Tuxedo Etiquette: What To Wear And How To Style It Right

Key Takeaways:

• Tuxedo vs. Suit: A tuxedo features satin accents, a bow tie, and specific accessories like a cummerbund or vest, setting it apart from a standard suit.
• Fit and Fabric: The perfect tuxedo fit ensures comfort and style. Choosing between wool, cotton, or linen fabrics allows for personal and environmental customization.
• Tuxedo Accessories: Bow ties, cufflinks, and pocket squares are essential to complete a tuxedo look, with minimalism key to a sophisticated ensemble.

Let’s be real—formalwear can feel like a secret club with a rulebook no one handed you. And tuxedos? They come with their unspoken code. But don’t stress. This isn’t about outdated traditions or looking like you’re wearing a costume. This is about confidently mastering the tuxedo—owning the look without overdoing it.

Whether you're suiting for a black-tie wedding, a high-profile event, or just leveling up your style, this guide breaks it down. We've got you the right fit, the must-have accessories, and the small details that make all the difference. Think effortless, cool, sharp but relaxed, the style that turns heads for all the right reasons.

What Makes A Tuxedo Different From A Suit? Key Distinctions

Attention to detail is crucial when distinguishing a tuxedo from a standard suit. Tuxedos are typically reserved for the most formal occasions, making evening appearances at weddings, galas, and black-tie events a sartorial masterpiece. Here are some key differences that set tuxedos apart:

Satin Accents

One of the most notable features of a tuxedo is its satin details. Satin is often used for lapels, buttons, and pocket trims, providing a subtle sheen that adds sophistication and an extra touch of elegance. This is in contrast to suits, which typically have fabric that matches the rest of the garment for a more uniform appearance.

The Bow Tie

A classic tuxedo is traditionally paired with a bow tie, setting it apart from suits that often accompany neckties. This accessory not only complies with formal dress codes but also enhances the overall polished look of the ensemble.

Tuxedo Shirt

A tuxedo requires a tuxedo shirt, which is typically designed with a pleated or bibbed front, French cuffs, and no front pockets. Unlike a standard dress shirt, a tuxedo shirt is meant to be worn with studs or cufflinks for a more formal appearance.

Footwear

Black patent leather shoes are the quintessential choice for a tuxedo, completing its polished and formal demeanor. Suits, however, allow more flexibility and can be matched with a wider variety of dress shoes, depending on the occasion's formality.

Accessories And Finishing Touches

Tuxedos are typically styled with formal accessories such as a cummerbund, vest, or suspenders. Suits, by contrast, allow for more flexibility and are often paired with a belt and minimal accessories.

Tuxedo Jacket Essentials: Lapel Styles, Fit, And Fabrics

Understanding the key elements of the tuxedo jacket is paramount to mastering the art of wearing one. At Sartoro, we ensure that every detail of our custom-made tuxedos reflects sophistication and class, starting with the lapel style.

Lapel Styles

Your choice of lapel significantly influences the overall aesthetic of your tuxedo. The three main styles are:

• Notch Lapels: While primarily found on suits, they can be used for a more casual tuxedo look at less formal events.
• Peak Lapels: The classic choice for formal occasions, peak lapels project a sense of authority and are a staple for traditional tuxedo design.
• Shawl Lapels: Ideal for events with a relaxed yet refined dress code, shawl lapels add a touch of elegance with their smooth, rounded edge.

Fit

A well-fitted tuxedo jacket enhances not only your look but also your confidence. Sartoro's AI-powered digital tailoring technology ensures precision in fit, accommodating unique body types and preferences. A perfect fit should:

• Hug the shoulders: No fabric pulling or bulging.
• Button comfortably: The jacket should close without strain, maintaining a sharp silhouette.
• Length alignment: The jacket hem should ideally cover the zipper of your trousers and reach the base of your thumbs.

Fabrics

The fabric of a tuxedo jacket plays a crucial role in comfort and formality.

• Wool: The most common choice, offering a refined appearance with breathability and durability.
• Cotton: A breathable, lightweight option that provides a more relaxed look while maintaining elegance. Best suited for warm-weather events.
• Linen: The most casual fabric option for tuxedos, offering maximum breathability but less structure. 

A tuxedo jacket isn’t just another blazer—it’s a timeless investment that defines your formal style. The right lapel, fit, and fabric ensure you look sharp and feel confident for any black-tie event.

Choosing The Right Tuxedo Shirt: Pleated vs. Plain Front Options

When selecting the perfect tuxedo shirt, your choice between pleated and plain front options can significantly influence the overall look of your ensemble. Both styles cater to different tastes and formalities, and understanding their unique characteristics can help you make an informed decision.

