GENTLEMEN

Black tie is sometimes referred to as 'dinner jackets', 'dress for dinner' and 'cravate noir' or, in America, as 'tuxedos.'

Traditional black tie for men consists of:

• Black wool dinner jacket. Single-breasted with no vents, silk peaked lapels (or a shawl collar) and covered buttons.

• Black trousers - slightly tapered - with a single row of braid down each outside leg.

• White marcella evening shirt with a soft turn-down collar, worn with cufflinks and studs.

• Black bow tie must be hand tied; avoid novelty ties or colours.

• Highly polished or patent black lace-up shoes.

• Black silk socks, long enough to ensure that no leg will show between the trouser leg and sock when seated.

• A white silk scarf is an optional but traditional accessory.