White tie is the most formal Western dress code, reserved for state banquets, royal ceremonies, and opera galas. Men wear black tailcoat, white waistcoat, white bow tie, and white gloves. Women wear full-length ball gowns. Fabrics: barathea wool for tailcoat, heavy silk satin for evening gloves. Weight and structure are paramount over breathability. Rarely requires climate adaptation as venues are always climate-controlled.