A Guide to the White Tie Dress Code For Women
While it can be intimidating and confusing for those who are not familiar with the requirements, a white-tie occasion is normally a spectacular affair.
If you’re attending a white tie event for a formal occasion, it is wise to take the dress code very seriously, as this is the most formal of all dress codes for women.
The dress guidelines are in place to ensure that the event carries a certain level of poise and formality, so it’s my duty to help you understand what’s expected so you can look your best.
In this article I’ll guide you through white tie attire for women and some of the wardrobe dos and don’ts that you need to know.
From gowns to accessories, I’ll cover the essential elements of white tie and provide you with some helpful tips and examples along the way.
Bottom line
White-tie attire for women includes a full-length formal gown with a fitted bodice and a floor-length skirt made of luxurious fabric such as silk or velvet. The dress can be strapless and paired with opera-length gloves. Closed-toe heels in a neutral color are most appropriate. Elegant jewelry, such as pearl or diamond pieces, is often worn.
What is white tie attire for women
It’s hard to feel overdressed at a white-tie event, and in fact, the more common mistake that women make with their attire is being “underdressed” for the occasion.
This is because we are used to seeing sleek and sexy outfits on red carpets and glossy magazines, and we often think of them as the most formal way to dress. However, white-tie events require an extra layer of formality and detail that you need to understand to get it right.
So even though it may seem obvious to wear a dress, it’s important to remember that a white tie is not only the most formal but also the most traditional dress code. This means that you need to choose the right type of dress as well, down to the smaller details.
Dresses
White-tie dresses don’t always have to be as princess-esque as the famous Viennese ball gown. If you suspect that an elaborate ballroom gown will be too much for your white-tie event, don’t worry; you don’t have to go that far.
A helpful way to choose a good white tie dress is to think of a black tie dress that is more conservative and traditional-looking. That means no thigh-slits, no plunging necklines, no transparent material, or anything else that is too revealing. Here are some of the general guidelines to follow:
- A gown should be floor-length. A short dress or a smart trouser suit is not acceptable for white-tie events. Women should wear a full-length ball gown that falls to the floor and covers the ankles.
- Tailored fit: Dresses usually have a form-fitting bodice with more volume or detailing in the skirt.
- No transparent material Instead, opt for luxurious fabrics that are opaque. You can have sequins and sparkly details as long as they’re not overdone.
- No slits or cut-outs: All hemlines should be cut straight and even; there should be no asymmetrical shapes or silhouettes.
- No revealing necklines: The dress should be as elegant and formal as possible without looking corporate.
- Not too garish, daring, or risqué in terms of color or prints: Jewel colors, pastels, and deep, rich colors are all acceptable, but whites and creams are often a favorite choice for many.
- Sleeves and gloves: While it is not always necessary for women to cover their shoulders, it is advisable to check the dress code and take cues from the formality of the event. If shoulders are bare, consider wearing white elbow-high gloves and/or a shawl. Note that if you wear gloves, they’re usually expected to remain on unless at the dinner table.
The whole point of white-tie attire is to show the utmost respect not only to the overall purpose of the event but also to the rest of the guests in attendance. So while it’s important to look and feel your best, it’s more important to appear respectable even if you don’t stand out from the crowd with your individual style.
A black tie dress can be slightly more risque and express more of your individual tastes, but for a white tie dress, it’s important to prioritize the actual event rather than your own style. This is an important point that is not only true for dresses but for other white-tie attire such as accessories as well.
Tiara
There is no strict rule that women must wear tiaras to a white-tie event. However, it is definitely an appropriate thing to do if the dress code says “white tie with decorations.”
Traditionally, tiaras are worn at state banquets, royal weddings, coronations, and Viennese balls. These days, it’s also common to wear a tiara at proms, but if you are going to a white-tie wedding, it’s safe to assume that the only woman who should be wearing a tiara is the bride.
It’s worth noting that unless your invitation says “with decorations,” you are not expected to wear a tiara, and it’s more of a personal choice.
Some women don’t feel comfortable at all wearing a tiara, especially since they’re usually worn by members of a royal family.
However, in my opinion, if you have the opportunity to wear a tiara, take it! How often do you get to wear one and feel like an actual princess, or at the very least, add the finishing touch to your hair?
Hair & Makeup
Hair and makeup should be elegant and sophisticated. The hairstyle should be formal and polished, such as an updo or sleek low bun. Hair accessories, such as a tiara or jeweled hairpin, can also be added for extra glamour.
