Savvi Formalwear
Black Tie Group Services Quinceanera College / Fraternity Etiquette Glossary


There are many complexities to choosing the right look for a formal event. Normally, the event invitation will provide direction about the desired type of attire; the following guidelines cove
the most common types.


Black Tie

For a black tie event, tuxedos are mandatory. Black tie is defined as a
tuxedo and proper accessories. This doesn’t necessarily limit you to
wearing the traditional black bow tie – accessories enable a gentleman
to show his personality. (Just make sure you don’t out-shine the guest
of honor!)


Black Tie Preferred
Black Tie Requested


Your host would prefer that you wear a tuxedo to these events, and most gentlemen in attendance will honor with this request to help celebrate a
very special occasion. In addition to a black tuxedo, white/ivory dinner
jackets are appropriate during warmer weather.

Black Tie Invited
Black Tie Optional

While tuxedos are not mandatory for these events, you will likely see more
of them than suits. A good rule of thumb is that you can never be overdressed … especially if your partner is wearing an evening gown.

White Tie

This is a very formal event, and the guidelines are probably very strict: black tails with black trousers, white pique wing collar shirt, white pique vest and bow tie, pearl jewelry, formal shoes, and white gloves. Consider these accessory options to express individuality: silk scarf, top hat, or cane.

Cruise Ship Formalwear

There are typically many opportunities to wear a tuxedo during a cruise; in fact, most cruises offer/require at least one night of formal attire (even if a tuxedo is not required, they are normally highly recommended). Appropriate tuxedos for cruises would be any black tuxedo, excluding tails. White or ivory dinner jackets also make an excellent cruise option, especially for a cruise with two formal dinners.