Decoding the Dress Code: Creative Black Tie

Does creative mean painting pink dots on your favorite black tie? Think again.

What It Means: Feel free to try your own interpretation of traditional black tie dress. You can add your own trendy touch or personality to formal wear.

How to Pull It Off: Channel your inner fashionista and pick something traditional with a modern twist.

Ladies: You aren't required to wear a long gown. Mix it up by choosing a knee-length cocktail dress, but make sure to keep it very formal with an evening fabric and preferably a dark color.

Gentlemen: You should probably still wear a tux, however you don't have to stick with the traditional black tie with white shirt. You can forego the tie altogether, or choose to wear a colored or black shirt underneath the jacket.