The majority of invitations at the Innholders are to “Black Tie” events but sometimes we use the terms ‘White tie’ or ‘Business Wear’. We are sometimes asked for guidance as to what the dress codes mean. If you are bringing a guest who has not been to a formal event in the City before, you may wish to check that they will be appropriately dressed so that they can relax and feel comfortable at the Hall.
The Innholders’ Company usually wears “White Tie” only if we are expecting royalty or the Lord Mayor as guests. The term ‘evening dress’ may also be used.
For men, this consists of a black tail coat which does not button up, dress trousers with a satin stripe, a stiff white shirt, usually martex faced with a winged collar, and a white martex bow tie, and white waistcoat. Patent black shoes are often worn but not obligatory.
Ladies should wear a long dress, with shoulders covered. Tiaras and long gloves were traditionally worn and may be added should you wish.
Highland Dress is always an acceptable alternative to “White Tie” . Serving or retired services personnel are entitled to wear Mess Kit. Guests from other nations may wear their formal national dress attire.
Orders/decorations are always worn with “White Tie”.
The majority of Innholders dinners are ‘Black Tie’. The term ‘Dinner Jacket’ may also be used.
For men this consists of a black dinner jacket which may be single or double breasted, with or without satin or grosgrain lapels. Dress trousers with satin stripe, a white (only) dress shirt, and a black (only) bowtie. A conservative cummerbund
or black waistcoat may also be worn. Any other colours in shirts or bowties are not encouraged by the Innholders.
Ladies should wear a smart long, or below the knee dress, or skirt, or evening trousers. It is usual at dinner for ladies’ shoulders to be covered, with a pashmina or jacket if necessary.
Highland Dress is always an acceptable alternative to “Black Tie”. Serving or retired services personnel are entitled to wear Mess Kit. Guests from other nations may wear their formal national dress attire.
At Innholders’ Hall, we do not wear miniature medals with “Black Tie”, although other Companies may do so.
When “Lounge Suits” or ‘business wear’ are specified, men should wear a suit or a smart jacket, and tie. Jeans would not usually be appropriate.
For ladies, a smart dress (with sleeves or a jacket) or trousers would be a suitable choice for evening. For daytime events a day dress, around knee length, a trouser suit or skirt and jacket would all be suitable.
Smart Casual events are intended to be less formal but your outfit should still be tidy, clean and smart. You may choose to wear whatever you wish but low cut tops, bare shoulders, short skirts, shorts, scruffy trainers or ripped jeans, worn by men or women, are usually unsuitable attire for Innholders’ functions at the Hall.