Invitations for black tie events always have a way of perking up people -either you take it as exciting or nerve-wracking. I guess because of the nature of the event - not your typical social gathering like fun parties. It is a formal occasion which requires particular etiquette. Certain guidelines too need to be observed, not just during the event, but also prior. And one of the first things you will have to address of course is your attire.
But if you notice, as soon as you read it out; "black tie", almost instantly ideas, or concerns most of the time, start coming into your mind. What will you wear?
You remember your last strut in the mall where you found a perfect dress. Should you buy a new one? You fear you've worn every evening dress you have in your closet and all your friends remembered so.
Or is my tuxedo still okay? No missing buttons? What if I don't fit in as I did last time? Will I still have time to have it fix or should I buy a new suit? Or maybe I should just rent one?
Even if you have gone to a couple of black ties before, and you have a wardrobe full of evening gowns and suits, it's amazing how one can be easily thrown into panic. You want to look great, of course. More than that, you want to look better than you did the last time. So now you were thinking, should you wear one of your "old", rarely used clothes or head straight to your favorite dress store?
Fortunately, black tie invitations are given out ahead of time - several days, weeks, or even months beforehand - to give attendees enough time to prepare.
Whatever your choice is, make sure you don't miss out the more important things.
For the ladies, when picking out an evening gown, make sure it's appropriate for the event. Do not be overdress and under dress. Gowns for evening dances and wedding parties may not be the same. Also do not overdo your hair and makeup. If you doubt that you're good at it, get a great makeover from a professional stylist instead. You don't want to look the odd one. Don't over accessorize. Avoid being too flashy with big accessories like bags or jewelries.
Consider other details too like the bust and neck line, more than the cut, design, and glitters. Foresee the possibilities that may affect your poise during the event proper - the venue might be too cold, or your heels are too high.
The gentlemen on the other hand, should always go for the classic suit - tuxedo, white dress shirt, lapel, bow tie, and leather shoes - all of high quality of course. White shirt underneath is the standard. No other dress color will fit with your bow tie. Men don't normally have too many accessories - wristwatch and a pair of cufflinks will do just fine. Make sure they're all color-coordinated.