There’s something undeniably alluring about the old money aesthetic – a look that exudes elegance, refinement, and a hint of aristocratic charm.
As a young man navigating the world of black-tie events, mastering this style can seem daunting. But fear not, gentlemen.
With a few key pieces and an eye for detail, you, too, can channel the sophistication of old money at your next formal affair.
Old Money Black Tie Essentials
| Component | Old Money Black Tie Notes |
|---|---|
| Tuxedo | Single-breasted, peak lapel or shawl collar, black or midnight blue, luxurious fabric |
| Dress Shirt | White, French cuffs, spread or wing collar, studs instead of buttons |
| Bow Tie | Self-tie, black silk or satin, subtle pattern or rich color optional |
| Shoes | Black patent leather oxfords or opera pumps, velvet slippers optional |
| Accessories | White pocket square, understated cufflinks, elegant dress watch, cummerbund optional |
The key to old money black tie style is in the details. Every element of your ensemble should be carefully chosen and impeccably fitted.
By investing in quality pieces and paying attention to the finer points, you’ll effortlessly channel the sophistication and refinement of a bygone era.
Tuxedo
The foundation of any old-money black tie look is a flawlessly tailored tuxedo.
Opt for a classic single-breasted jacket in a luxurious wool or mohair blend with a peak lapel or a shawl collar.
The jacket should fit snugly across the shoulders and taper slightly at the waist for a refined silhouette.
Choose trousers with a high waist and a single stripe of silk or satin down the leg, hemmed to break cleanly over your shoes.
When it comes to color, stick to traditional black or midnight blue.
For a touch of old-world elegance, consider a jacket with a subtle texture, such as a tone-on-tone stripe or a barely-there jacquard pattern.
Bow Tie and Shirt
No black tie look is complete without a crisp white dress shirt and a perfectly tied bow tie.
Choose a shirt with French cuffs and studs instead of buttons for a more formal look.
The shirt should have a classic spread or wing collar to accommodate the bow tie.
Opt for a self-tie version in black silk or satin for the bow tie.
Avoid pre-tied or clip-on bow ties at all costs – the slight imperfection of a self-tied bow is part of the charm.
If you’re feeling daring, a subtle tone-on-tone pattern or a deep, rich color like burgundy or forest green can add a touch of personality.
Shoes and Accessories
The right shoes and accessories can take your Old Money black tie look from good to great.
For shoes, opt for a pair of polished black patent leather oxfords or opera pumps.
Velvet slippers with a monogram or family crest can add a touch of aristocratic flair.
When it comes to accessories, less is more.
You need only a simple white pocket square in a presidential fold, a pair of understated gold or silver cufflinks, and a sleek dress watch.
For cufflinks, consider a classic monogram, a family crest, or a subtle gemstone.
Your watch should be thin and elegant – think a vintage Cartier tank or a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso.
Other optional accessories include a black silk cummerbund (worn in place of a waistcoat) and a pair of black silk dress socks.
If you opt for a cummerbund, make sure it sits snugly at your natural waist and covers the waistband of your trousers.
Styling Tips
- One of the hallmarks of the old money style is an emphasis on quality over quantity.
- When shopping for black tie pieces, prioritize the best fabrics your budget allows.
- A well-made, luxurious garment will always look more elegant than a cheaper, trendier option.
- Old money style is about timeless elegance, not fleeting trends.
- Focus on garments that fit you impeccably rather than chasing the latest fashions.
- A well-fitted classic tuxedo will serve you far better than a trendy, ill-fitting one.
- Stick to tried-and-true black tie colors like black, midnight blue, and white.
- Old money style is about understated refinement, not flashy colors or patterns.
- If you opt for a hint of color, keep it subtle and sophisticated – think of a deep burgundy or forest green velvet jacket.
Grooming for Black Tie
No old-money black tie look is complete without impeccable grooming.
Take the time to get a fresh haircut and a clean shave or neatly trimmed facial hair.
Ensure your nails are clean and manicured, and don’t forget a subtle spritz of a classic cologne. The details make the difference.
Styling Mistakes to Avoid
To truly embody old money style, there are a few fashion missteps you’ll want to avoid:
- Wearing a pre-tied or clip-on bow tie
- Opting for a novelty tuxedo in a bright color or pattern
- Neglecting to get your tuxedo tailored properly
- Over-accessorizing with flashy jewelry or cufflinks
- Wearing a tuxedo with a regular tie instead of a bow tie
Wear an Old Money Black Tie Like a Pro
Unsure where to start with your own old money black tie look?
At The VOU, our expert stylists are here to help you craft a complete old-money wardrobe for every occasion.
Our affordable styling packages will have you looking like a true aristocrat in no time.
Book your consultation today and step into a world of timeless sophistication, as when you look this good, you’ll feel like a million bucks.
Thanks a lot for such a superb post about black tie outfits and the secret of how to wear them. I truly thank your efforts in bringing this information to us, keep us updated with excellent posts like this
Can I wear a black-tie dress to a wedding? Or that’s a different outfit?
For women it must be Chanel, a little black dress from Chanel is the best outfit for a red carpet event. For men, go with a black tie suit from Moschino or Versace.
The black-tie dress code is the limelight of formal clothing as it enhances the whole look brilliantly. Thanks for sharing important tips like what socks, shoes, and hairstyle will go with this look.