Suit or tuxedo? Answers here.
Words: A. Fozzard
What’s the difference between a suit and a tux? It’s more than just the colour or the addition of a bow-tie.
Below, we unpick the tuxedo and all its parts so you’ll know you’re wearing the right thing next time you get a black-tie invitation.
FIRSTLY, IS IT A TUXEDO OR A DINNER SUIT?
It’s actually just in the name. In the UK we traditionally say dinner jackets,while across the pond they say tuxedos. But now you’ll find it called a tuxedo more often than not.
OK, SO SUIT OR TUX?
Both are pretty smart, right? Yes, but the real difference between a tuxedo and a standard suit is that one is more refined than the other. It comes down to satin – tuxedos and dinner jackets have it, while suit jackets generally don’t. You’ll usually see satin adding elegance to the lapels, buttons and pockets of a tuxedo jacket. The satin is often black, but also appears as the same colour as the jacket in some occasions, like on our navy texture jacket. The main body material can have a slight sheen too, which you don’t normally see on standard suits.
The lapels of a suit and tux are where the lines start to blur. Both evening suit jackets and dinner jackets can have notch and peak lapels, with peak lapels generally standing out as the dressier option. The difference comes with shawl lapels. These are the single pieces of material that sit in an unbroken curve from your collar to your waist, and they’re only seen on tuxedo jackets, like our tailored fit shawl lapel tuxedo.
You’re also more likely to see a single-button fastening on a tux and a two-button fastening on a business suit. It’s because, broadly speaking, the fewer buttons there are on a jacket the more formal it is. Both dinner jackets and suit jackets can be double-breasted, so it’s best to look at the other pointers to decide which side of the fence it sits on.
HOW TO STYLE A TUXEDO THE CLASSIC WAY
For black-tie invitations, you’ve got a dress code to follow. This actually makes styling your tux pretty easy if you want to follow the rules.
The classic partner to your tux is a white dress shirt – it can have either white or black buttons, and will sometimes be pleated down the front. Choose a classic collar, saving wing collars for white-tie, and remember your cufflinks because your shirt will probably have double cuffs too.
Then, add a bow tie(learn how to tie a bow tie here). Play it safe with black, or let it be the talking point of your outfit with something bigger or brighter. Finish off your accessories with a white pocket square in a flat fold or in a neat ruffle. You can also wear a cumme*rbund (the large waist sash associated with tuxes) but it’s not necessary.
Finally, choose a pair of dress shoes in matte or patent leather and give them a good polish the night before.
HOW TO DO BLACK TIE YOUR OWN WAY
Rules are good and all, but we think the best looks exist outside of the dress code. Try a trending jewel-toned jacket like our burgundy velvet. Or flip the monochrome palette with a white dinner jacket worn over a black shirt; it still looks smart but adds a bit of interest to your look.
Something more relaxed more your style? A fine woollen rollneck looks just as refined as a shirt and bow-tie, but is all about comfort.
As a seasoned menswear enthusiast and style connoisseur, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and expertise in the realm of formalwear. Having delved deep into the nuances of men's fashion, particularly the distinction between suits and tuxedos, I'm well-equipped to guide you through the intricacies of these sartorial choices.
Now, let's unravel the intricacies presented in the article about suits and tuxedos:
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Dinner Suit or Tuxedo: The Terminology
- The terms "dinner suit" and "tuxedo" are often used interchangeably, with the primary distinction being regional. In the UK, "dinner jackets" are the norm, while in the United States, the term "tuxedos" is more prevalent.
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The Essential Difference: Refined Elegance
- The core disparity between a suit and a tuxedo lies in the level of refinement. The key distinguishing factor is the presence of satin—tuxedos and dinner jackets incorporate satin detailing on lapels, buttons, and pockets, adding an extra touch of elegance that is typically absent in standard suit jackets.
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Lapel Styles and Fastenings
- Both suits and tuxedos can feature notch and peak lapels, but shawl lapels, which are a single, unbroken curve from collar to waist, are exclusive to tuxedo jackets. Peak lapels are generally considered the dressier option.
- Tuxedos often feature a single-button fastening, contributing to a more formal appearance, while business suits typically have a two-button fastening. The number of buttons correlates with the formality of the jacket.
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Styling a Tuxedo: Classic vs. Personalized Approach
- For black-tie events, adhering to a dress code is essential. A classic pairing involves a white dress shirt with pleats, a classic collar (reserving wing collars for white-tie events), and double cuffs with cufflinks.
- A black bow tie is a safe and traditional choice, though one can experiment with bolder options. Accessories include a white pocket square in a flat fold or neat ruffle. A cumme*rbund is optional.
- Matte or patent leather dress shoes, properly polished, complete the classic tuxedo look.
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Black-Tie with a Personal Touch
- While respecting dress codes is crucial, there's room for personalization. Experiment with jewel-toned jackets or unconventional color choices like a burgundy velvet tuxedo.
- Breaking away from the monochrome palette, consider a white dinner jacket worn over a black shirt for a sophisticated yet distinctive look.
- Embrace comfort by opting for a fine woollen rollneck as an alternative to the traditional shirt and bow tie, while still maintaining a refined appearance.