Makeup should also be classic and refined, with a focus on a flawless complexion, subtle eyeshadow. Bold red lips are acceptable but you can also opt for something more natural and subtle as well.
False lashes can add a touch of glamour, but should be applied with a light hand. It’s important to remember that the goal is to look polished and put together, without appearing overly done-up or carrying large accessories.
Handbag or Purse?
A small clutch or a stylish evening purse like a minaudière is the perfect accessory to complete your outfit. The bag should match your dress and preferably have a simple, elegant design.
It is important to choose one that’s small enough to carry your essentials, such as your phone, lipstick, and money, but not too big that it detracts from your overall look.
It can be made of a variety of materials, such as satin, velvet, leather, or even something sparkly, depending on your personal preference. Remember, it should complement your dress and not overpower it.
Suitable Fabric
The formality and appropriateness of your dress are more important than the material you choose, and if you have limited options, it is important to prioritize that over expensive or luxurious materials.
However, if you can go the extra mile, then it’s worth noting that if there was ever an occasion to choose only the finest materials, then a white-tie event is the perfect opportunity.
As long as your dress follows the guidelines above, you are free to opt for luxurious materials like silk, velvet, and anything else that adds to the opulence. Just remember to avoid fabrics that are too transparent or lightweight.
It’s a good idea to avoid materials that crease easily, such as cotton or linen, as you want to look as polished as possible, and these fabrics can look too casual and detract from your look. This means that you may need to pay extra attention to the fabric labels of your dress and where you buy it.
Where to find dresses for white tie events
Knowing where to look for a white-tie dress can be challenging. The more prestigious types of white-tie events call for a well-designed dress with no expense spared.
High-end designers such as Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, and Elli Saab are known for their beautiful gowns, and you can usually find designer gowns like this in department stores, high-end boutiques, and online luxury retailers.
Some popular department stores that carry formal dresses include Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and Net a Porter.
If your budget doesn’t stretch to designer gowns or your white tie event is not such a regal affair, you can also find suitable dresses at premium brands such as Self-Portrait, Reiss, or Zimmerman.
Online dress sites like Revolve and Lulus offer a wide selection of dresses at affordable prices and are fast and convenient too.
Regardless of where you shop, the most important thing to consider is finding a dress that suits the formality of the event and your personal style, so you can enjoy your special occasion to the fullest.
Summary
White-tie events are the most formal of dress codes that you can be asked to adhere to, and women need to be very intentional about the attire they choose.
While we’re used to seeing sleek and sexy outfits on red carpets and in magazines, white-tie events require an extra layer of formality and detail.
Women should wear a full-length ball gown that falls to the floor and covers the ankles. The dress should be as elegant and formal as possible without looking corporate.
Luxurious fabrics, such as silk or velvet, are suitable, and sequins and sparkly details are acceptable as long as they are not overdone. Keep it conservative, and avoid anything else that is too revealing.
Closed-toe heels in a neutral color are perfect, but you may get away with open-toe heels too. Jewelry should be elegant, and tiaras are optional if the occasion allows.
Keep in mind that this dress code is opulent, but it’s also about etiquette and showing respect, so try to opt for the most beautiful gown you can and enjoy feeling like a princess.
FAQ
White vs. black ties for ladies
White-tie and black-tie attire are both formal dress codes for special events. However, they have some distinct differences in terms of attire for ladies.
White-tie events have the most formal dress code and require women to wear full-length gowns, often with long sleeves and conservative necklines.
Black tie for women is slightly less formal and allows for a wider range of dress styles. Women can wear either full-length gowns or elegant cocktail dresses, with more options for sleeves and necklines.
In general, black tie attire is a bit more flexible for women to express their personal style, while white tie attire adheres to a more traditional and conservative dress code.
Can women wear black to a white-tie event?
Yes, women can wear black to a white-tie event. Wearing black to a white-tie event is acceptable as long as it is a floor-length formal gown that respects the overall formality of the event.
Although traditionally black is worn at funerals in Western culture and not for celebrations, it is still a staple color for formal attire and is often seen as a classic and elegant choice.
However, it’s important to note that while black is acceptable, many women choose to wear light and bright gowns or a black dress with white details to lighten the overall look. Women usually wear brighter colors; it helps their outfits stand out and stay in keeping with the celebration atmosphere.
Can women wear pantsuits to a white-tie event?
Traditionally, women are expected to wear a full-length formal gown for white-tie events. It is not common for women to wear a suit instead of a gown, but it is wise to double check with your hosts for confirmation.