long sleeve black dress short Gracie Mesh Sequin / 7 Stunning rhinestone embellishments on the collar Princess Polly Women's Best Interest

A tried-and-true combo that resonates no matter the dress or shoe

While a black bow tie is, strictly speaking, the only appropriate color, you could get away with one that matches your jacket or tuxedo, or one with a pattern for some visual interest

Consider this your guide to decoding the black-tie dress code once and for all on your party invites this season: What does black tie actually mean

I threw on a beige baseball cap and matching beige socks (like a little sandwich) and then I did the socks and crocs thing

RECOMMENDED Over-the-calf Black Silk Socks 75% silk, 25% cotton socks hand-finished in Italy, designed to never sag and to always appear elegant thanks to their over-the-calf design