White tie meaning

White tie is the most formal dress code, typically reserved for evening events, where men wear a black tailcoat and white bow tie.


White tie definitions

Word backwards etihw eit
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "white tie" is a noun.
Syllabic division white tie = white / tie
Plural The plural of the word white tie is white ties.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) i,e
Consonants (3) w,h,t

White tie is the most formal dress code typically reserved for the most prestigious events and occasions. This attire is characterized by a black tailcoat, matching trousers with a silk stripe on the side, a white dress shirt, white bow tie, and typically black patent leather shoes.

History of White Tie

White tie originated in the early 19th century as the preferred evening wear for upper-class men. It was a response to the formal dress requirements of attending evening events. Over time, the style evolved and became synonymous with elegance and sophistication.

Components of White Tie

The essential components of white tie attire include a black tailcoat, which is a waist-length coat with swallowtail extensions at the back. The trousers are typically high-waisted and black with a satin stripe running down the sides. A white marcella-cotton dress shirt with a piqué front, starched wing collar, and white bow tie are also key elements of the ensemble.

Occasions for White Tie

White tie is traditionally reserved for the most formal events, such as state dinners, royal affairs, opera premieres, and exclusive galas. It is the pinnacle of sartorial elegance and is often worn by high-ranking dignitaries, celebrities, and members of royalty.

While black tie attire has become more common for formal occasions, white tie remains the epitome of formal dress and is a symbol of refinement and luxury.

tailcoat elegance sophistication formal


White tie Examples

  1. Attending a formal event wearing a white tie symbolizes elegance and sophistication.
  2. The dress code for the gala is white tie, so make sure to don your finest tuxedo.
  3. The ambassador greeted the guests in a white tie ensemble, looking dapper and refined.
  4. She selected a stunning ball gown to complement her husband's white tie outfit.
  5. The orchestra members were all dressed in white tie attire for the concert.
  6. The wedding invitation specified white tie attire for the ceremony and reception.
  7. The opera house requires patrons to adhere to a strict white tie dress code.
  8. He felt out of place at the black-tie event because he misinterpreted the invitation as white tie.
  9. The prestigious award ceremony calls for celebrities to arrive in white tie and tails.
  10. The debutantes practiced their waltz in elegant white tie dresses ahead of the ball.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 00:38:29