When it comes to wedding dress codes, white tie is the ultimate in formality and the most misunderstood. Often confused with black tie or elevated cocktail attire, white tie is a world unto itself: rich in history, steeped in tradition, and rare enough to feel truly once-in-a-lifetime.

Planning or attending a white tie wedding requires a different level of preparation, etiquette, and attention to detail. If you’ve ever found yourself confused by event attire, you’re not alone. This guide offers wedding dress codes explained, starting with the most formal of them all: white tie.

Let’s demystify this elegant code, from fashion dos and don’ts to hiring a luxury wedding planner and choosing the perfect venue.

What Is White Tie?

At its core, white tie is the most formal dress code in Western fashion. It goes beyond the tuxedo, demanding a specific silhouette, fabric, and accessory set for both men and women.

A quick definition:

White tie attire calls for men to wear a black tailcoat (with tails), a white pique waistcoat, a white bow tie, a formal white shirt with a winged collar, and patent leather shoes.

Women must wear a floor-length gown, typically styled with understated yet elegant jewelry, evening gloves (optional), and impeccably styled hair and makeup.

A brief history:

This dress code dates back to the 19th century and is still used for royal galas, presidential state dinners, and Nobel Prize ceremonies. It symbolizes the pinnacle of refinement, where tradition reigns, and every detail matters.

It’s no surprise, then, that a white tie wedding is regarded as the most extravagant and formal of all.

When Is a White Tie Wedding Appropriate?

White tie isn’t for every wedding, nor should it be. This is a dress code that thrives in settings that match its grandeur and tradition.

Consider going white tie if you’re hosting:

• An ultra-formal evening wedding, especially one that begins after 6 or 7 p.m.
• An event at a grand venue, such as a historic mansion, luxury ballroom, private estate, or five-star hotel.
• A celebration with a large guest list, including dignitaries, diplomats, or high society guests accustomed to formalwear etiquette.

In short, if your dream day looks like something out of Bridgerton, a royal wedding documentary, or a high-society gala, then a white tie wedding may be your perfect match. Just remember, the more opulent and tradition-driven your vision, the better suited it is for white tie.

White Tie vs Black Tie: Know the Difference

Many guests confuse white tie with black tie, but there are distinct differences in formality, attire, and overall atmosphere. White tie isn’t just a step up, it’s in a class of its own. Here’s how they compare:

When it comes to black tie vs white tie, the latter follows much stricter fashion codes, with little room for improvisation or modern twists. While black tie allows for sleek contemporary tailoring and creative styling, white tie demands absolute adherence to tradition, think royal galas, state dinners, and vintage court balls. It’s formalwear in its purest, most ceremonial form.

What Guests Should Wear to a White Tie Wedding

Here’s a quick formal wedding attire guide for guests navigating the white tie world.

Men should wear:

• A black tailcoat with silk-faced lapels
• High-waisted formal trousers
• White wing-collar shirt with a pique bib
• White bow tie and matching white waistcoat
• Black patent leather shoes
• Optional: white gloves, pocket watch, and boutonnière

Women should wear:

• A full-length formal gown (no high-low hemlines or cocktail dresses)
• Elegant and understated jewelry
• Evening clutch
• Gloves (optional, but encouraged)
• Hair styled formally, such as a chignon or soft waves

There’s no flexibility here. Guests should not interpret the dress code creatively. It’s better to err on the side of overdressing than underdressing for a white tie wedding.

How to Plan a White Tie Wedding

Executing a white tie event requires careful attention to detail, starting with the perfect venue. Once you’ve partnered with a seasoned event planner for formal weddings, turn to LXMPLS for a refined and luxurious setting ideal for hosting celebrations worthy of this high-level dress code.

To get it right, focus on:

• Hiring a luxury planner: This professional will understand the nuances of white tie etiquette.
• Stationery: Choose formal, engraved invitations with traditional language.
• Venue: Ensure the space has grandeur. Think chandeliers, marble staircases, or historic architecture.
• Floral design: Go dramatic and romantic. Cascading arrangements, tall centerpieces, and fragrant blooms.
• Lighting: Use warm, ambient lighting and candlelight to elevate the ambiance.
• Entertainment: Live classical musicians or a string quartet are ideal for setting the tone.
• Dining: A multi-course plated dinner with champagne towers, wine pairings, and impeccable service is a must.

