Black tie event - short or long dress?

[peach]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:45pm

Okay fashionistas...

Can I wear a short dress to a black tie event, if the dress is otherwise formal in fabric, color and style?

I have to go to a work thing that I just found out (about five minutes ago) is black tie. And frankly, I don't want to drag out the "Oscars" gown for a work function that I'm not to keen on going to in the first place.

I'd be more comfortable in a shorter frock, but I don't want to look out of place seeing the thing is "black tie."

Side note, I think it's a little bit tacky (not horrible, just a little) to tell people a dress code on an invitation (I should be able to figure this out on my own, no? Although, clearly I can't because I'm asking for advice here!) but that's another discussion for another time!




Updated On: 1/16/07 at 04:45 PM

[TheatreDiva90016]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:46pm

LONG!

PERIOD.

[singtopher]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:47pm

How short is the short dress? Also, a shawl can dress it up nicely.

Generally when the aire is black tie, Long dresses are the norm.

Updated On: 1/16/07 at 04:47 PM

[SweetQintheLights]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:47pm

Is there a picture of it?

Or a picture that looks similar to it?

Is it like a 'little black dress?'

I really think it would be fine. If everyone just learned about it 5 minutes ago (and assuming the occasion is tonight), then I would say it's perfectly fine. I don't think it's right for it to be a last minute thing...

[blueroses]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:48pm

peach, I have to say I was surprised to see this thread. Forgive me, but I always thought you were a male poster! lol.

I've been to black tie events where women didn't wear floor-length. To be safe, I'd ask some of your female colleagues what they plan on wearing so you won't feel out of place.

[SweetQintheLights]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:49pm

" Forgive me, but I always thought you were a male poster! lol. "

Ok, so I wasn't the only one...


Edit: Well, then again some guys do wear dresses...


*Winks at Diva*

Updated On: 1/16/07 at 04:49 PM

[JohnBoy2]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:51pm

I go to black-tie events, all the time. Short and dressy, is fine. At least in the Washington, D.C. area, it is.

[peach]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:53pm

It's a little black dress - velvet, sleeveless. Very cute, classic, but also very simple.

The event isn't a last minute thing. My attendance is. I'm filling in for someone else. It's not tonight, so I do have some time to shop if I need to. I have a proper gown. I'm just no longer crazy about it...

[peach]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:56pm

Blue and Q - I'm a old drag queen, didn't you know?

Nope, seriously - I'm a girl for real with girl parts!

[best12bars]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 4:58pm

Short is fine in LA too, as long as it's VERY dressy.

If it's not, then long.




...Preferably with pantaloons and a hoop skirt.

[SweetQintheLights]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:00pm

A girl with real girl parts- now that is really something!

As someone mentioned earlier, a shawl can really dress it up a bit. In addition a little jewelry could make you look more dressy too. I also think you should ask some co-workers what they are wearing.

[WindyCityActor]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:01pm

http://www.ehow.com/how_1463_dress-black-tie.html

How to Dress for a Black-Tie Affair - Women

Your date can only choose a tux, but your black-tie options are limitless. Whether you choose satin or beads, a dress or a long skirt and top, remember that black-tie means very formal.
The Outfit

Instructions
STEP 1: Select a style and cut that flatters your figure, highlighting your assets and minimizing any problem areas.

STEP 2: Look for full-length skirts and dresses; lengths that hover around the knee are usually considered semiformal.

STEP 3: Consider the material and texture. Silk, satin, embroidery, beads, rhinestones, velvet and metallics are all well-suited for formal attire.

STEP 4: Evaluate your options if you decide to wear a two-piece ensemble. Pair a beaded stretch top with a full-length, slim velvet skirt, or a silk organza blouse with a full satin skirt that hits at your ankles.

STEP 5: Remember that your dress options are unlimited. Consider spaghetti straps or a jewel-neck collar; a plunging back or a revealing front neckline; and side or back slits. Some events may call for more conservative attire, so consider this when making your selection.

STEP 6: Choose colors that complement your complexion. Black isn't the only evening color. Deep reds and plums, crisp pastels, and silver and gold can all look equally stunning.

Tips & Warnings

Invite a trusted companion to see you in the outfit you're considering before you make the purchase.

Consult with your date to ensure that his tie and cummerbund match the color of your ensemble. Black complements everything.
Wear underwear that will remain discreet. Check to make sure that bra edges and straps will remain concealed throughout an evening of sitting, standing and dancing.

Hair, Makeup and Accessories
Instructions

STEP 1: Treat yourself to a manicure, and opt for a pedicure if you'll be wearing open-toed shoes.

