A Black Tie Dress Code Sounds Intimidating. It Doesn't Have to Be.

Since the 19th Century in the resort town of Tuxedo Park, the tux has been the key component of formalwear. It's similar to a suit, but with a couple important differences: satin or grosgrain lapels and trouser stripes that contrast with the base fabric, and killer buttons (usually satin like the lapel). Tuxes are typically black, but they don't have to be. A traditional tux is one of the easy options—but still one of many, as you'll see ahead.

Ah, the shawl-collar tux. No notches. No peaks. Just one smooth, oblong satin lapel. It's perfectly acceptable at all black-tie events (as is midnight blue instead of black) and has figured prominently on the red carpet in recent years. Plus it's got that very black-tie-appropriate James Bond vibe.

Tuxedo shirts (or formal or dinner shirts) have come a long way from their original, extremely starched state. Still, the front panel (the part you see from under the jacket) comes with an extra panel of cotton for added opacity, sometimes with pleats. Or, if you're really bold—or just arrived from 1976—ruffles.

Shifts in black tie looks are minimal, but really come down to personal preference. For example, some tuxedo shirts have buttons hidden, while others (like this from Suitsupply) have room for formal studs. 

Black formal shirts can be hard sell, but there's no doubt that it fits a certain kind of style. Jon Bernthal, for example, might just change your mind. 

For black-tie occasions, it's standard to wear patent leather shoes. Most common are black patent leather oxfords, although in pinch you can get away with highly polished black calfskin lace-ups. Just make sure there's no brogueing. A wingtip is a sure sign that you don't know what you're doing when it comes to black tie.

Another option, if you fancy yourself a true gentleman, is patent leather pumps (also known as opera slippers). These are technically the more traditional black-tie footwear, and anyone who knows anything about sartorial formalities will appreciate the effort. Plus, they look seriously cool. Feel free to wear them with or without the grosgrain bow up front.

Of course, if you're looking for the most baller move, the answer is velvet slippers. For a time, only the host was supposed to wear them. Now you can wear a pair to anyone's house you damn well please. And many designers will create custom embroidery for you, which is a great way to show some personality in a sea of penguin suits.

If you're the truly fashion-forward type, the thick sole and graphic print make these about as edgy as black tie can. Wear 'em like you mean it. 

For a pocket square there is one option, and one option only: white silk. This is black tie, which means no exploding breast pockets of personality.

$19.00

It's okay to wear a pre-tied bow tie. But a man should know how to tie his own, eventually. It's a relatively simple procedure once you get the hang of it—like tying your shoelaces. Besides, the imperfection of a self-tied bow tie actually looks more stylish than a perfectly tied one.

Another way to shoe some edge—a dark, jewel-toned velvet bow tie. 

First used by English officers as an easy alternative to the waistcoat, the cummerbund has become an essential piece. It creates a smooth line at your belly, it keeps your shirt tucked in, it looks damn fine with a bow tie, and it catches crumbs. Though a lot of guys don't wear them anymore, true black tie calls for either a cummerbund or a vest (unless you're wearing a double-breasted tux). No shirt should be visible beneath the button of your dinner jacket.

After anchoring them in the slots of your shirt, cufflinks act just like buttons. Just don't forget to take them out before sending the shirt to the cleaners.

Formality means keeping your outfit clean, both literally and figuratively. Too many details and you'll overwhelm the look. If you're going to go for a watch, keep it low-key. 

And the final finishing touch? A stud set. (Assuming you don't have a covered-placket shirt, of course.) It ups the formality of your shirt, offering something a little more black-tie appropriate than standard buttons.