Finding the perfect outfit for a black tie event can be as challenging as it’s easy. The first question that pops into most minds when they hear black tie is formal wear.
As much as that is true, the formality of pulling off a perfect black tie event outfit transcends the regular and standard suit and tie approach. It transcends the long dresses and their colors — there’s no pressure to wear black clothes.
The end goal at every black tie event is to look as sophisticated as possible. Over the years, women have opted for floor-length evening gowns accentuated with precious gems and bedazzled clutches, while some have opted for more color and cocktail dresses. We do not have all the answers, but Mai Atafo has a detailed guide.
Amidst exceptional whisky and five-course meals, The Macallan hosted one of its many black-tie events for the unveiling of its 80-year-old The Reach whisky; and Mai Atafo was one of the selected guests Here’s his guide on how to dress appropriately for a black-tie event.
Photo Courtesy Seyitan Atigarin (Left) interviewing Mai Atafo
Follow the rules:
In plain terms, Atafo said, ‘Just follow the rules. Black tie events are for evening wear, so you should wear a tuxedo, bow tie, patent shoes, or slippers.’ He emphasized bow ties as long ties are not black tie-approved, but you can wear them either way.
Photo Courtesy Sunkanmi Ojulari (left) and Mai Atafo
The devil is in the details:
Black tie styling is about the details. One detail most miss is wearing trousers with belts. Atafo had suggested trousers, no belt with a side taping at the side of the trousers. For suits, he prefers that the lapel have satin or velvet. He added, ‘If you want to keep it in trend.’
There are specifications for the shirt too, as he prefers a tuxedo shirt, ‘which should be a Marcella, pleated or at the minimum a concealed button,’ he said.
For the unveiling of The Macallan’s oldest whisky, The Reach, Mai Atafo stuck to the dress code as he opted for a black three-piece single-buttoned suit from his ATAFO collection dazzling, whilst making a fashion statement on the black carpet.
