For every formal event, the tuxedo is a remarkable statement depicting elegance, sophistication, and timeless style. Originating in 1865, a formal lounge suit without the fancy trimmings of the traditional tailcoat was designed especially for the fashionable Prince Edward VII. Since then, tuxedos have evolved from simple evening jackets into a symbol of class and style, carrying the legacy of refinement into the present day.
From timeless classics to bold choices, tuxedos have reserved a special place in the male wardrobe. However, with so many styles, cuts, and details, one gets confused when selecting the perfect tuxedo. This ultimate guide will provide a detailed insight into various types according to different body types and personal styles. So, keep reading.
What is a Tuxedo?
Before diving into the types, it is important to understand what a tuxedo is and its basics. A tuxedo is a formal attire worn by men. It can be identified by satin or grosgrain facings on the jacket's lapels and buttons and a similar stripe along the outseam of the trousers.
The Difference Between a Tuxedo and a Suit
What sets a tuxedo apart from a suit is the satin detailing usually found in the lapel, buttons, or a stripe down the pants. It is formal wear reserved for evening events requiring black tie attire, such as weddings, galas, or formal dinners. Tuxedos are pricier, starting from 400$. However, rental options are easily available.
Suits are casual due to the absence of satin details. They consist of a traditional jacket and trousers made of fabrics like linen or flannel. Suits are more suitable for semi-formal meetings and casual occasions. They usually come in an affordable price range.
Basics of a Tuxedo
- Jacket with satin or silk lapels in peaked or shawl style
- Trousers with a satin or silk stripe running down the side
- Shirt made of cotton or blend with a pleated front, French cuffs, and a collar.
- Bow Tie a black silk one
- Accessories (cummerbund, waistcoat, cufflinks, leather shoes)
Different Types of Tuxedos
Classic Tuxedo
The classic tuxedo is the most original and traditional type of tuxedo. The black wool jacket with satin lapels and trim is a symbol of timeless sophistication. It is accompanied by a black trouser with a matching satin stripe down each leg. The white shirt has a pleated or bib front with French cuffs. It also features elements like a single-breasted jacked with elegant shawl or peak lapels. Styled with a black bowtie, complete the look.
It is ideal for formal evening events like weddings, galas, or high-profile events. When it comes to styling, accessories like a black waistcoat or a cummerbund add a touch of refinement. Go for shoes that don’t clash with the main attire, therefore, go with patent leather shoes for a refined look.
Shawl Collar Tuxedo
The shawl-collar tuxedo is a sophisticated choice for formal occasions. It is known as James Bond's famous style as it became his style statement in his movies. Its defining feature is the sleek, rounded, continuous lapel that gracefully transitions from the collar to the front closure. The black wool jacket with satin facings along the collar, a crisp white dress shirt, and a black bow tie create a stylish and elegant look. The patent leather shoes complete the look.
Shawl lapels are less formal but a go-to style for black-tie events. Adding a double-breasted vest gives an uber-chic look. For extra elegance, add cufflinks, a dress watch, and a discreet lapel pin.
Peak Lapel Tuxedo
The peak lapel studio is a classic but fashionable choice for formal occasions. Its distinguishing feature is the V-shaped, upward-pointing lapel and outward-facing collar. The single-breasted tuxedo jacket enhances its formal appearance. It pairs well with a white dress shirt, black bow tie, and patent leather shoes.
The wide neck collar and pointed ends enhance your silhouette, making you look slimmer and taller and leaving a lasting, stylish impression. If you want to have a more confident and impactful look at formal occasions, you can make a bold choice by going with a double-breasted peak lapel suit.
Notch Lapel Tuxedo
The notch lapel tuxedo is a versatile option that blends traditional and modern styles. It features a small notch where the jacket meets the lapel and offers a relaxed and modern vibe. Notch lapel has a more casual use, and it is suitable for both formal and semi-formal events. Do not wear at formal black tie events, rather, go with a peak or shawl lapel.
Ensure the tuxedo is well-tailored to fit your body perfectly. A tailored fit enhances the overall look and adds to the sophistication. For added formality, wear a black cummerbund or waistcoat. Moreover, polished black patent leather shoes are ideal for a formal look.
Double-Breasted Tuxedo
A double-breasted tuxedo is a stylish choice for formal occasions. This tux style has been famous among 80’s Wall Street brokers and made a comeback in 2023. It features material at the front of the jacket that overlaps, displaying two rows of buttons when fastened. This design highlights the shoulders, making the wearer more impactful.
For styling a double-breasted tux, you can add a pocket square in a coordinating color (white or black) in the breast pocket. Keep the look minimal and avoid additional accessories. However, a classic dress watch can add a subtle touch of style to the look.
Slim Fit Tuxedo
A well-tailored slim-fit tuxedo offers a sleek and modern silhouette for special occasions. The jacket cut slimmer through the chest and waist with narrow, well-defined shoulders. It also features satin facings on the lapels, which can be notch, peak, or shawl-style. The trousers are slim through the thighs and tapered towards the ankles, typically with a satin stripe for formal occasions.
