Black Tie means a bow tie not a black coloured tie

[Spc. Scott]

Just to be clear

I should also note that some events are "Black tie" optional.

If so it would be poor manners for those in formal attire to in anyway shape or form to look down on or think less of those in semi formal attire.

Cheers

Jamie

Jamie nails it here. In my opinion it is far worse for someone to look down on another than it is to be wearing your best and still be under-dressed.