16-05-2025
Wedding guest sparks outrage over 'crazy' outfit choice for black tie dress code
An influencer has been slammed for her take on 'black tie' dress codes for wedding guests - after suggesting a sheer outfit is appropriate attire.
New York influencer Courtney Grow, who often shares her extravagant purchases and fashion advice on social media, is under fire for her risqué recommendation for a black tie dress.
The mom-of-four shared a series of spring fashion finds to her Instagram, along with links to the the items she was posting.
Sharing her favorites, the fashion influencer also posted a dress she recommended for a black tie wedding - with horrified users up in arms over the choice.
'Black tie under $300,' she cheerfully labeled the link to the frock.
The ankle-length Reformation dress, which retails at $298, is not only white, but also sheer, with the models undergarments' clearly visible.
It features adjustable spaghetti straps and covered in celestial objects, boasting embroidered stars and moons with sequins all over it.
While fashion lovers didn't dislike the dress - especially with sheer gowns having a major fashion moment on the red carpet - they argued it was in no way appropriate for a wedding - let alone a black tie dress code.
'Calling a see through fast fashion dress "black tie" is some good s**t,' one user posted to Reddit, along with a snap of her Instagram story.
'This is crazy. Who would wear an off-white see-through fast fashion dress to a black tie wedding?
'I'm sick of the visible underpants trend,' complained another.
'Perfect for when you have a Coachella themed wedding to attend,' joked another.
'A Coachella themed black tie wedding,' joked another.
New York City-based etiquette expert Myka Meier previously told the that, 'a black tie dress code specifically means floor-length gowns.'
'Anything cocktail or tea length (mid calf) is not considered black tie,' she explained.
'A black tie dress code is 6pm onward - anything before 6pm would simply be formal attire, with no tux or gown required,' Myka clarified, adding that the biggest sparkles and boldest jewelry also comes out after the sun goes down.
New York influencer Courtney Grow (seen in a similar dress), who often shares her extravagant purchases and fashion advice on her social media, is under fire for her risqué recommendation for a black tie dress
When it comes to footwear, it's a bit more relaxed, and guests can rock open or closed toe heels.
'Small evening bags or clutches are recommended, as the more formal the event, the smaller the bag,' Myka said.
As for material, opt for silks, tulles, sparkles, and sequins, and stay away from linen or cotton.
'In terms of silhouette, as long as it's floor-length, it's likely appropriate,' Myka said, adding, 'from ball gown to fishtail, anything goes.'
All sorts of tops are acceptable, from strapless to cap sleeves, but she advised: 'Keep in mind it may be a religious event and you want to be cautious about the amount of skin shown to come across respectful.'
'You also never want to upstage the bride with anything too revealing,' Myka warned.
Etiquette expert Jamila Musayeva also told that it's best not to bother the bride if you're not quite sure what to wear.
Jamila said that black tie optional gives women flexibility, but they should 'still aim for an elegant, polished look,' adding, 'a floor-length gown is ideal, but a formal cocktail dress or a pantsuit can also be appropriate.'
'The key is to choose high quality fabrics and keep the outfit refined,' Jamila said, suggesting 'darker tones, like navy, emerald, or black.'
Jamila advised avoiding casual options like short sundresses or anything too revealing.
