5 Tips to Know Your Tuxedo Inside Out

Section: Formalwear and Accessories - Blog

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A tuxedo is the most formal attire you will ever have the pleasure of wearing but what else do you know about this inimitable suit? Here we take a look at the 5 key components of the always suave tuxedo.

Style

Tuxedos, like regular suits, come in either single breasted or double breasted styles.

The single breasted tailored tuxedois the most common style and will have one button giving an uncomplicated yet elegant look that can give the wearer the appearance of being taller.

The double breasted tuxedo comes in various button combinations, but the 6 x 2 is the most typical. Excellent tailoring is essential as poorly fitting shoulders and waist are more easily spotted in this distinctive style.

Lapels

The Shawl Collar has a rounded edge and is the most popular choice of lapel in a tuxedo. It often comes in satin or silk but can be anything you like if choosing a bespoke tuxedo. It’s also considered the safest bet for a collar in that it suits any formal occasion.

The Peak Lapel is a good choice for men with round faces or bodies as it creates an elongating effect drawing the attention away from those extra pounds around the midriff. This is the most formal choice for lapels and is most commonly found in wedding tuxedos.

Finishes

Lapel coverings are most commonly silk in the form of satin or grosgrain. This covering will have a bearing on your choice of bow tie and cummerbund material. For this reason, grosgrain is a good choice as it allows for more variation in your choice of accessories.

Buttons can be plain black or use the same covering as the lapels.

Pockets on a tuxedo should reflect the outfit’s minimalistic appearance and so jetted pockets are the only choice. Choose flap pockets at your peril.

Vents

Of the three styles of vents; centre, side, and none, only side and none are suitable for the formal look required of a tuxedo.

The original tuxedos had no vents giving a much slimmer and more elegant silhouette. This is the perfect choice for ultra-formal occasions.

Side vents offer freedom of movement and easier access to pockets; they also make it easier to sit while wearing your jacket. A tuxedo with side vents can be worn at any time but is slightly less flattering than the no vent option.

Pants

Pants are made from the same fabric as the jacket with the waistband often covered by a cummerbund, waistcoat or jacket. A belt is never worn as it adds bulk to the desired slim silhouette.

The side seams are covered and usually match the tuxedo’s lapels. This elegant strip of silk has the added benefit of adding height to the wearer’s appearance.

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Choosing a custom tailored tuxedo is an important decision as this will likely be your attire for formal events for years to come. Choose wisely! But if you’re on the fence, pop in and let Montagio take care of the formalities– pun intended.