A tuxedo is a piece of clothing that is evergreen in formal events. It’s just not an outfit but an emotion. Tuxedos are mostly for formal events but in modern days you can give your own touch to it. By choosing bolder colors or patterned tuxedos you can look trendy.
Most of the people are puzzled about how to wear a tuxedo. As it is not frequent to have formal events on a daily basis. So wearing a tuxedo needs to be learned with proper guidance. Tuxedos are great for classic attire and are on trend with colorful options.
This guide will help you to get the right guidance about tuxedos. Be it any formal event such as black-tie event, wedding or formal gathering, if you know details given below, it will definitely make a difference.
What is a Tuxedo?
First let’s know about tuxedos. A tuxedo is a formal attire, specially for black-tie events, weddings, gala etc. It is known for elegance and satin designs. Unlike any other suit, it has some different features.
It has satin or grosgrain lapels and satin striped trousers matching up with lapel material. It is traditionally worn with a bow tie, though other formal neckwear can be used. Usually a formal dress shirt is used which is typically white. With a pleated front, french cuffs or spread collar.
You can opt for accessories such as a cummerband or waistcoat. For a single-breasted or double breasted Jacket of a tuxedo, the style varies.
The most common one is a single-breasted jacket. The jackets have only one or two buttons for a minimalist look. You can wear it with a tuxedo trouser and sleek, shiny shoes to complete the look.
Difference Between Tuxedo and Suit
What separates a tuxedo from a suit are the following:
- Tuxedos have satin or grosgrain on the lapels, buttons and often a stripe down to the trouser. But suits are entirely made with the same fabrics.
- Tuxedos are mostly worn for formal occasions like black-tie events, weddings, galas and award functions, on the other hand suits are versatile in nature, can be worn in different events, including casual parties, office wear etc.
- Tuxedos are usually worn with a bow tie and suits can be worn with a necktie but bow ties can also be worn, as it is more flexible with suits.
- Suits have various shirt and collar options but tuxedos are typically worn with formal shirts, featuring pleated front or french cuffs.
- When it comes to footwear, suits are very versatile and can be worn with a variety of shoes but tuxedos are mostly worn with black patent leather shoes.
How To Wear A Tuxedo
Choosing the right tuxedo can be very crucial. As it needs many things in account. First you need to know how formal the event is. Then according to that, dress codes, seasons can be considered.
Thus you may proceed. Then you need to consider a few more things such as fit and style, fabrics and colors. Find the details down below.
Fit and Style
Classic Fit vs. Slim Fit: If you want more room for breathing and a relaxed and comfortable look, then class fit is great. It has a looser cut. On the other hand, A slim fit tuxedo works in more modern space. It has a closer cut that gives a sharp and stylish look.
Single-Breasted vs. Double-Breasted Jackets: A single-breasted jacket has a clean, simple design with just one row of buttons. It is the most widely used style. A double-breasted jacket looks more professional and structured since it has two rows of buttons.
Fabric Selection
Common Materials: Tuxedos are commonly made from fabrics like wool, velvet and silk. Though wool is the most widely used fabric. It works well for any season. Velvet is more common in fall adding a rich and soft texture. But on the lapels, satin or silk materials are used.
Consideration for Season and Climate: Before selecting a fabric, make sure you are matching it with weather. Wool works all the year but you may choose it for fall and lighter fabrics like linen for warm weather.
Color Options
Traditional Colors: If you want a tuxedo evergreen and well for all the formal events, you may choose traditional colors like black, navy blue etc. They are mostly classic colors. These tuxedos are best for black-tie events, or formal weddings, galas, or any formal gatherings.
Modern Variations: If you are someone who wants to stand out from the crowd, then modern bold colors are the right choices for you. Burgundy, dark green, light pink tuxedos are quite famous if you want to look stylish.
Also white tuxedos are such options for both formal and casual events. Select your perfect tuxedo according to your taste.
When To Wear A Tuxedo
Tuxedos are mostly for formal events. But one can also wear it at different casual parties with bolder color choices. It is up to your taste. But there are some events when tuxedos are essential and it will never go out of style.
Black tie events are the most common occasion for wearing a tuxedo. These formal gatherings are usually held in the evening. Tuxedos are also best for fancy dinners, galas, award ceremonies and so on.
If you want to take up a classic choice for your wedding, then going with a tuxedo would be the best choice, especially if the dress code is all black. Along with the groom, groomsmen also wear tuxedos to maintain the formal look of the event.
Another event for tuxedos would be formal dances like ball, parties like prom where the ambience of the event wants the men to look their best. Thus tuxedos plays the most important part for men to look polished and formal.
Essential Components of a Tuxedo
Once you know the essential parts of a tuxedo, then it will be quite easy for you to know how and when you can wear it.
The Jacket
The most important feature of the tuxedo is the jacket. Usually, the lapels (collar portion) are covered with satin or another shiny material.
The jacket has two button rows on the double-breasted version and one row on the single-breasted version. It should fit comfortably—neither too tight nor too loose.
The Trousers
Tuxedo pants are formal pants that go with the jacket. They frequently feature a satin stripe running down the side that matches the jacket's lapels.
Trousers don’t have belt loops; instead, they are held up by suspenders or side adjusters to keep them looking clean and smooth.
