If it is a black tie affair or the invitation says “black tie”, the appropriate attire would be black tuxedo jacket and matching trousers. This would be worn with a formal pleated front shirt with black studs and cuff links. You would accessorize with a black bow tie and black cummerbund or vest. Black patent leather shoes should be worn to complete the formal look. In the summer months or on a cruise, a white dinner jacket with the black trousers plus the other black tie wardrobe can be worn.

If the invitation says black tie optional, you could wear a tuxedo, of course, but a dark suit, white dress shirt and conservative tie with leather dress shoes would be appropriate as well.

Tuxedos combined with trendy or whimsical items, such as a black shirt or a matching colored or patterned bow tie and cummerbund would be considered creative black tie.