not knowing what length dress to wear

[Summerblaze]

Been told last minute that me and DH need to attend a black tie event tomorrow night.

I have a very formal dress but is is just above the knee length. Is this acceptable or do I have to wear calf or floor length.

Yes, knee length is Ok for black tie. Full length is only compulsory for white tie events.

...and have a great time.

Who is running the event? Some organisations (eg the military) are sticklers for rules. My personal interpretation is that black tie = covered knees.

It is a business awards ceremony at a local hotel hosted by the local newspaper.

Then that will be fine. I just recall being given a great list of "do's and dont's" before attending my first RAF black tie do with DH

Great. Thanks for that. Now just to decide what to do with my hair.