Happy Friday, everyone! I (Chanel) have got a big wedding on the calendar next month, so this weekend is going to be dedicated to finding the perfect dress for the event (don’t you just love having a legitimate excuse to shop?) Of course, when wedding season rolls around, the issue of ‘attire’ always comes up in conversation. So today I’d like to open up the floor for what I think is a super important discussion: the definition of black tie. At the moment I’m leaning toward a floor-length dress, but I’m hesitant about being over-dressed. Then again, is a cocktail dress too casual? I’d love to hear all your thoughts on the matter… leave a comment telling me about your experiences with black tie, and I’ll keep it in mind when I head out to stores tomorrow!
*image from here
I’m fantasy shopping in my head for what I would wear to said event, and I’m picturing long sleeved knee-length lace would tick all the boxes! Not floor length, not too cocktail. Like this but longer! http://bit.ly/xKSNnl
Love that! Thanks, Cristina!
I have been to two black tie weddings. One of which I wore a floor length gown and the other, more recent, I wore a short very dressy “poofy” cocktail dress. (“poofy” is a technical term by the way)
I think knee to tea-length dresses are appropriate … a great way to prevent “over dressing”! I love everything at Anthro and BHLDN… they make it easy to look snazzy at a party!
I’ve been to several black tie weddings over the past few years (including NYE this year!), and while there has been a mix of long and short, most women seemed to wear gowns. Besides, if not at a black tie event, when can you were red carpet-worthy glamour!
My thoughts exactly, Joanna! I’m thinking I might just go for it!
Last black tie event I went to I wore a black satin cocktail dress with a glam necklace. I fit in just fine:) I would try to ask around to see what others are wearing if you know anyone else. I am sure you will find something fab!
Best of Luck!
Amy R.
I also agree with Joanna. And to really have style means when in doubt overdress;) Good Luck!
Hi Chanel! I have been thinking about this recently, as I was recently invited to a black tie event and have been thinking about outfits, too!
I keep in mind several different factors. You might want to think about the style of the couple getting married (are they edgy, or really traditional?), the venue, and even the location (New York would be more dressy that California).
The construction and fabric of the dress seem more important to me than the length; after all, what is more upscale: a long, cotton sundress, or a couture mini-dress? The quality is what will shine through.
My feeling is that black tie means wear your highest quality outfit, one that makes you feel the most fabulous! I hope you have a lot of fun at your event.
You make a great point, Jessica! I totally agree – a shorter dress can have a really really elegant feel to it, depending on material & cut. Thanks so much!
I would wear the dress above-no question. Have you ever seen anything so amazing?
I just finished reading the book “The Fashion File – Advice, Tips, and Inspiration from the Costume Designer of Mad Men”… the author had some perfect advice on how to dress black tie for a wedding. It’s an overall great read, but your question made me think of the specific chapter! xo
i wrote on twitter, but I say: with black-tie you can NEVER be over-dressed! Plus Chanel is so hot, and can rock unique styles. Couture!
Hi Chanel, I recently answered this question on my blog…
http://www.accidentalchic.com/2011/05/ask-stylist-black-tie-wedding-attire.html
Black tie is code for DRESS UP! Go with the floor length gown, xo
Thanks, Tiffani! Great post – I’m definitely planning on turning up the glam!
I love the unexpected pairing of a fitted tee with a long skirt (and great shoes) — like this http://pinterest.com/pin/103090278939771677/ or this: http://pinterest.com/pin/103090278939770872/.
Oh, pretty! I absolutely love that!