Being invited to formal events such as weddings, galas, Oscars, or your own wedding (you don’t need an invitation for that) is exciting as you get to wear a tuxedo and look sharp. However, tuxedos aren’t only about bowties and black suits as they involve more attention to detail to rock the look completely. You need to look fancy by paying attention to every part of your suit and doing it the right way. Different tuxedo styles are appropriate for different occasions and you must know the difference to dress accordingly. Here’s what you need to know about tuxedo styles.
Tuxedo Jacket Styles
The details make the difference when choosing a tuxedo jacket. Lapels, fabric, colors, and button styles will determine if your tuxedo is appropriate for the event.
Lapels Styles
Lapels have three main styles: notch, shawl, and peak, keeping into consideration that they should be covered in silk. Notch lapels are the standard in men’s suits and tuxedos which makes them more casual than other lapel types. They are suitable for most types of events but avoid them if you’re going to an exceptionally formal black tie event.
Shawl collars are recognized for their rounded shape and they are mostly used in tuxedos and dinner jackets. You can go to any event wearing a jacket with shawl lapels as it depends on your personal style. Peak lapels are the trademark of highly formal and traditional garments. They are a statement piece which makes them more formal than notch lapels. These lapels will make you look taller and slimmer while preserving the formal look, and they are perfect for any black tie event.
Single-Breasted Vs. Double-Breasted Jackets
The main difference is that single-breasted jackets have one vertical line of buttons while double-breasted jackets have two vertical rows. Single-breasted jackets are the most common in men’s fashion when it comes to suits and tuxedos. Double-breasted jackets have come in and out of popularity since the 80s but it has been popular for the last couple of years. Double-breasted jackets give a more classic look than their counterpart which make them more formal. Dress according to what you feel suits you more as both are acceptable.
Tuxedo Colors
When we think of tuxedos, black is what comes to our minds first. While it’s the safest choice, it’s not the only choice as you can up your game with other colors. White tuxedos appear in events with “summary” vibes while midnight blue and blue are excellent for a wedding tuxedo as they make the groom stand out from the rest of the attendees. Depending on the event, you can go with unusual colors or patterns such as gingham, tartan, and bright colors.
Tuxedo Shirt Styles
You might think that there is nothing to consider while choosing a white shirt for your tuxedo, but you’ll be wrong as you need to think about the collar, bib, placket, and cuffs. When it comes to collars, you have two options which are wing tip and spread collars. The wing tip collar is meant to be worn with a bow tie and a tuxedo which makes it more formal than spread collars. If you’re aiming for a casual look, go for the spread collars.
Your shirt can be plain or have a panel which is called a bib. The shirt bibs ensure that your shirt shows only white under the jacket as see-through shirts don’t look great for formal events. The shirt plackets are how and where the buttonholes are situated in your shirt. The traditional placket is the front placket where the fabric is folded over and sewn. Placket shirts can go both formal and casual while covered plackets lean to formal events more.
If you’ll wear cufflinks, opt for shirts with french cuffs. These shirts are perfect for the most formal events like your wedding.
Other Accessories
When you choose a tie for your tuxedo, bow ties are suitable for really formal or strictly black tie events, while a necktie can work for any other event. Adding a low-cut vest or cummerbund will give your look elegance and freshness but you can always go without any of them. Stay simple when choosing shoes for your tuxedo as they just complement the look and they shouldn’t be a statement piece.
These seemingly insignificant details can transform your look from acceptable to amazing. Put thought into your whole attire, and make every piece go well with the rest of the outfit. Wear colors that complement your eye colors, hair, and skin to have an outstanding look that will make you stand out from the rest.
