Black tie if you don't do black tie

[niminypiminy]

So, I have a party to go to that has 'black tie' on the invitation.

I just don't do the kind of dresses that I usually see linked to in threads about black tie dressing. I'm more of a severe Cos/this season Whistles/Toast, slightly androgynous, plain clothes type of person.

I don't want to spend loads of money on something I'm only going to wear once. I'd rather invest in things I wear every day. Can trousers be black tie? Jumpsuit? I'm probably over-thinking this, I know, but ideas would be very welcome.

smoking jackets

Niminy I have a pair of silky pajama style trousers that I wear with a black velvet jacket. It's fab - you basically wear your pajamas to a party but look great

I'm sure old dmbl40 was showing some great ones from... (Drumroll) m&s. No seriously, they almost have me converted and I'm scared of jumpsuits.

Really like the Winser pair too! I love wearing white or cream to a party where everyone else is in black and gray!

I have often worn jumpsuits to black tie events. The Winser trousers look lovely - I'd wear them!

You could wear a sleeveless jumpsuit with a fine-textured top underneath for sleeves. It could be matching black, black lace, or contrasting and matched to shoes - silver, maybe.

I'd still go for an actual suit if you can find one you like, as you'll get a lot of wear out of both trousers & jacket :)

remind edge me of this look love the jumpsuit ....

Apologies! Autocorrect.... Reminded me of this look ....

Jackets:
Phase 8 peplum tux might go with their jumpsuit, depending on your shape.
Urban Outfitters velvet drape would need cigarette legs, and time to ship from the US.

Relaxed jumpsuit with sleeves Phase 8 again.

I must stop imaginary shopping now

I need to go to some actual shops and try on some actual clothes I think. Not that that's stopped me doing quite a bit of imaginary shopping

Enjoy yourself :) Hope you'll post your choice! I'm not nosy.