Black Tie Event Jewelry

Are you gearing up to go to a black tie event? Most people receive a black tie invitation — for a wedding or gala — and aren't sure what to wear or how to accessorize. In this article, we'll run through a quick overview of how the black tie dress code before focusing on accessorizing your look to make your entire outfit pop, so you don't make a fashion faux pas. Here's what you should know about black tie event jewelry.

What Is Black Tie Dress Code?

Let's start at the very beginning. Dress codes are helpful when trying to make sure everyone wears appropriate attire to the event. However, they can be confusing when not everyone understands what is expected in a particular dress code.

Black tie events often include weddings, award ceremonies, milestone birthday parties, and prestigious balls. However, this type of dress isn't the most formal event. White tie is peak formal attire, where floor-length gowns are expected.

For women, black tie attire is "long" attire in evening-appropriate fabric such as velvet, chiffon, silk, or lace. Although a cocktail dress may work if your host or the occasion is most relaxed, the best route is a floor-length dress or trouser suit. Women usually wear black dresses, but patterns and colors work too.

For men, a black tie dress is a tuxedo comprised of a dinner jacket, trousers, formal white shirt, optional waistcoat, cummerbund, bow tie, and traditional black shoes. Although the tuxedo is often black, it can also be a deep midnight blue.

Look at the invitation medium if you're wondering how fancy or "smart" the event will be. If you were invited digitally (via text, Facebook, WhatsApp, email, etc.), you can lean a little toward the relaxed side. However, keep in mind that it's very likely still a floor-length affair. Invitations sent via post typically lean more formal. So, if you see thicker woven stock and calligraphy, don't worry about overdressing.

Black Tie Tips

Before we dive into all the options associated with black tie event jewelry, here are a few things you should know about accessorizing for this type of outfit.

1. Choose pieces that complement your outfit

For black tie events, particular jewelry looks will always work. For example, pearls, diamonds, and subtle colored gemstones set in gold always look elegant. On the other hand, larger hoops, beading bracelets, and layered necklaces may not offer the same sophistication.

2. Go for understated and elegant

You may think that extravagant jewelry is the way to go for a fancy black tie event. However, black tie favors understated and elegant looks. When in doubt, go for a subtle diamond tennis bracelet or string of pearls around your neck instead of a chunkier piece with lots of gems. Avoid tackier statement pieces like a sequin or rhinestone chandelier earrings.

3. Check what's appropriate for the event

Not all events are one-size-fits-all. For example, wedding guests should generally avoid wearing too playful jewelry to weddings that might be a distraction. Thus, what you might wear to a gala jewelry-wise will be different than what you'll wear to a wedding.

Black Tie Event Jewelry

Here are the top pieces of black tie event jewelry that women should consider wearing to an event. Remember that you don't need to wear every single one of these jewelry pieces. You should try to balance it with the outfit you're wearing.

So, if your dress has a high neckline, don't bother with a necklace; instead, opt for bracelets and earrings. Likewise, a statement necklace may be a better fit if there's a plunging neckline and long sleeves.

Black Tie Necklace 

You can't go wrong with a diamond necklace if you're wearing the right neckline. Diamonds are often the go-to stone for black tie jewelry because it's luxurious and elegant. Diamonds will take a formal black dress up a notch and give it something special.

When selecting a diamond necklace, you have a lot of options. You can select any metal color—yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, or sterling silver. You also have several diamond shapes to choose from.

We recommend staying away from pendant necklaces for black tie events. Pearl necklaces are a classic and elegant choice that can be the perfect addition to your neckline.

Simple Black Tie Necklace 

This Curved Diamond Bar Necklace is an excellent choice if you want a necklace that will work with many different outfits. You can also choose to layer it with other necklaces or wear it on its own.

Black Tie Choker Necklace

If you want to look absolutely stunning at a black tie wedding, you should definitely consider wearing a diamond tennis choker. Not only does it add a touch of glamour and elegance to any outfit, but it also has the added benefit of being a timeless piece of jewelry that you can wear forever.

A diamond tennis choker is perfect for any black tie event because it is versatile and packs a punch. It can add a touch of sparkle to a simple black dress or be paired with a more intricate gown to really make a statement. Additionally, the choker style is currently on-trend and is a great way to showcase your fashion sense while still adhering to the black tie dress code.

One of the most significant advantages of investing in a diamond tennis choker is that it is a piece of jewelry you can wear for years. Unlike other accessories that may go out of style, the classic design of a diamond tennis choker ensures that it will always be a fashionable choice. You can wear it to future black tie events, special occasions, or even to dress up a casual outfit. It is a truly timeless piece that will always make you feel elegant and stylish.

Colored necklace

Diamonds are gorgeous, but they are only sometimes the right look for every event. Additionally, there may be times when you want a pop of color or metallic instead of diamonds.

