By Temitope Ojo

When the warning “Black Tie” invitation arrives at your door, do you wear a short dress or a long gown?

Here are a few formal wear etiquette tips to keep in mind for your next black tie event.

Always be mindful of your hosts’ desires and anticipate what their vision is for their dinner, dance, fundraiser, wedding, whatever. What does black tie mean to your host—what does it look like to them?

It is a night for you to look your most gorgeous! Embrace it and have fun. Wear a long formal gown or a shorter fancy cocktail dress that is black tie appropriate.

Don’t be afraid to wear black. There’s a reason why everyone else is wearing it.

Always bear in mind: if your host is making a real effort, you need to make one too. And if all else fails, buy a cluster of diamante brooches and pile them on to lapels and necklines – or messy, bed-head hair. Tell everyone they’re heirlooms and prepare to sparkle.

Colours to keep in mind for this season are jewel tones, emerald, ruby, amethyst and, of course, black.

Bring out your best jewels and high heels and jazz it up!

It is risky to overdress. Slits up the side of a long dress and get-down décolletage, proceed with caution.

Dangling earrings shouldn’t drop lower than the jaw, or everything goes slack.