Pleated Front

Pleated front shirts feature vertical lines of pleats running down the chest, offering a classic and traditional aesthetic. These shirts are often favored in highly formal settings and can elegantly accentuate the refined nature of a tuxedo.

The pleats add a touch of texture, breaking the smooth expanse of fabric in a subtle yet sophisticated manner. This style pairs exceptionally well with traditional bow ties and is perfect for formal gatherings like black-tie weddings or gala events. Opt for a pleated front if you're aiming for a time-honored and somewhat grand look.

Plain Front

The plain-front tuxedo shirt is an ideal choice for those seeking a more modern and streamlined appearance. It offers a minimalist and clean aesthetic that appeals to contemporary tastes and is versatile enough for a range of formal occasions.

A plain front shirt allows the tuxedo jacket to stand out, avoiding drawing attention away from your overall ensemble. This style is excellent for wearing with slim ties or bow ties, depending on the event's formality. It's a popular choice for weddings and events where a polished, sleek appearance is desired.

Classic Vs. Modern Tuxedo Looks: Which Style Suits You Best?

Choosing between a classic and modern tuxedo look depends on your personal style, the occasion, and your comfort level.  Let's explore the key differences to help you decide which style suits you best.

The Classic Tuxedo: Timeless Elegance

A classic tuxedo follows traditional black-tie rules and delivers a refined, sophisticated look.

• Jacket: Black or midnight blue with satin peak or shawl lapels.
• Trousers: Satin side stripe, matching the jacket’s lapel.
• Shirt: White tuxedo shirt with a pleated front and French cuffs.
• Bow Tie: Always black and typically made of silk.
• Shoes: Black patent leather or polished Oxford shoes.

Best for: Formal weddings, black-tie galas, and traditional events.

The Modern Tuxedo: Sleek And Contemporary

A modern tuxedo keeps the formal essence but updates key details for a fresh, stylish look.

• Jacket: Slimmer fit with notch, peak, or shawl lapels—sometimes in unique colors like navy, charcoal, or deep green.
• Trousers: Tailored fit, often without a satin stripe for a cleaner aesthetic.
• Shirt: A plain front tuxedo shirt with a turndown collar is a popular modern choice, though pleated shirts are still appropriate.
• Tie: It can be a bow tie or a sleek black tie, depending on the occasion.
• Shoes: Loafers, velvet slippers, or polished dress shoes.

Best for: Fashion-forward weddings, upscale cocktail events, and modern formal gatherings.

How To Wear A Tuxedo For Different Formal Events

A tuxedo isn’t just for weddings — it’s a versatile statement of style for a range of formal occasions. The key is knowing how to adjust your look based on the event’s vibe and level of formality. Here’s how to get it right.

Weddings

For weddings, particularly as a groom or groomsman, the tuxedo you choose should harmonize with the overall theme while reflecting personal taste. Opt for classic black or midnight blue for a traditional approach. Our customization tool lets you personalize lapels, pocket styles, and more, ensuring you stand out charmingly on the day.

Black-Tie Affairs

True black-tie events necessitate the classic tuxedo look. Stick to a black tuxedo paired with a wing-collar shirt and a black bow tie. Consider our range of premium fabrics to match the ambiance of the evening. Accessories like cufflinks and polished dress shoes will complete the ensemble, seamlessly elevating your presence.

Galas And Red-Carpet Events

Explore subtle variations in your tuxedo for these high-profile gatherings to make a lasting impression. Midnight blues or deep charcoal hues offer a sophisticated twist to the conventional black tux. 

Formal Dinners

When attending formal dinners, the goal is to be stylish yet not overtly showy. A shawl-collared tuxedo in classic black with a textured or velvet fabric can offer understated elegance. At Sartoro, our extensive fabric selection allows you to mix textures creatively, achieving that balance between style and refinement.

The Right Accessories: Bow Ties, Cufflinks, and Pocket Squares

Creating a polished and sophisticated look with your tuxedo involves more than just the perfect fit; the right accessories are essential in elevating your ensemble to new levels of elegance and style. 

Bow Ties

The bow tie is a hallmark of formalwear, ideally suited for tuxedo ensembles. When selecting a bow tie, consider classic black silk to maintain an understated yet refined appearance. For those wishing to express personal style, Sartoro's array of customization options allows you to select a fabric or pattern that reflects your individuality without veering from elegance. Remember, a pre-tied bow tie offers convenience, whilst a self-tied version bestows a touch of authentic sophistication.

Cufflinks

Enhance the sophistication of your tuxedo with the right pair of cufflinks. These small but impactful accessories bring a refined finish to your overall look. Sartoro recommends selecting cufflinks that harmonize with the rest of your ensemble.