In this case, a gemstone solitaire necklace can be a great swap. Unlike the Curved Diamond Bar Necklace, it often draws a more intense focus to your chest because it has a sole focal point. When wearing a plunging neckline, you may want something that slightly highlights the deep-V more drastically.

We love this pink sapphire necklace, a simple pendant option that adds a pop of color.

 2. Black Tie Earrings

When deciding on your black tie earrings, use the following criteria to determine which you select: attire, hairstyle, other accessories, and colors.

Attire

Consider the length of your earrings according to the outfit you are wearing. If you opt for a strapless gown, drop earrings or dangles are a stellar way to bring attention to your face and fill the space around your neck/chest. If you're wearing sleeves, you should avoid longer earrings as they can compete with the details of your wear. If you're wearing a pantsuit, opt for stud or cluster earrings.

Hairstyle

Your hair should complement your pair of earrings and vice versa. If you opt for a bolder earring choice, pull your hair away from your face (bun, ponytail, etc.), so your earrings can have their moment. If you're going for a gorgeous hair-down style, you can opt for studs and focus on other jewelry items (necklaces, bracelets, etc.).

Other accessories

Earrings can either complement or compete with everything else you're wearing. If you opt for bold earrings, consider opting out of a necklace to ensure you don't overwhelm the eye.

You should also think about the metal tones and coordinate the jewelry you're wearing. Mixing metals is sometimes good, but it can be distracting if you're wearing gold earrings and a silver necklace.

Finally, pairing pieces with similar shapes are another excellent way to bring your look together. If your earrings have round stones, carry over that theme to a necklace.

Black Tie Statement Earrings

You can boldly take your classic look with a little color and personality. Don't be afraid to go with some vibrant accessories to make your look stand out.

Above all, always remember to balance out whatever "bling" you decide to wear. While a black tie dress code certainly lends itself to wearing many beautiful pieces, you don't need to wear every sparkly item you own. If you wear your statement earrings, go for a simple or no necklace and just accessorize with some bangles instead.

Make a colorful impact statement in midnight blue drop earrings.

 3. Black Tie Bracelets

Bracelets are a beautiful way to accessorize for black tie events. Some women like single bracelets, while others prefer bangles. We love this accessory if you're wearing a sleeveless gown or an off-the-shoulder number. It subtly draws attention to your arms, and it can even give someone a hint to look further at your hands if you're wearing rings or holding a pretty clutch.

If you like wearing just one bracelet (instead of multiple bangles that may make noise), this puffed mariner bracelet is a statement piece worth investing in.

4. Black Tie Rings

Rings are a classic jewelry option for black tie event jewelry. They're a simple way to bring attention to your hands. Some rings highlight our hand's delicateness while other chunkier rings are a statement in themselves. They bring a pop of interest and personality to our outfits in an exciting way.

We love a statement ring like this Women's Diamond Signet Ring. Signet rings are often used to display something meaningful or memorable, like initials, crests, coats of arms, or meaningful symbols.

These rings have been popular for centuries—often worn by nobility. If you want a beautiful signet ring with your initials, family crest, or logo, Alexis Jae can make you a customized piece. It's an ideal item to have on hand when accessorizing various black tie event looks.

5. Men's Jewelry For a Black Tie Event

Men attending a black tie event should opt for a classic and elegant look with their jewelry. The most important accessory for a black tie event is a wristwatch. A simple and classic dress watch with a leather strap is a great option that adds a touch of sophistication to a man's attire.

In addition to a watch, men can also wear cufflinks, which are a traditional accessory for formal events. Cufflinks add a subtle touch of personality to a man's outfit and can be simple or more elaborate depending on personal preference. We often help customize classic cufflinks for men.

A tie bar is another accessory that can add a touch of elegance to a man's outfit. It serves a functional and decorative purpose by keeping the tie in place while adding a touch of detail to the outfit.

Finally, men can also wear a lapel pin, a small accessory attached to the lapel of a jacket. Lapel pins can subtly add a pop of color or a unique design to a formal outfit.

Overall, it is important to keep it simple and classic when it comes to jewelry for men at a black tie event. Opt for timeless pieces that add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the outfit while also reflecting personal style.

Final Thoughts

Don't let black tie event jewelry scare you! First, get your outfit down, and then you can accessorize from there. Stick to simple but elegant pieces, and feel free to reach out if you want to create custom go-to pieces for big events like weddings, galas, or award shows.

Our mission at Alexis Jae is to help people skip the middleman and invest in high-quality, ethically sourced jewelry. We only sell fine jewelry (14k or 18k gold) featuring precious or semi-precious stones. Start shopping today and save 50% off traditional retail prices! Book an appointment with us to learn more.