Overview of Contemporary Styles of Men's Formal Tuxedos

Sep 16
06:49

2008

Trevor Price

Trevor Price

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Men's tuxedos are so much more than your atypical black bow tie, cummerbund and black jacket - the range of styles and fashions available today is phenomenal.

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There are many different styles of men's tuxedos - from the ultra-modern to the incredibly conservative. Each one serving a different function and appropriate for a different event. To learn more about the various types and styles of tuxedos,Overview of Contemporary Styles of Men's Formal Tuxedos Articles read on.

Traditional Tuxedo

The traditional tuxedo is a black, single-breasted, wool suit with either shawl or peaked collars. Often, the lapels are made from satin and the buttons are also satin-covered. Depending on the style, the outward side seams of the matching pants may also feature a single inch-wide satin strip. The bow tie is always - or should always - be black. 

In Europe and the UK, this type of tuxedo is often referred to as a dinner jacket and will frequently only have one button. However, in North America, many popular and contemporary styles sport 2 or sometimes 3 buttons. Regardless of the style, the traditional tux is appropriate for black tie events, but is almost never worn before 4 o'clock.

Wearing Tails

Tails are very formal (see morning jackets below) and are often only appropriate for events that are deemed "white tie." Typically, the only white tie events are those with attending state dignitaries or members of the Royal Family. However, should you ever be invited to a white tie event, you will be expected to wear a black tailcoat.

Morning Jacket

Like tails, the morning jacket is formal, but it's designed and intended for daytime wear. For example, an afternoon wedding is appropriate for this long jacket with a wide, forked tail. If you decide to wear a morning jacket to your wedding, you should change before the evening reception into a traditional dinner jacket.

The Waistcoat

A cummerbund is not a compulsory tuxedo accessory. Today, many contemporary styles depend on vests and waistcoats to add a splash of color or pizzazz to the traditional tux. Remember though, a waist coat is only intended for single-breasted jackets and should never be worn under a basic suit.

Alternative Tuxedos

There are a number of new styles coming out for men's formal wear - from Mandarin collars to buttonless designs. While they may be fashion forward and very cool, they are not always be appropriate for the event. Before you opt for a non-traditional tux, review the invitation and get a sense of the "feel" of the event.

Accessories and Accent Pieces

Walk into a men's formal shop and you'll often see a wall of accessories such as canes, gloves and hats - all designed to go with the traditional tux. However, these items are rarely appropriate and should be avoided at all costs as they're often seen as making a mockery of the event's formality. Instead, opt for a colorful handkerchief or a short scarf.