Black tie is a semi-formal Western dress code for evening events, originating in British and North American conventions for attire in the 19th century. In British English, the dress code is often referred to synecdochically by its principal element for men, the dinner suit or dinner jacket. In American English, the equivalent term tuxedo (or tux) is common. The dinner suit is a black, midnight blue or white two- or three-piece suit, distinguished by satin or grosgrain jacket lapels and similar stripes along the outseam of the trousers. It is worn with a white dress shirt with standing or turndown collar and link cuffs, a black bow tie, sometimes an evening waistcoat or a cummerbund, and black patent leather dress shoes or court pumps.

Black and White events are formal affairs that require you to be suitably dressed. Men should refrain from wearing light coloured suits . Wearing a blazer with accent colors. Whether you opt for a bow tie or regular tie, you must try at least to wear one. You should't wear casual clothing such as jeans, T-shirts, shorts, jumpers and trainers. It's also best to avoid suits that aren't black or White.

A black self-tie silk bow tiethat matches the lapel facing is most common;, however, a long black silk tie is becoming a popular alternative. Accessories may include a semi-formal homburg, bowler, or boater hat. In Britain, some individuals may rebel from the formal dress code by wearing coloured socks or a bow tie that is not black, such as red. For women, an evening gown or other fashionable evening attire may be worn.

The best option for shoes is a pair of black leather oxfords. An alternative would be a pair of black derby shoes. Men should avoid wearing brown shoes with a black suit to a black tie optional event because this pairing is informal.

Black-tie attire for women traditionally indicated a floor-length gown in a formal fabric, like silk charmeuse, chiffon, or Mikado, embellished with Alencon lace, embroidery or crystals.