For more white tie wedding inspiration, consider browsing luxury wedding portfolios or working with planners who specialize in high-end, detail-driven events. To bring your vision to life, connect with LXMPLS to explore our distinctive venues – perfect for collaborating with your wedding planner on how to plan a white tie event tailored to your tastes.

Tips for the Wedding Party

For the wedding party, the stakes are high. Their attire should reflect the formality of the occasion and complement the overall theme with absolute precision. A mismatched or underdressed bridal party can clash with the regal tone of the event, so every detail counts.

Groom and Groomsmen

This is not the time for tuxedo rentals from the local mall. White tie calls for the most refined tailoring available. Opt for bespoke tailcoats from experienced formalwear designers or premium rental services that specialize in groom white tie outfit ensembles. The silhouette should be classic and sharp: black tailcoat, white piqué waistcoat, white bow tie, and patent leather shoes, and all perfectly fitted. Even small details, like shirt studs and cufflinks, should be thoughtfully selected to match the formality of the occasion.

If you’re unsure where to begin, an event planner for formal weddings can connect you with vetted stylists or menswear ateliers that understand the unique requirements of white tie dress.

Bridesmaids

Bridesmaids should wear matching or harmonized floor-length gowns that elevate the sense of occasion and align with the couple’s chosen palette and venue. Think rich fabrics like satin, silk, or velvet. Opt for minimal embellishments, but maximum elegance. The cuts can vary slightly to flatter different body types, but the overall look must remain cohesive and formal.

Avoid trends that lean too casual (like high slits or bold prints) and instead aim for timeless silhouettes that mirror the grandeur of the setting.

Tip: Communicate clearly and early. Include the dress code on your invitations and wedding website, and don’t assume everyone knows what white tie means. Visual inspiration helps, such as offering links, reference looks or even creating a shared Pinterest board. If your budget allows, consider hiring a stylist or offering group fittings to make the process seamless.

Read More: What Are The Duties of Bridesmaids and Groomsmen?

Common Mistakes to Avoid with White Tie Weddings

Even the most well-meaning couple can make a misstep when attempting a white tie wedding. The margin for error is small, and this is not the time for improvisation. Here are some all-too-common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Assuming white tie = tux
   A tuxedo, while formal, doesn’t meet the dress code. White tie requires a tailcoat, white bow tie, and specific accessories, all of which differ significantly from black tie attire. Make this clear on all communication channels.
2. Letting guests “interpret” the code
   Clarity is kindness. Provide detailed attire guidelines on your website and include visual examples. If possible, suggest reputable outfitters or include links to formal wedding attire guides to eliminate guesswork.
3. Choosing a casual or minimal venue
   A barn or industrial loft may work for rustic-chic or modern weddings, but they clash with the elegance of white tie. Choose spaces that elevate the experience, such as grand ballrooms, historic mansions, or luxury hotels designed to handle the demands of a formal affair.
4. Overlooking décor, lighting, or entertainment
   White tie goes beyond outfits, it’s a full sensory experience. Think crystal chandeliers, live classical ensembles, candlelit tablescapes, and multi-course plated dinners. Avoid any decor that feels sparse, trendy, or too modern. Let your white tie wedding inspiration guide you toward timeless opulence.
5. Skipping professional planning support
   Executing a white tie wedding without professional help is like trying to host a royal gala without a court. An experienced luxury wedding planner ensures every detail aligns, from stationery to staff etiquette, and helps maintain a seamless, stress-free experience. A white tie wedding is best managed by a luxury wedding planner team who can bring elegance, structure, and calm to the process.

Ready to Create Your Own White Tie Magic?

A white tie wedding is not for the faint of heart. It’s bold, rare, and unforgettable. But when executed well, it transports everyone into a world of royal elegance and timeless celebration.

By investing in experienced planners, prioritizing the right venue and attire, and honoring formalwear etiquette, your celebration can feel as grand as a state dinner and as personal as a handwritten love letter.

Ready to turn your dream into a reality? Reach out to the team at LXMPLS to explore our elegant venue spaces and create a wedding experience that will leave your guests awestruck. Because when it comes to elegance, tradition, and timeless style, white tie never goes out of fashion.