The Black Tie dress code originated in the 1880s when the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) asked his Savile Row tailor Henry Poole to create a short evening jacket for informal dinners. This revolutionary garment — the dinner jacket — quickly replaced the tailcoat for all but the most formal White Tie occasions.

Today, Black Tie is the most common formal dress code worldwide. When an invitation says "Black Tie," "Formal," or "Cravate Noire," a tuxedo is expected. Wearing a business suit to a Black Tie event is considered underdressed. Investing in a bespoke tuxedo ensures you are always prepared for formal occasions.

Black Tie etiquette extends beyond the tuxedo itself. The shirt must be white with French cuffs. The bow tie should be self-tied (pre-tied bow ties are considered poor form). Shoes should be black patent leather or highly polished calfskin. A pocket square in white linen completes the look.

The traditional Black Tie tuxedo is midnight black — the safest and most universally appropriate choice. However, midnight blue has a fascinating optical advantage: under artificial light (which is most evening lighting), midnight blue appears deeper and richer than black, which can look slightly grey.

This secret was known to the Duke of Windsor, who famously preferred midnight blue tuxedos. Today, both colours are equally correct for Black Tie. Touch Tailor offers both options in our premium Italian fabric range. During your consultation, our tailors can show you fabric swatches under different lighting conditions to help you decide.

A complete Black Tie wardrobe starts with the tuxedo but extends to every accessory. Touch Tailor can craft your bespoke dress shirt with a wing collar or turn-down collar, French cuffs, and a pleated or plain front. We also offer silk bow ties, cummerbunds, and waistcoats.

For frequent formal event attendees, consider investing in two tuxedos: a classic black for winter events and a white dinner jacket for summer or tropical occasions. This versatility ensures you are appropriately dressed year-round. Touch Tailor's made to measure option makes building a formal wardrobe more accessible.