Black tie optional for men?

[ellipses84]

We have a large, black tie optional holiday party to attend. I talked to one of the organizers and they look at it as a great chance to dress up if you want to, but they don't want a "black tie" requirement to deter people from attending. It will be a creative, fashionable crowd, so I expect to see a wide variety of attire. Think trendy red carpet looks more than traditional black tie. DH is going to wear a nice black suit, because it fits him well and I think it will look better than a rented tux. I'm wearing a navy evening gown. What accessories should he wear with his suit? Should he still do the tuxedo look, with pleated shirt, cummerbund and bowtie? Vest and regular tie? He owns a flat front tux shirt and cufflinks. We never go to events like this and I need help!

[LoveTrains]

I would just have your H wear a regular white dress shirt with a black regular tie. I think tux type shirt and accoutrements will seem out of place with the regular suit.

[MixedBerryJam]

Nov 23, 2014 12:24:35 GMT -5 LoveTrains said:

I would just have your H wear a regular white dress shirt with a black regular tie. I think tux type shirt and accoutrements will seem out of place with the regular suit.

Disagree with the bolded. If it's a holiday party I'd go with the black suit he has on hand, plain white shirt, and maybe a pop of color with the tie and pocket square. Black suit/black tie does not scream "trendy red carpet" to me. ETA I'd stay away from the cumberbund, though. I think that'd look silly with a regular suit. And I think a colored vest would look too weddingy.

[ellipses84]

I agree the cummerbund seems silly. His suit looks like a lot of tuxedos, just without the satin trim and I've def. seen it done with vests for weddings. Just wanted to make sure he wouldn't be underdressed with a just a tie and flat front shirt. The pocket square is a good idea.

[hbomdiggity]

normal dress shirt, but with french cuffs (and links). A black tie is not necessary, I like the idea of something more festive.