The Dress Shirt
Typically, a white dress shirt is paired with a tuxedo. It can have a front pleat to give it some texture. The shirt must feature French cuffs, meaning that the sleeves cannot be closed without cufflinks.
The Bow Tie
The traditional neckpiece for a tuxedo is a bow tie. Usually black, it reflects the satin details on the jacket. The tuxedo style is completed with the bow tie, which provides an elegant finish. Although pre-tied bow ties are available, self-tied bow ties are thought to be more elegant and classic.
Accessories to Complete the Look
You must choose your accessories carefully. Because accessories complete the look of a tuxedo.
Cummerbund or Waistcoat
A broad, pleated belt of fabric worn around the waist is called a cummerbund. It looks nice and helps conceal the waistband of your pants.
An additional layer beneath your jacket can be added with a waistcoat or vest. While both are excellent for putting a polished touch on things, you typically choose one over the other.
Shoes and Socks
The ideal shoes for a tuxedo are black patent leather shoes. They complement the tuxedo's elegance with their formality and shine. Choose thin, black dress socks for your socks. When you sit down, they need to be long enough to cover your skin.
Cufflinks and Studs
Little, elegant hooks for your dress shirt's cuffs are called cufflinks. They provide a little sparkle and take the place of standard buttons.
Similar to buttons on the front of your shirt, studs are used instead. Both should be modest and stylistically complementary, usually in shades of black, silver, or gold.
Pocket Square
A pocket square is a little piece of cloth that is tucked into your tuxedo jacket's breast pocket. Usually, it's white or coordinates with your bow tie. Putting it in your pocket after carefully folding it gives your ensemble a polished, final touch.
Special Tips for Different Occasions
You have already learnt different parts of a tuxedo, when to wear it etc, but there are some hidden and special tips you must learn. Thus, for you, wearing a tuxedo will never be difficult and you will get it right each time. Learn the special tips.
Black Tie Events
If it is a black-tie event, just stick to the classic; a black or midnight blue tuxedo, a white dress shirt with French cuffs, and a black bow tie. Keep accessories minimal and polished.
Do not experiment with other stuff like color or pattern. Keep it simple or as it is. And make sure you wear the black patent leather shoes. Avoid breaking the formal tone in any way.
Weddings
For a wedding, first you need to know the theme and formality of the event. If it is purely formal with black-tie dress code then wearing the classic is a must. Again, if it is less formal, you can choose to do color experiments with your bow ties and even with your tuxedo.
But make sure as a groom, you stand out. Do not overshadow the groom. Bolder colors or patterns can also be chosen to add modern touch.
Proms and Parties
Proms and parties can be the place where you can toy with your ideas. It is less formal or sometimes casual. Here experiment with different colors, patterns, accessories etc. Just be relaxed and comfortable with what you have got.
A colored tuxedo jacket, such as burgundy or white, can make a statement. Pair it with a fun bow tie or pocket square that reflects your personality. Since proms are less formal, you can also consider wearing stylish loafers instead of classic patent leather shoes.
Conclusion
Tuxedos are formal outfits, and must be worn in black-tie events, weddings and formal occasions. This makes a man look polished and refined and matched with the theme of the event. So knowing how to wear a tuxedo is essential.
Through this guide, you will learn all the important aspects of tuxedos. We made sure to give better ideas about different parts of a tuxedo, when to wear one, special tips and so on. This guide can be your savior.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Wear A Black Tuxedo To A Non-black Tie Event?
Yes, you can wear a black tuxedo to a non-black tie event. It depends on the formality of the occasion. If the event is semi-formal or cocktail attire, consider a dark suit instead. Understand the dress code first to choose the right suit for your event night.
2. What Color Shirt Should I Wear With A Black Tuxedo?
You can wear a white shirt which is the most classic option with a black tuxedo. For any formal event, this would be your go to outfit. But if it is semi-formal or casual, you can opt for bolder options such as burgundy, olive green, or a shirt with pleated front or a plain front.
3. Is It Okay To Wear A Patterned Tuxedo?
Yes, it’s okay to wear a patterned tuxedo. Patterns like subtle checks, paisley, or jacquard can add personality to your look. However, ensure the pattern is elegant and not too bold, as it should still maintain a formal appearance. Because tuxedos are mostly for formal events.
4. Can I Wear Sneakers With A Tuxedo?
For formal events, it is usually advised not to wear shoes with a tuxedo, as this can lessen its elegance. However, for more casual occasions, you can wear a tuxedo with sleek, simple shoes in black or white to create a modern and stylish look. Always check the dress code before thinking about wearing sneakers to any event.
5. Can I Wear A Colored Shirt With A Tuxedo?
Yes, you can definitely wear a colored shirt with a tuxedo. White shirt is a more formal choice but choosing colorful options is bold. Burgundy, green, dark brown etc are some of the colors that can be worn with a tuxedo.
6. What Is The Difference Between A Tuxedo And A Dinner Jacket?
A tuxedo is a full formal outfit with a matching jacket and trousers, usually black or dark, with satin details. A dinner jacket is just the jacket, often in a different color or pattern, and is worn with formal trousers. The tuxedo is more traditional, while the dinner jacket allows more style choices.
