Ah,dress codes,those curly-wurly words that can throw even the most assured of dressers into a fishtail-hem spin. What’s the difference between “cocktail” and “formal”? In a world where sneakers are acceptable office attire,what does “smart-casual” even mean? And what in heaven’s name is “lounge suit”? I’ve never figured it out,either.
On paper,at least,black tie is pretty straightforward. Pre-pandemic,I could probably count the number of bona fide black-tie events on the social calendar on one hand (Brownlow,Dally M,Logies,NGV Gala,plus the odd society wedding). Now,the number of black-tie invitations gracing my inbox is out of control. It’s as if people are no longer content with just being able to get together again:events must be elevated to “gala” status.
I love a party as much as the next gal,but please don’t make me dig out my ball gown every time you whip out a tray of canapés. Taffeta isn’t the natural antidote to trackpants;just because wecan black tie doesn’t mean weshould.
And so,in the spirit ofNew York Magazine’s Urban Etiquette Handbook (example,“If someone’s wearing a mask,don’t ask why”),I propose this simple,“Is black tie really warranted here?” checklist:
1. Are guests expected to stand the whole time? If so,the answer’s no.
2. Is the event at a time that allows “normal” people to adequately prepare? I’m not talking about influencers,who are often paid to be preened by an army to attend parties. I mean “normies”,those of us who have to shimmy into a full-length dress in the office toilets. Black tie at 6pm on a weeknight? No thanks.
3. Are you just doing it for the ’gram? Get with it. It’s all about TikTok now,anyway.Melissa Singer
Tips for nailing a black tie brief
Accessorise
Accessorise your way out of having to buy a new frock like Kate,Princess of Wales. She wore the same McQueen dress to the 2019 and 2023 BAFTAs,updating her most recent look with earrings,opera gloves and a new clutch. This Olga Berg “Bianca” bag,is an affordable start,plus the brand has been black tie-approved by many celebs,including Kate’s favourite sister-in-law,Meghan.
Where to buy: Olga Berg,$90. Christie Nicolaides,$319.
Hand-draped design
Hand-draping fabric on a mannequin is the starting point of the design process for Australian fashion label Acler. Unlike digital design,this technique,widely used in luxury couture houses,zeroes in on a garment’s shape and movement.
Where to buy:Acler,$695 (pre-order).
Let it flow
If the idea of formal wear is so burdensome you’d rather just stay home,consider a flowing look in a luxury fabric. Carl Kapp’s draped taffeta sateen dress works just as well on the red carpet as at a stylish garden party. It’s also a great silhouette for plus-sized party-goers who quail at the prospect of exposed arms. Style with strappy heels and bold jewels for the evening or a pair of well-made flats for a daytime do.
Where to buy: Carl Kapp,$2495;Camilla and Marc,$350 (on sale);Fairley,$299.Anna-Lisa Backlund
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