Etiquette

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 or Black tie requested

Your host would prefer that you wear a tuxedo to these events, and most gentlemen in attendance will honor 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 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. Accessory options to express individuality include: silk scarf, top hat, or cane.

Cruise ship wear

There are typically many opportunities to wear a tuxedo during a cruise; in fact, most cruises offer or 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. Also, white or ivory dinner jackets make an excellent cruise option, especially for a cruise with two formal dinners.