Metals like silver or gold can offer a timeless appeal, while unique designs or colors can introduce a modern twist. Whether you choose minimalist styles or more ornate designs, cufflinks should be chosen with the event's formality in mind.

Pocket Squares

A pocket square adds a subtle flair and depth to your tuxedo. Complementing rather than matching your attire is the key to choosing the perfect pocket square. Sartoro suggests selecting a pocket square in a shade that contrasts slightly with your bow tie, creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing effect. A crisp white linen or silk option will never go amiss for those committing to a classic look. 

Common Tuxedo Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

When it comes to wearing a tuxedo, every detail matters. Navigating potential pitfalls is essential to truly mastering the art of tuxedo etiquette. Here, we highlight the most common tuxedo mistakes and how to avoid them, ensuring your formal appearance is always polished.

Overlooking The Fit

One of the biggest tuxedo blunders is ignoring fit. A tuxedo should follow your body's contours without being too tight or loose. An ill-fitting tuxedo, whether baggy or constrictive, detracts from the elegance of the ensemble. 

Wrong Shirt Choice

Wearing a regular dress shirt instead of a tuxedo shirt. Opt for a proper tuxedo shirt. These are typically pleated or piqué and feature French cuffs. They are designed to be worn with cufflinks and sometimes shirt studs.

Mismatching Shoes

Choosing the wrong shoes can undermine your entire look. Patent leather shoes are the traditional choice, offering a sleek shine that complements the formal nature of a tuxedo. Avoid casual footwear and opt for the classic appeal that suits the sophisticated vibe of your tux.

Ignoring Accessories

Accessories are pivotal to enhancing your tuxedo. Every item should harmonize with your overall appearance, from pocket squares to cufflinks. Avoid clashing colors and patterns; opt for accessories that subtly accentuate your tuxedo palette. 

Over-Accessorizing

Wearing too many accessories, such as a tie clip, pocket square, and boutonniere, all at once. Keep accessories simple and understated. A pocket square is usually sufficient. Less is more when it comes to formalwear.

Skipping A Bow Tie

While a standard necktie may be acceptable in certain scenarios, a bow tie is undeniably the formal choice when donning a tuxedo. Ensure your bow tie complements your tuxedo and is properly tied to maintain an air of refined elegance.

Neglecting To Maintain Your Look

A polished tuxedo appearance is only as good as its upkeep. Regularly checking your suit's pressing and ensuring it's free from lint or wrinkles is vital. Sartoro garments are crafted from premium fabrics that retain their crisp finish, but a quick once-over ensures a pristine appearance before stepping out.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of wearing a tuxedo is all about embracing the elegance and sophistication that come with it while keeping your personal style intact. From choosing the right lapel and fit to understand the importance of accessories, every detail adds up to a polished, confident look.

Whether you’re attending a black-tie wedding, gala, or formal dinner, the key is to stay true to the formality of the event while adding your unique touch. By avoiding common mistakes and making thoughtful choices, you'll confidently rock your tuxedo and stand out for all the right reasons.

Read also:

• The Digital Tailor
• Tuxedo Vs Suit
• What Is A Tuxedo Shirt?

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuxedo Etiquette: What To Wear And How To Style It Right

How is a tuxedo different from a suit?

The main difference lies in the detailing and purpose. While a suit is more versatile and appropriate for various occasions, a tuxedo is designed for formal events. The use of satin on the lapels and trouser stripes in tuxedos contrasts with the wool or other fabrics in suits. Additionally, tuxedos are typically worn with accessories such as bow ties and cummerbunds, whereas suits may be complemented with other less formal options.

Is it appropriate to rent a tuxedo?

Renting a tuxedo can be suitable for one-time or infrequent events. However, if you frequently attend formal occasions, investing in a custom tuxedo from a trusted retailer like Sartoro offers a more tailored experience, ensuring a perfect fit and a level of personalization that rentals cannot match. 

What color tuxedo should I choose?

Traditionally, black is the most classic and versatile color for tuxedos. However, other colors like midnight blue or white may be appropriate depending on the event and personal style preference. 

What type of shirt goes with a tuxedo?

A classic tuxedo shirt, often with a pleated front and French cuffs, pairs best with a tuxedo. Choose a shirt that complements the elegance of your tuxedo, focusing on high-quality materials and fit. 

Can I wear a belt with a tuxedo?

A belt is usually not part of traditional tuxedo attire since tuxedo trousers are designed to fit perfectly without one. Instead, braces or suspenders are often used. 

How should a tuxedo fit?

A tuxedo should fit snugly but comfortably, highlighting your form while allowing freedom of movement. The jacket should lie flat against your chest without pulling at the buttons, and the trousers should rest comfortably on your hips, ideally without needing a belt.