What Is White Tie? The Definition—And Origins—Of Society’s Most Formal Dress Code

A wedding invitation has just arrived. Heading to the bottom? A dress code you’ve never seen before: White tie attire.

For a few select high-level occasions, the white tie dress code is still used to indicate the highest level of formality. According to Emily Post, “A white tie dress code indicates that the guest is of high caliber, royalty or has a high social status.”

The rare dress code has some very specific rules that can feel more daunting than others. Here, we break down the white tie dress code.

What is white tie?

For women or those who want a more traditionally feminine look, white tie requires a long gown in an evening gown fabric such as silk, chiffon or velvet. Evening gloves are also welcome but not required.

For men or anyone who wants to embrace masculine style, white tie is specific but simple. According to 2010 GQ style In the guide, the look includes a black tuxedo and trousers paired with a white wing-collar shirt, a waistcoat (usually piqué) and a white bow tie. Importantly, white tie requires evening wear, no A morning coat “reaches the waist in the front and knee-length in the back, hangs more than a morning coat, is double-breasted, and is worn with a white tie in the evening,” Q suggestion. Emily Post also mentions matching trousers decorated with “American single stripes of satin or braid,” an outfit that should also be paired with white gloves, according to the American Etiquette Authority. In an 1885 article New York Second-rate, It was pointed out that men must hide their watches: “Those who cannot hide their watches perfectly must leave them at home.”

Victoria and David Beckham adhere to the white tie dress code as they attend the 2024 State Dinner at Buckingham Palace.

Photo: Getty Images

What is the difference between white tie and black tie?

Black tie leaves more room for interpretation by all parties. For men, black tie allows for a suit or tuxedo, while white tie requires a black tuxedo and white tie briefs, as mentioned above.

For women, it’s simpler. Typically, maxi skirts in evening gown fabric suit both dress codes. While in some cases, a dressy cocktail dress can be paired with black tie, white tie always requires a robe.

For more guidance on the black tie dress code, see our guide here.

White tie in the 2000s happy house, Set in Gilded Age New York.Photo: ©Sony Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection