. 

Tuxedos and Suits

You can wear a suit to any black tie event. For a creative black tie event, you may be able to get away with wearing a shirt and pants that don't match. But it is generally a good idea to wear a matching suit. 

You can wear a tuxedo to a normal black tie event. As mentioned previously, you must wear a tuxedo to a white tie gathering. 

There are differences between tuxedos and suits. A tuxedo has satin details. The pales, buttons, and stripes down the leg are all satin. 

The satin details do not have to be substantial. Most modern tuxedos have a satin lapel trim and a single stripe down the pant legs. But tuxedos must have these details, while most suits do not. 

Tuxedo shirts come with special collars. You can choose a turndown or winged collar depending on the style of your dress. You can wear any type of collared shirt with a suit. 

You should wear your tuxedo with black patent shoes. Loafers or slip-on shoes are unacceptable, though you can wear them with suits. 

If you are ever concerned about what to wear, err on the side of formality. Wear a tuxedo that you can remove layers from. It is better to look too formal than not formal enough, which will offend your host. 

Black Tie vs White Tie 

You need to know the distinctions between black tie vs white tie. Black tie events are formal gatherings like award ceremonies. You can wear a tuxedo or a full suit. 

Black tie optional events are less formal. You can wear a suit to these gatherings. Black tie creative events let you explore your style. 

White tie events are formal and require you to wear a tuxedo. Make sure you find one that includes satin details and a collared shirt. 

Turn to expert tailors for advice. Hansen's Clothing has a century of experience in crafting formal clothing. Browse our store today.