When it comes to the classic tuxedo, there are very few things that will go wrong when accumulating your ensemble. However, we here at Tuxedo Warehouse want to make sure that you go out in the proper style. With that in mind, this article will be focused on the basics for a tuxedo. Regardless of the event you might be attending, this information will undoubtedly help make sure that you are prepared for any black tie event.
First, we should discuss and outline what a classic tuxedo will include. Essentially, a traditional tuxedo is typically made up of a a black jacket, a black bow tie, white button-up undershirt, black trousers, cufflinks, and black dress shoes. While this combination might seem simple, the smaller details of each individual aspect allow for room to personalize your tuxedo. Thus, we will continue by discussing each piece of the tuxedo in finer detail.
The Tuxedo Jacket
Since the biggest change that came with the introduction of the tuxedo was the new jacket design, we will begin by exploring the subtle differences that one can find with a tuxedo jacket. The traditional tuxedo jacket tends to be made with black wool; however, over time the “acceptable” colors of the tuxedo have grown to include blue, grey, white, and maroon. Along with this, there are also three distinct styles for the lapels, including the notched lapel, peaked lapel, and shawl lapel.
Originally, the tuxedo featured the notched lapel as the standard, generally found on single-breasted jackets. On the other hand, double-breasted jackets will usually feature the peaked lapel, which is considered the most formal lapel style. Finally, the sleek curve that is known as the shawl lapel, despite originally considered the least formal type of lapel, has grown in popularity over the last century. Along with these three distinct designs, the lapels of a tuxedo will also usually feature satin or grosgrain.
Other than lapels,the tuxedo jacket typically has no vents; however, side vents have become acceptable over time. Furthermore, the number of buttons tends to range from 1-3 depending on whether the jacket is single or double-breasted. Overall, the style of your tuxedo jacket will typically reflect the degree of formality that is required by the event you will be attending.
Despite this, you will never go wrong with any of these tuxedo jacket designs.
Tuxedo Trousers
As previously mentioned, the tuxedo jacket is without a doubt the most essential and detailed aspect of the tuxedo. Regardless, the trousers will always be designed in a way to specifically compliment and match the jacket. Specifically, the tuxedo pants typically have a pinstripe that matches the type of material that the jacket uses for the lapels, which is generally satin or grosgrain.
Bowtie and Shoes
The outerwear of the tuxedo is typically the most complicated part of the ensemble. Despite this, the tuxedo design is only classic if it uses the bowtie. Regardless of any stylistic changes, the bowtie has been one of the main aspects of the tuxedo that has remained essential. Even though the black bowtie has consistently been the most prominent style, as other tuxedo colors have become more popular, the style of bowtie has also grown to include different colors and styles. Along with this, the shoe that is deemed appropriate for a tuxedo will typically be shined and typically have laces that will match the satin or grosgrain that is featured on the lapels. Even though the prominent style has slightly changed in regards to the color and type of bow tie and shoes that should be worn with a tuxedo, the traditional ensemble still stands as the best option.
Accessories
Basic accessories for the tuxedo are generally expected, which tend to include additions such as stylish cufflinks, watches, and pocket squares. While these types of accessories might not have been the most prominent additions for the tuxedo during its beginning debut, they quickly became essential aspects of the tuxedo formal wear. For example, if you were to include a pocket square, you will want to make sure that it either matches or compliments the color and style of your tuxedo. As a way to provide a better illustration, the most common color for a pocket square accessory will generally be a white pocket square, specifically since it will match the most common colors used for a tuxedo. Despite this, modern day tuxedos usually come in more colors than the traditional black, which allows for a wider range of creative accessories.
The Classic Tuxedo
Regardless of the subtle changes that have made the tuxedo what it is today, the basic design of the essential formal wear has relatively remained the same. Therefore, despite what personal changes and additions that you might add, the tuxedo you wear should maintain these basics.