There aren’t many occasions that require a black-tie dress code – unless you frequent charity galas, red carpets, and formal weddings – so when the opportunity arises, you might be wondering what on earth you’re supposed to wear. But fret not, I’ve got you.
Not to be confused with a white-tie dress code, which is even more formal, or cocktail attire, which is less formal; at a black-tie event you’re expected to wear a floor-length gown, sharp tailoring, or midi-length cocktail dress. Black-tie might seem like an investment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank because when it comes to elegance, less is truly more.
Although you can have a bit more fun with cocktail attire since there aren’t restrictions on hemlines, modesty, or embellishments, black-tie dressing is way more straight-forward and a simple slip dress or sleek suit will have you feeling like a million bucks no matter what your budget looks like.
The only thing I would avoid wearing is statement prints – like florals, polka dots, or stripes – as, depending on how it’s styled, can come across a bit too casual for a formal, black-tie event. But, that doesn’t mean your only option is minimalism, as a bold colour-block look can make a statement while still fitting the dress code.
It's one thing to explain what black-tie dressing is, but a totally other thing to see it in action. So, I’ve found five, fail-safe outfit formulas that are black-tie approved and super easy to replicate with pieces from our favourite high street brands.
White dress and gold jewels
A white dress with chunky jewels is an elegant take on black-tie dressing. I love this Gucci gown worn by Daisy Edgar-Jones at the premiere of Twisters. It’s minimal without being boring because of the asymmetric neckline and cut-out in the back, which also makes it subtly sexy.
Wear yours with gold jewellery to add warmth to the ivory hue and complete the look with strappy sandals. Although I would steer clear of this look as a wedding guest, it makes a chic bridal option for a civil ceremony, welcome drinks, or reception.
Omnes Santorini Dress in Ivory
Mango Gold Heeled Sandals
Strapless gown and an up-do
A strapless gown is ideal for showing off a sparkling, statement necklace as demonstrated by Simone Ashley’s beautiful crimson-red Giorgio Armani look for the Bones and All premiere at Venice Film Festival.
Gold jewels can be overpowering with a red gown since it’s such a statement colour, so I’d suggest adorning your neckline with silver or white gold jewellery paired with diamond earrings and a cocktail ring. To really take your styling to the next level, wear your hair in an up-do to create the illusion of an lengthened silhouette.
Reformation Aivana Dress
H&M Heeled Strappy Sandals
Ralph Lauren Cubic Zirconia Necklace
LBD and statement earrings
It’s no surprise that an LBD (long black dress) is essential for your black-tie arsenal and your capsule wardrobe – and who better to show us how it’s done than the queen of the red carpet Zendaya?
Wearing a vintage, black slip dress from Mugler’s 1995 collection for the London premiere of Dune: Part Two, the A-lister embraced minimal elegance by accessorising with glistening, statement earrings and a cocktail ring. As for shoes, black heels are all you need while an embellished evening bag adds sparkle. If you fancy taking it up a notch, slick on a bold, red lip.
ASOS DESIGN Twist Shoulder Maxi Dress
Rixo Zenni Beaded Bag
A suit and pointed-toe pumps
When it comes to the black-tie dress code, a dress isn’t your only option. Hailey Bieber attended a private dinner party wearing this Saint Laurent suit and she couldn’t look cooler.
It’s a much more relaxed fit than YSL’s iconic Le Smoking tuxedo, which gives it a truly effortless feel while still being polished. Finish the look with pointed-toe pumps to add structure to the louche silhouette.
Tony Bianco Zaaki Slingback Pump
Anderson's Leather Belt
Slip dress and a silk scarf
Whether it’s designer or high-street, you can’t go wrong with a slip dress when attending a black-tie event. Take note from Anya Taylor-Joy’s archival Christian Dior dress at the 2025 Golden Globes.
Designed by John Galliano for Dior’s spring 1998 collection, Taylor-Joy finished the look with a matching shawl – a smart move in case the temperature drops – strappy sandals and a statement floral necklace. This outfit combo is ideal for attending a spring or summer wedding.
Nobody's Child Pink Slip Dress
Charles & Keith Leather Heeled Sandals
Reiss Heidi Scarf
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Kara Kia is the Ecommerce Editor for Women's Lifestyle at Hearst UK, leading Cosmopolitan UK's digital shopping strategy across fashion, beauty and lifestyle. With over eight years of experience as a journalist and editor, Kara specialises in skincare, makeup, haircare and helping women find their personal style — trying and testing every product she recommends. A trusted voice in fashion and beauty ecommerce, Kara's most-read guides include the best wedding dresses under £1000, the best affordable jewellery brands, the best Korean skincare products, and the best products for curly hair. She also covers major shopping events including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day for Cosmopolitan, Red and Prima. Kara previously held the role of contributing Fashion and Beauty Ecommerce Editor at ELLE UK and Harper's Bazaar UK; before joining Hearst, she was Fashion Content Editor at NET-A-PORTER's Porter Magazine, Associate Editor at PopSugar, and wrote for Refinery29 and LOVE Magazine. An experienced interviewer, she has spoken to Zendaya, Alicia Keys, Simone Biles and Tyla about life, work and style. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica and formerly based in Toronto, Kara now lives in London. Follow Kara on Instagram @kara.kia
