Women's Black Tie Attire

Yes, a tuxedo is a perfect black tie outfit for women. Whether it’s a black tie wedding, gala, or other event, a formal women’s tux works very well, as it has all the elevated details that make a men’s tuxedo appropriate for these same events–think satin lapels, a luxurious, nicely draped fabric, fabric-covered buttons, and more. Women’s black tie attire typically requires either a full-length gown in a formal fabric or a female tuxedo as an alternative, dress shoes or heels, and formal accessories, if desired, like a clutch bag, earrings and more.

Accessories for black tie attire should be up to the same formality as the rest of the outfit. Steer clear of any specifically casual accessories like sneakers, overly relaxed or too-big handbags, or daytime jewelry. Since the full-length dress or women’s tuxedo that is necessary for black tie outfits is the primary focus of a black tie look, accessories can be minimal or dainty if preferred. Or, go for special-event statement jewelry and shoes if that’s more your style–just be sure not to overdo it, since simplicity is often considered more formal.

For a black tie tuxedo outfit for women, accessories including heels like stilettos, slingbacks, or pumps or dress shoes like patent leather loafers and a crisp button-up women’s dress shirt or a silky tank or shell top are classics.

Formal attire, also known as black tie optional attire, is one small notch down in formality from black tie attire. For formal or black tie optional dress codes, there’s a bit more flexibility in attire options–dark suit colors as well as tuxedos are permitted, as are both long and full-length dresses, and there is more leeway in the formality of the dress fabric. Women’s accessories for black tie and formal events should be quite similar, enhancing the suit, tuxedo, dress, or gown. Sleek heels, dress shoes, or loafers along with either dainty or statement jewelry and a small, formal handbag or clutch all work perfectly.