Wedding Etiquette Q&A: "What's the difference between tuxedo, black tie, and formal?"

Q: I'm confused. What’s the difference between tuxedo, black tie, and formal?

A: Good question. Let's start with "formal" which dictates a more dressed-up look for both men and women. In other words, men wear tuxedos and women wear a cocktail or longer-length dress. The traditional "tuxedo" is a single- or doublebreasted jacket with satin lapels that's paired with formal trousers (those with a satin side stripe on the pant legs). You'll find tuxedos available in a range of colors, from white and ivory to navy, grey, and black. "Black tie," used for occasions that start after 6 p.m., dictates that men wear a tuxedo and women a cocktail-style or longer-length dress appropriate for a more formal celebration.

—Mary Clarke