A gala is a pretty chic event, so you don't just pull out any old wardrobe. If you receive an invitation with "white tie" or "cravate blanche" (French for white bow tie), you know you're going to one of the most stylish parties around. Because it's such a formal occasion, there are a few rules, but don't worry, we'll explain them for you. Incidentally, the name "white tie" comes from the white bow tie men are expected to wear. And yes, gentlemen, you MUST wear a tailcoat if the invitation says white tie.
Buying a ready-made suit is easy, but check carefully what exactly it comes with, otherwise you'll look like a fool at that party! A tailcoat consists of the following components:
Black tailcoatThis is a long coat, the back reaching the backs of your knees, the front pointed. The collar (lapel) is usually shiny, made of satin. And those buttons? They're more for show, so don't button them up, okay?
White tailcoat
It's a kind of waistcoat, but open in the back with straps that you can tighten. Usually made of piqué (textured cotton).
White tailcoat shirt
A white piqué shirt with a special collar, a parricide collar. Those points are pointed up so that your white bow tie is clearly visible.
White bow tie
You are supposed to tie it yourself!
Black tailcoat trousers
Neat black trousers with a shiny stripe (piping) on the sides.
Black patent leather shoes
These are really the only shoes that belong with a suit like this. So no sneakers or anything like that!
- Put the bow around the collar, making one side slightly longer than the other (about 2-3 cm).
- Cross the long side over the short side, just under the chin.
- Create the first loop by pulling the long side up and through the loop under the chin (don't pull tight!).
- Then create the first wing by folding the short side horizontally into a loop. Hold it there.
- Then place the long, hanging side horizontally over the center of the first loop.
- Create the second wing by pushing the middle of the long side through the loop under the chin from behind.
- Gently pull on both loops and ends to tighten and shape the knot.
This depends on the event. If you're primarily outdoors, gloves are strongly recommended. If the party is indoors, gloves aren't required, but they are encouraged as a stylish addition to your tailcoat. NOTE: Etiquette dictates that you remove your gloves when shaking hands or during dinner!
- White suspenders. If your pants fall down, don't reach for a belt!
- Cufflinks. These give your shirt a stylish upgrade. Choose cufflinks that don't stand out too much, such as white or silver.
- White pocket square. This is a neat handkerchief that you tuck into the breast pocket of your tailcoat for the finishing touch.
White tie events are quite chic, so there are a few things you need to pay attention to so as not to stand out.
Here are a few important points:
Make sure your clothes look neat
Super obvious, but still important. Think ironed, without stains or tears, just completely fresh.
Color palette
The idea is to stick to white, gray and black. Bright colours or busy prints are a real no-go.
Bow thing
Black bow ties are for the staff who work there.
Tie not done
A normal tie might be polite, but with white tie, it's not really the intention.
Watch alert
A wristwatch gives the impression you're waiting to leave. A pocket watch (for the old-school vibe) is OK.
Black socks
With the white tie dress code, wearing white socks is not allowed. This is because the white colour is seen as too much of a contrast with the dark coloured shoes and suit. In addition, it is associated with informality and disrespect.
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