The last thing you want to do is arrive at a formal event to find you’re drastically overdressed or underdressed. When you receive that invitation in the mail, you need to decipher the dress code so you know what to wear. The team at Zaccariello’s Tailor & Formal Wear have shared a guide below to help you determine which suit type and formal tie to wear to your event in the Wallingford, CT, area.

Common Formal Tie Dress Codes

Black Tie

A black-tie event expects you to wear a classic black tuxedo with a black bow tie and black leather oxfords. You can choose to add a pocket square if you’d like, but it should be a muted color or white. If you are going to get a tuxedo rental for the event, choose a high-quality one that provides a tailored look.

A “black tie optional” event means you should wear a tuxedo if you have one or have the means to rent one. If you do not, wear a nice black suit with a tie or bow tie and polished black shoes. “Black tie creative” expects you to wear black tie attire but provides some flexibility with your tuxedo accessories. Add a brightly colored bow tie or a colored jacket to show off your style.

White Tie

White tie is the strictest dress code of all and may also be called “full dress.” You may have this dress code for a fancy gala, the opera, or an official ceremony. Wear a white, full-dress, stiff bosom shirt with a detachable white pique wing collar under a white waistcoat. Top that with a black tailcoat. Accessorize with all-white bowtie, cufflinks and shirt studs. Wear black pleated trousers with a tuxedo stripe and black patent oxfords.

No matter what your dress code is, Zaccarielo’s Tailor & Formal Wear has what you need to look your best. They can fit your budget for a one-time event by connecting you with a tuxedo and suit rental, or they can precisely tailor your suit to wear time and again. They have a wide range of accessories, so you can easily find the right formal tie. Contact them at (203) 269-8652 to schedule an appointment.