Etiquette for wearing ties at a "Black Tie" event

Question

I've been invited to a wedding (in Scotland, UK). It's described as a "Black-tie" event and the groom has asked guests to wear a dinner jacket (tuxedo), but it's not an absolute requirement. A few guests will be wearing suits, and I plan to do the same.

For guests wearing a dinner jacket, they will be wearing black bow ties, which is the expected accompaniment.

My question is: is there etiquette about what colour and type of tie to wear when attending a "black tie" but not actually wearing a dinner jacket?

Should the tie be a bow tie? (That may look a bit half-baked.)

Should the tie also be black? (That may look like I am attending a funeral, which is something I'd want to avoid unless it's the expected look, but it would match the general colour theme.)

Or is there no expected standard and I can wear whatever colour tie I like?

Answer 1

Do not wear a black tie. Best would be a conservative bow tie with a suit. You can also wear an ordinary tie. It should just match the suit and be mature and have a certain amount of gravitas.

Basically the formal situation (if that is what it is) is such that the tone is serious and respectful, so you want to reflect that in your choice of suit and tie. Like what you would wear to church.

Answer 2

I agree that wearing a black suit and tie is more suitable for a funeral than a wedding reception. The affair sounds rather grand, I'd visit the venue's website, you should be able to tell if you need to to be dressed really smartly and perhaps even consider getting a good haircut.

Overall, a dark suit, navy blue or dark grey, with a matching dark tie will do. (source: Gentlemen's Gazette)

For a touch of colour and class, a silk pocket square will give you that confidence to stand your own ground among the black bowtie wearers.

Weddings and formal events
Choosing the right pocket square in these events depend on the dress code and colour theme. For formal events that are a little more celebratory (such as weddings), you can afford to wear a pocket square that adds a pop of colour to your suit.

_{Snippet interview with Dylan Ang and image courtesy of Three Buttons}

The most important thing is to enjoy your look and feel comfortable. Confidence is everything, and I guarantee no one will care what you are wearing as long as you don't stick out like a sore thumb, which you won't. Relax.