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By Ryan Roschke

The black tie dress code is a style of formal dress that has been around for centuries. With that kind of track record, it’s hard not to rack up a few rules, right? Well, we’ve taken the liberty of compiling a short list of “commandments” to help you get on track. Whether you’re a stickler for details or you’re determined to go rogue, it’s always nice to know what’s what.

	Thou shalt not swim in thine clothing. Find thyself a tailor for alterations.
	Thou shalt always button the middle button, sometimes the top button, and ne’er the bottom button on thine jacket.
	Thou shalt not adhere to a specific style of vent, although a double vent renders itself trendy and flattering.
	Thou shalt find better salvation in bowties, especially with tuxedos. Longer ties are also permitted for thee, however, when the occasion is appropriate.
	Thou shalt button every button on thine shirt, including thine forearm and collar buttons.
	Thou shalt realize that matching the metal in the cufflinks, belt buckle and shoe buckles is not required, but applauded and rewarded.
	Thou shalt ne’er covet suspenders and a belt at the same time.
	Thou shalt always pair a black belt with black shoes and a brown belt with brown shoes. To mix and match is a sin.
	Thou shalt not wear square-toed shoes, for they are an abomination.
	Thou shalt always wear socks, and they shalt ne’er be white.