Black tie formal actually comes somewhere between "Black Tie Optional" and a strict "Black Tie" dress code. Please see the helpful summaries below of what that actually entails. And have fun with it! Our intention is for you to enjoy the excuse to dress up more than we commonly have opportunity. If this is confusing or stressful to you, feel free to reach out with questions! For the Men: Men have the option of wearing a tuxedo or a formal dark suit, white shirt, and conservative tie. For the Women: Women have the choice between a floor-length gown or a fancy cocktail dress. Most dress code guides will tell you to stick to dark colors and jewel tones, but as this is a summer wedding, lighter colors are perfectly fine. (...though probably not white. You may want to avoid that.) We hope this helps answer your questions, and can't wait to party with you all!