What is appropriate to wear to a black-tie-optional wedding?

It's interesting:
"On behalf of the bride and groom, I'd like to thank everyone for coming here today. Some of you have travelled considerable distances in order to be here and celebrate Paul and Linda’s happy day. Africa, Continental Europe, the Americas and Asia are not actually places where anyone has travelled from, but I hear that Uncle Jim and Auntie Morag had a 5 hour drive down from Glasgow."

As weddings become more personal and couples seek ways to make their special day unique to them, wedding dress codes have also become more complicated. Understanding the subtle differences between dress styles, and what you should wear when, can save you the embarrassment of arriving underdressed to a formal event. For example, one commonly misunderstood wedding dress code is black-tie optional.

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1. Definition

   • A black-tie optional wedding is a formal event, usually held in the late afternoon or evening. Unlike traditional black or white-tie affairs, the rules for black-tie optional are slightly more relaxed. Essentially, black-tie optional represents the middle ground between the extreme formality of a black tie event and the semiformal attire most commonly associated with weddings. Consider a black-tie optional event a chance to wear either a long satin gown or a sassy vintage beaded cocktail dress. The key is to think dressed up, glamorous and formal.

   Women's Attire

   • According to Emily Post, women attending a black-tie optional event should wear a formal, floor-length gown, a dressy cocktail dress or dressy separates. In general, dresses are most appropriate, but pants or skirts made from more dressy fabrics, such as silk, satin or velvet, can work. Look for separates that feature beading, intricate embroidery or even a little bit of sparkle. For example, a pair of wide-legged velvet trousers paired with a sparkly tank and an embellished cashmere shrug or cardigan is appropriate for this type of event.

   Accessories and Styling

   • A black-tie optional event is a glamorous affair, so take the time to style yourself more dramatically than you would for everyday. When you’-re headed to a black-tie optional event, leave your oversized work purse at home. Instead, carry a small clutch —- look for something with a little sparkle to add glamour to your outfit. Dramatic, bold accessories are also appropriate. Save the simple studs for work, and wear a pair of large drop earrings, or choose a large cocktail ring or statement necklace or bracelet. Hair styled into a formal up-do would not be out of place, either.

   Men's Attire

   • Men attending a black-tie optional wedding have the choice to wear either a formal tuxedo or a dark suit with a dress shirt, tie, and black shoes and socks. If you choose to go the tux route, choose tuxedo pants without the satin stripe or braid, as that style is associated with the more formal white-tie style. Wear a black bow tie, a black cummerbund or vest, and dark-colored cuff links and studs. Avoid wearing colored bow ties and cummerbunds, such as those that match your companion’-s dress- these are generally reserved for creative black tie events or the wedding party. Shine your dress shoes, and wear black dress socks.

Source: www.ehow.com

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