What is a black and white affair?

What is a black and white affair?
A 'black and white affair' is traditionally one at which the guests wear black and white only. There are many such 'black & white' charity balls and galas held throughout the year. Most are annual affairs and most are very dressy. Many have themes and encourage the guests in attendance to wear 'dressy festive' black or white ensembles to suit the theme. A tuxedo is not required, nor is a full length gown.

These are not to be confused with 'black tie affairs'. When an invitation reads "Black Tie", it denotes that the affair is a formal one and that men are expected to wear tuxedos and women are expected to wear full length dresses or skirts.



There are also Black & White Balls, dances where everyone is expected to wear only black, white , shades of gray, and a small item of accent color, like a cummerbund or a sash for the ladies.