Black Tie Occasions

Black tie is a dress code for evening events and social functions. Worn only for events after 6 p.m., black tie is less formal than white tie but more formal than informal or business dress. Women's dress for black tie occasions has varied greatly through the years; traditionally it was dinner (ankle) or tea (below mid-calf) length sleeveless dress, often accompanied by a wrap or stole, gloves, and evening shoes. Today, cocktail (knee) length dresses are considered equally appropriate in most places.