It is Ideal for modern weddings, black-tie events, galas, formal dinners, and award ceremonies. For a sophisticated look, the fit is perfect without being too tight. Keep the accessories minimal and modern.
Velvet Tuxedo
Tuxedos made of super soft velvet add rich texture to your looks. The matching dinner jacket and suit trousers are both made from velvet fabric. Velvet tuxedos come in classic black and navy colors to bold shades like burgundy, emerald green, and even purple or pink.
In winter, a velvet tux keeps the wearer warm as it is quite heavy. However, while wearing the velvet jacket, it appears as light as wool. It is perfect for black-tie events, weddings, or any special occasion.
White Tuxedo
A white tuxedo is a stylish choice for formal occasions, especially in warmer climates. It doesn’t feature a satin lapel, which is why it is a unique type of tux. However, if you choose to have a lapel in the white jacket, make sure it is black. It consists of an off-white dinner jacket paired with black pants. You can also choose white trousers for a monochromatic look. A white tuxedo depicts a sense of luxury and style. Simple cufflinks, a classic dress watch, and a white pocket square can add refined details without overdoing it.
Colored Tuxedos
Colored tuxedos are perfect for those who don’t want to blend in the crowd and want to make a bold statement. It offers a refreshing twist on traditional black-and-white formalwear. They come in milder hues to bold ones. Shades like navy, burgundy, emerald green, and even lighter pastels are preferred for a more striking appearance.
The jacket has a satin lapel in notch, peak, or shawl. Pairing a colored tuxedo with complementary trousers, a crisp dress shirt, and a pocket square will show style and individual expression.
How to Choose the Right Tuxedo Type
Choosing the right tuxedo begins with understanding the unique preferences and needs of the wearer.
Occasion
Before selecting anything, consider the formality level of the event for which the tuxedo is required. For formal events that call for black-tie suiting, like weddings, galas, award ceremonies, and high-society dinners, a classic tuxedo never goes wrong. Meanwhile, for semi-formal events, you can get creative with styles and colors.
Fit and Body type
Different types of tuxedos fit every body type differently. The right fit can make or break your look. Pay attention to details like sleeve length, shoulder width, and trouser length. A well-fitted tuxedo will complement your body shape. Peak-label tuxedo and slim-fit tuxedo makes you look slimmer and taller. If you have an athletic body, classic or modern fit tuxedos with structured shoulders and a tapered waist will complement your body structure.
Lapel choice
Lapels are the most significant factor that defines the tuxedo style. For formal wear, peak lapels, and rounded shawl lapels depict elegance. While in semi-formal tuxedos, notch lapels add a contemporary touch. Peak lapels complement wearers with broad chests and shoulders while for leaner bodies, shawl lapels are more suitable.
Fabric
When selecting a tuxedo, one must look for the fabric and color that will suit one's personal style and body. In tuxedos, wool is the popular choice of fabric. Linen and cotton also add a touch of coolness in summer. Meanwhile, in winter, velvet tuxedos can add warmth and versatility.
Pricing
Tuxedos are generally pricier than suits. You have the option to customize your tux according to your style, or you can also go for off-the-rack options for affordability. Customized tuxedos ensure a personalized and precise fit that enhances comfort and appearance. While off-the-rack options are affordable and readily available for immediate purchase or rental, offering convenience for last-minute needs or standard sizes.
Customization option
Tuxedos are a symbol of timeless elegance but it is also a way of expressing oneself. Made-to-order manufacturers like Kutetailor offer customization options according to the exact measurements, ensuring a flawless fit that enhances your silhouette and comfort. They provide the option to select fabric, color, lapel style, buttons, etc. according to one's liking.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer classic black tie elegance or opt for a bolder statement with colored or velvet options, this ultimate guide will help you leave a lasting impression. Whether you choose a custom-tailored fit or the convenience of off-the-rack styles, the key is selecting a tuxedo that fits perfectly and matches the event's formality. Small details like accessories, shoes, shirt styles, etc. can help you to achieve a timeless look.
FAQ
1. What is the most formal tuxedo?
The most formal tuxedo is typically considered to be the classic black tuxedo with a black satin or grosgrain peak or shawl lapel. Moreover, double-breasted tuxedos demonstrate a sense of formality making them suitable for formal occasions.
2. What tuxedo does James Bond wear?
Shawl Collar Tuxedo is worn by Pierce Brosnan in all his James Bond movies. This style of tuxedo is known as the James Bond style tuxedo.
3. Why is a tuxedo so expensive?
Tuxedos are made of premium fabrics like satin and silk. These luxury fabrics are expensive, hence increasing the price of the tuxedo. Moreover, the craftsmanship and effort that go into the level of detail used in stitching a tuxedo increase the cost.