STEP 2: Match your lip and nail color. Do more pronounced lips or dramatic eyes, but avoid the two together or you may appear overly made up.

STEP 3: Choose a hairstyle that's different from your everyday one. Curl it, gel it in place, or sweep it into a romantic updo or slick ponytail.

STEP 4: Select earrings that complement the tones and trims in your outfit. Pearls look great with beaded ensembles; diamonds or zirconia accentuate rhinestone-studded and metallic outfits.

STEP 5: Dangle a bracelet or two from your wrist when baring your arms. A charm bracelet will complement a short-sleeved bodice; a wide gold or rhinestone band will work well with a strapless number.

STEP 6: Complement a lightweight silk or satin outfit with strappy sandals or slipper mules. Velvet or colored satin pumps will work nicely with heavier materials.

STEP 7: Select a minibag or small clutch in the same material, color family and trim as your outfit. Black-tie events are no place for roomy purses. All you really need is your compact, lipstick, keys, I.D. and some cash.

[TheatreDiva90016]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:03pm

"STEP 2: Look for full-length skirts and dresses; lengths that hover around the knee are usually considered semiformal. "





See Deena, I told you!

[WindyCityActor]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:04pm

However...this source says that knee-length skirts are ok:

http://www.drdaveanddee.com/blacktie.html

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

My friends and I will be attending a "Black Tie" evening garden wedding. What is an appropriate dress length for this affair? Are there any preferred fabrics or colors for Black Tie events? My friends and I joke that any dress is Black Tie as long as your date is wearing a tuxedo. But, I will not have a companion, so my ensemble will have to stand on its own.

Signed,

Dress Stands Alone

Dear Dress Stands Alone,

For "Black Tie" events, men are limited to tuxedo attire. But for women, there are many options and choices.

Any nice outfit in any skirt length is appropriate, from the short little black dress to a longer more elegant gown. Dressier suits as well as pants in sandwashed silk or sueded rayon combined with a beautiful beaded/sequined top are also good choices.

While fabrics are often out of silk or satin-type material, it doesn’t need to be a fancy material. Basically, medium to lightweight, stretchy or woven fabrics are fine. If you feel the material is not formal enough, then enhance the attire with attractive jewelry pieces at the neck and wrist. Dressier shoes will also help transform the ensemble.

For weddings, guests should not wear solid white dresses so as not to "compete" with the bride. Otherwise, any color is acceptable for Black Tie, unless the event is a "Black & White Ball".

The only time a skirt length must be long is for "White Tie" functions.

[SuzyQzy]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:04pm

wow thats some complicated stuff!

[SweetQintheLights]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:06pm

jeez windycityactor- you shouldn't have posted the link. You should have pretended you wrote that all by yourself.

Now, I want to see a picture!

Is it something like this?
http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-11893124941750_1929_14686759

Updated On: 1/16/07 at 05:06 PM

[WindyCityActor]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:08pm

Emily Post says that for Black Tie:

Formal (floor length) evening gown or short, dressy cocktail dress.

For White Tie:

Formal (floor length) evening gown

http://emilypost.com/etiquette/special/attire.htm

Updated On: 1/16/07 at 05:08 PM

[TheatreDiva90016]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:10pm

Windy,

You are either with me, or against me.....

[peach]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:29pm

Oh now I'm torn!

Once I figure it out, I will post a picture. Q - my black dress looks more like the center picture.

This is an annual event. I looked at the photos from last year, and a lot of the ladies looked like bridesmaids. So I think whatever I choose to wear, I will look fine, compared to the others!

Thanks everyone for your help and advice!


Updated On: 1/16/07 at 05:29 PM

[WindyCityActor]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:35pm

Sorry TheatreDiva90016,

I am simply the messenger.

My advice regarding Black Tie: Rhinestones! Lotsa Rhinestones!!!

[The8re phan]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 5:54pm

In today's day & age, wearing panties can be considered 'black tie'--- DON'T PULL A BRITNEY!!!!!!

Updated On: 1/16/07 at 05:54 PM

[peach]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 6:01pm

But that could prove I am a real girl with real girl parts!

[PalJoey]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 7:06pm

Just ask yourself: WWAW?

What would Audrey wear?

[tagiunagi]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 7:36pm

A green, green dress will do.



20 buttons and a snap.



A short black dress is formal as well.

[SweetQintheLights]

Posted: 1/16/07 at 7:40pm

green dress?

Sorta like this?




Or, I'm sure just green paint will do.