Solemn, more solemn, most solemn: if you are invited to a grand ball or a big gala, you should follow the white tie dress code. The white tie dress code is known in French as "Cravate Blanche". In German, it also means "large evening suit" and means that the tailcoat is encouraged. The white tie is the most elegant dress code. It is therefore only required at high state receptions or at a pompous reception. The tailcoat is never worn with a tie, but always combined with a white bow tie, which is ideally self-tied. A black or even colored bow tie would be just as much of a faux pas as a tie, regardless of the color. The lady puts on her best evening wear for this dress code.

When it comes to the most elegant dress code, even the lady has little choice. She must opt for a stylish, floor-length evening dress. The dress may traditionally be chosen in black, white or gray and without a pattern. Closed-toe pumps with a heel around six centimetres high are worn to match the dress. The lady wears skin-colored silk stockings under the evening dress - tights are not permitted.

The woman's Jewelry is absolutely genuine and should not be overly lavish. She should also wear subtle evening make-up. Nail polish and lipstick should be in matching colors. Care should be taken to ensure that the shoulders are covered by a stole on arrival.

No Go's: Skirt and blouse, cocktail dress, strikingly patterned evening dress, patterned nylon stockings, fishnet stockings, socks of any kind, open shoes, shoes with heels over eight centimeters, flat shoes without heels, garish disco make-up, heavy perfume, unkempt hands.

The most elegant outfit for a gentleman requires a tailcoat. The jacket of the tailcoat is called a skirt. It is short at the front and long at the back with two points (swallowtail). The lapels of the tailcoat are trimmed in black silk. Although the skirt fits the body, it cannot be buttoned up as the buttons are only decorative. The black tailcoat trousers have two narrow silk stripes on each leg. They have no lapels and end exactly at the floor (if the gentleman is not yet wearing shoes).

The white tie must be accompanied by a white bow tie. A white shirt and a white vest are also required. The shirt has a stand-up collar, over which the white bow tie is ideally tied.

The gentleman wears his pocket watch in his trouser pocket and not in his vest. If he prefers a wrist watch, it should definitely be made of gold. Black men's knee socks are just as obligatory for tailcoats as elegant black patent leather shoes.

No Go's: Black men's suit or tuxedo, tails before 6 p.m., colorful vest with tails, tie or black bow tie with tails, T-shirt, polo shirt, bright socks, visible leg, sneakers, men's sandals, leather boots, wrist watch with leather strap or steel bracelet or headgear other than top hat.

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