At every wedding the brides dress is the main attraction of the wedding day and so sometimes the grooms attire gets the guests second look.
But the perfect way to stand out from the wedding norm is to opt for something different by choosing to wear black tie for your wedding instead.
Cad & the Dandy are here to give you their expert advice on black tie etiquette and how to make sure both the groom and the bride’s outfits are the main attractions.
Not just for formal events, black tie is becoming evermore popular at weddings. Don’t know your cummerbunds from your dress stripes? We’ve put together this simple guide to help you navigate this sharpest of all the suiting looks.
CLOTH
Black wool is the standard when it comes to dinner jackets, but midnight blue offers a compelling alternative. The midnight blue produces less of a sheen than black when under artificial light, so is said to look “blacker than black”. Sometimes a wool (lamb) and mohair (goat) blend will be used to make a lighter, more breathable cloth with a crisp texture.
JACKET
A jacket with silk facings, usually grosgrain (ribbed) or satin, on a shawl collar, peaked lapel or notched lapel. Many current fashion stylists and writers see notched lapels as less formal although they (like peaked and shawl) have been used since the first evolution of the garment.
TROUSERS
Trousers with a single silk or satin braid covering the outer seams.
CUMMERBUND
This is a broad waist sash, usually pleated, which dates back to colonial India, and can be worn instead of a low-cut waistcoat.
SHIRT
A white dress shirt (a marcella or pleated front is traditional), double cuffs and cufflinks, and a cutaway or winged standing collar. Currently, the more popular option is the cut away collar.
TIE
A black silk bow tie matching the lapel facings.
STUDS
Shirt studs and cufflinks. Studs are often dispensed with today, but can add to a traditional look.
SOCKS
Black dress socks, usually of silk or fine wool.
SHOES
Black shoes—traditionally patent leather court shoes; now often highly polished or patent leather Oxfords instead.
To see Cad & The Dandy’s full menswear collection including their black tie selection be sure to visit their stand H42 at The National Wedding Show in London Olympia this Autumn.
#TNWS x