In an article in the September 13, 2007 issue of the Wall Street Journal, Ray A. Smith writes an article about the recent trend of receiving invitations that say either "black tie optional" or "creative black tie". Another term used for these events is "festive black tie". Such description on an invitation can cause confusion-- even to seasoned black tie affair attendees.

I have heard of the "black tie optional" invitation, and write about it in my eBook Success at Your First Black Tie Affair, but "creative black tie" is a new concept to me. To explain the concept, he interviewed the creative design director at Brooks Brothers who explained that the designation of "creative" or "festive" black tie is a signal that the event is supposed to be celebratory and fun, and a cue that while formal attire is still expected, you can go outside the box a bit with creative use of accessories, such as a silk scarf instead of a bowtie, a loud bowtie or bold cuff links.

Personally, I prefer to maintain a conservative appearance at formal events. In my opinion, if the organizers had not meant them to be that way, they would not have planned them as black tie events. Sometimes, I wonder if my opinion is shaped by my residence in New York, which leans to more conservative attire than other areas of the country. What is your opinion? Visit my blog and let me know.

About the Author

Joseph J. Tomaino authors a blog devoted to providing information to those new to attending black tie or other formal functions at http://www.blacktieaffair.info . This article is copyright 2007, but may be republished if contact info is included. He may be contacted at jtomaino@tomainogroup.com.