Black tie on invite means?

The man wears a tuxedo? My friend wants to know if she has to wear a black dress. I said no, I don't think so. What's the rule for black tie?

i believe that means tuxedo, and for women that means long dresses only

guys = tuxedos
ladies = gowns

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Posted by Valentinegirl

TY! Not a black gown though for the lady. Any color is ok?

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Any color is fine - IMO Black Tie (for women) refers to the formality of the gown, not that it has to be black.

For a black tie function, a woman should wear a floor length dress or gown if she has one but more and more often, short dresses are acceptable as long as they are not too short and 'hoochie-mama' looking. I am making sure that the female performers in my band are appropriately dressed for my formal function. I have seen singers at showcases that look like Las Vegas showgirls - ew.

For men, Black tie means that tuxedos are preferred but a dark suit is still acceptable and appropriate.

Many people are not aware of the proper attire for formal functions. Years ago, a Saturday night function was automatically assumed to be formal. If people still knew, there would be no need to request black tie in the first place - JMO.

That's what I thought.