From MSN: What do 'black tie' & 'cocktail attire' mean?
White Tie The dressiest, most formal type of event. Long, very formal evening gowns are expected; gloves are optional. This is the time to go all out with beading, fur stoles, and Manolo Blahnik pumps. Hair and makeup should be elegant and understated: think updos, French manicures, and expertly applied red lipstick (no false eyelashes or body glitter, please).
Black Tie Less dressy than white tie, but still quite formal. Good clothing choices include long gowns in satin or velvet; shorter knee-length dresses with glamorous heels; and dressed-up separates, like a beaded skirt and shell set. Hair and makeup follow the same rules as white tie: elegant and polished.
Black Tie Invited/Black Tie Optional Again, formal, but not the utmost in dressy. Black tie optional usually refers to men's clothing (your date can choose to wear a tuxedo or a simple dark suit); women can simply follow black tie dressing rules.
Black Tie Less dressy than white tie, but still quite formal. Good clothing choices include long gowns in satin or velvet; shorter knee-length dresses with glamorous heels; and dressed-up separates, like a beaded skirt and shell set. Hair and makeup follow the same rules as white tie: elegant and polished.
Black Tie Invited/Black Tie Optional Again, formal, but not the utmost in dressy. Black tie optional usually refers to men's clothing (your date can choose to wear a tuxedo or a simple dark suit); women can simply follow black tie dressing rules.
