Renting a Dress for a White Tie Event in the UK: The Complete Guide
A White Tie event is the most formal dress code in the world — more formal than black tie, and unapologetically glamorous. Many of you get in touch with us to ask for help when you get invited to one. Congratulations… and don’t panic. While buying a formal gown can be expensive, renting a dress for a white tie event in the UK is a smart, stylish, and increasingly popular solution with Girl Meets Dress customers.
In this guide, we explain what white tie really means, outline the official dress code for women, and show you why white tie dress hire in the UK is the perfect option for the most prestigious occasions.
What Is a White Tie Event?
White tie is reserved for the most exclusive, ceremonial, and high-profile events. In the UK — and especially London — these occasions are often steeped in tradition, history, and formality.
Examples of White Tie Events in London
White tie events in London may include:
State banquets at Buckingham Palace
Royal or diplomatic receptions
High-society charity balls
Prestigious opera galas and opening nights
Formal awards dinners hosted by historic institutions
University or civic ceremonial dinners
Searches for white tie dress hire London and rent a white tie gown UK often spike around these events, especially during winter and the London social season.
The White Tie Dress Code for Women
When it comes to white tie, there is very little room for interpretation. The expectation is full evening dress, elevated to its most formal level.
✔️ The Dress
For women, a white tie dress must be:
Floor-length (no exceptions)
Extremely formal in style
Made from luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, velvet, chiffon, or tulle
Popular choices when browsing white tie gown rental UK include:
Classic ball gowns
Elegant A-line or fitted floor-length gowns
Dresses with trains or dramatic volume
Timeless, understated glamour rather than trendy cuts
Midi dresses, cocktail dresses, or high-slit gowns are not appropriate for white tie events.
✔️ Colour & Design
Unlike black tie, white tie allows more freedom in colour — as long as the look remains formal.
Common searches include:
floor length evening gown hire UK, formal dress hire London and luxury gown rental UK
Popular colours include deep jewel tones, black, ivory, navy, emerald, burgundy, and classic neutrals. Embellishments are welcome, but elegance is key.
✔️ Accessories & Styling
White tie is about a complete look, not just the dress:
Jewellery: Statement or heirloom-style pieces work beautifully
Shoes: Formal heels (never sandals or casual styles)
Hair: Polished updos or sleek, styled looks
Outerwear: A formal evening wrap or cloak if needed
Why Rent a Dress for a White Tie Event?
1. White Tie Dresses Are Rarely Reworn
White tie events are uncommon for most people, which is why searches for rent a dress for white tie event UK are so popular. Hiring allows you to wear an extraordinary gown without committing to a once-only purchase.
2. Access to Luxury & Designer Gowns
White tie dress hire UK gives you access to high-end designer evening gowns that meet strict dress code standards — without the four-figure price tag.
3. Sustainable & Practical
Hiring a formal dress is also a more sustainable fashion choice. With professional cleaning included at Girl Meets Dress, dress hire in the UK reduces waste while keeping your look flawless.
How to Choose the Right White Tie Dress to Rent
When renting formal gown hire from Girl Meets Dress, keep these tips in mind:
Book early — white tie gowns are limited and in high demand. Get in touch with our team and we can help narrow down your search, make some suggestions and check the availability for your event date.
Check length carefully (heels included)
Choose timeless over trendy
Confirm delivery and return dates well in advance. Consider using the Girl Meets Dress Advance Try On service which is £30 in total for a few dresses and means you have peace of mind, trying them on ahead of your event.
White Tie Style Without the Stress
A white tie invitation calls for elegance, confidence, and tradition — but that doesn’t mean you need to buy an expensive gown you’ll only wear once. Renting a white tie dress in the UK, especially in London, allows you to meet the highest dress standards while staying practical, stylish, and sustainable.
If you are searching for Girl Meets Dress to hire your White Tie Dress then you could use the following:
white tie dress hire UK, rent a formal gown London, floor length evening dress rental, luxury dress hire UK
…dress rental is the ultimate solution for white tie perfection.