06/28/2026
🤣 **CONFESSION TIME...**
When I first heard the term **"Black Tie"**, I honestly thought it meant I had to go buy a black tie.
That's it.
No fancy dress code knowledge.
No secret etiquette lessons.
No clue.
Just a blue-collar guy trying not to look out of place. 😆
The reality is that a lot of us weren't raised learning the difference between Black Tie, Formal, Cocktail, Business Casual, or any of the other terms that seem obvious to people who grew up around them.
And that's okay.
Nobody is born knowing this stuff.
Freemasonry brings together men from every walk of life. Tradesmen, mechanics, truck drivers, office workers, executives, farmers, first responders, retirees, and everything in between.
Sometimes the newest Brother is more nervous about what he's wearing than he is about the ritual itself.
So I put this chart together because I wish someone had shown me something similar years ago.
If you're ever invited to a Lodge event, banquet, gala, installation, festive board, wedding, or special function and aren't sure what the dress code means, feel free to save this image and use it as a quick reference.
And if you're a seasoned Brother, remember that not everyone grew up with the same experiences.
A little guidance goes a long way.
We've all been the new guy at some point.
And for the record...
If someone tells me "Black Tie" today, I still have to stop myself from asking:
*"Okay... but what colour suit?"* 😂
SMIB 🔷