What is a Tuxedo? Difference Between Tuxedo and Suit
Are you planning the biggest and most awaited event of your life but confused about what to wear to make that event more memorable? If you're having trouble deciding whether to wear a tuxedo or a suit, don't worry because we've got you covered!
We understand that most of us don't know the difference between a tuxedo and a suit, and with the changing styles of tuxedos, it's becoming even more challenging to tell them apart. However, most people believe that tuxedos are exclusively available in black. But many modern tuxedos incorporate new trends such as grey, tan, or blue.
Moreover, if you are getting married or have been invited to a formal occasion, knowing the difference between a tuxedo and a suit and when to wear each combo is essential. If you are still confused, scroll down to the end of this article. As below, we have mentioned all the important factors one should look for before deciding on your dream dress.
What is a Tuxedo?
A tuxedo is a men's semi-formal or formal suit. It's just a ready-to-wear item that can be purchased or rented from an apparel store at any time. Custom-made tuxedos are made to the wearer's specifications and are available through a personal tailor or designer shop. Tuxedos are becoming increasingly fashionable in formal attire and come in a variety of bolder colours, fabrics, sizes and unique designs.
How to Wear a Tuxedo?
Don't know how to wear a tuxedo? Well, here are some crucial points to remember before wearing a tuxedo to attain a more formal appearance.
1. Jacket and Pants
You can't go wrong with classic shawl lapel single-breasted tuxedo jackets. Other jacket styles, such as a notch or peak, may appear out of place depending on the occasion. The pants might have a silk stripe along the outside of each leg and aren't cuffed. In terms of colour, tuxedos in midnight blue or black are appropriate in most scenarios.
2. Shirt
Traditional point collars and wing collars are both available on dress shirts. However, the bow tie around the neck is visible through the wing collar. For a classic tuxedo look, point collar shirts are perfect. Furthermore, a plain or pleated front is also an option that is visible and goes well with bow ties.
3. Bow Tie
Many people mistakenly assume that tuxedos can be worn with long ties or no tie at all. However, the most elegant tie to wear is a simple bow tie that you can tie yourself easily.
4. Cummerbunds
Cummerbund is an integral part of black-tie etiquette since it completes the look of formal outfit. Cummerbund can be used to hide the unsightly bunching that may occur when a shirt is tucked into pants and improve your outfit's overall appearance.
5. Patent Shoes
The patent dress shoes must be plain and have a round toe. However, avoid square-toed shoes, sneakers, sandals or cowboy boots as they look odd with the rest of the outfit.
6. Watch Selection
Many men wonder if they should wear a watch when wearing a tuxedo. If you want to wear a watch, opt for a slim silver wristwatch with a simple design. Avoid wearing a sporty or sparkly watch that interferes with the rest of your look.
Is There a Difference Between a Suit and a Tuxedo?
Yes. Mens suits and tuxedos are commonly discussed when selecting dress codes for formal or semi-formal events. However, these clothing appear to be the same, but there is a significant difference between the two. So, let's have a look.
Tuxedos are semi-formal or formal attire, whereas suits are more informal attire. A tuxedo is suitable after 6pm gatherings as this is too formal for an earlier time of the day. These are usually dark grey and are appropriate for weddings and other special occasions, but not for funerals.
On the other hand, suits can also be worn to morning or evening gatherings or any event, such as formal or informal dinners, business gatherings and can also be worn in funerals.
Moreover, the appearance of satin is also an important physical difference between a tuxedo and a suit. Satin covering on the collar, hooks, pockets trim, and a glossy sides line down the sides of the trousers are all classic features of tuxedos while it's absent in suits.
Tuxedo vs Suit Price
The price of a tuxedo and a suit is greatly influenced by the type of material used, the quality of the fabric – whether it is branded or obtained from local shops, or it is customised or ready-made.
Moreover, tuxedos are typically composed of high-quality materials such as polyester, rayon, poly-rayon or a polyester/silk blend, and as a result, they are pretty expensive. On the other hand, suits can be made of wool or a combination of fabrics, so they are usually inexpensive than tuxedos.
Should I Wear a Suit or Tux for a Wedding?
When you're unsure, it's a good idea to consider your wife's lead! If she has chosen a fancy dress or formal wear for herself, you can also go with a formal look. So, it's entirely up to you and your partner to decide on the tone or dress code for your marriage. If your ceremony is a formal or dark-skinned outdoor event, wear a suit; if it is a relatively informal or midday occasion, you can also wear a suit.
Who Should Wear a Tux at a Wedding?
Any man who wants to look formal or attend an event with a dress code theme should wear a tuxedo. However, if you're the groom or a member of the wedding ceremony, you'll have to wear a tuxedo to a black-tie ceremony. You must also wear a tux if you're a guest. Alternatively, if the wedding guests wear tuxedos, the bride's father and groom should also wear the same.
Do Most Grooms Wear Tuxedos or Suits?
The selection is primarily based on the wedding's general etiquette, as the groom's dress sets the stage for a white-tie, black-tie, casual or semi-formal event. The dark tux is a proven solution for men who like conventional clothes. It's classy, ageless and elegant.
If you're anxious that the traditional look won't give you enough originality, personalise it with different collar shapes, materials and blazer styles. Choose a velvet tux for night ceremonies throughout the cooler months. Double-breasted blazers are ideal for people who appreciate a retro period and would like to make themselves appear very attractive.
Why are Tuxedos More Expensive than Suits?
Tuxedos are often expensive than suits due to their extra features, styles and designs, and the quality of the material, such as satin stripes that run the length of the slacks and a satin top.
The manufacturing value of tuxedos increases when more material is used and more sophisticated procedures are performed. Although a suit might improve your appearance, a tuxedo's value is, however, always eye appealing.
Is a Suit or Tuxedo more Formal?
Suits are appropriate for any occasion. They are less professional than tuxedos, and if dressed without a tie and in soft fabrics like linens, they can even be called an informal dress. Tuxedos, on the other hand, are more formal than suits. They look odd without a tie and are a formal dress as compared to suits as you cannot wear this sleek design at any moment of the day other than special events.
What Should a Guy Wear to Prom?
Do you want to go to prom this year but don't know what to wear? Keep calm as we'll take care of the rest. We all know that prom is a formal or semi-formal occasion and that choosing the right prom suits is crucial for boys to look best. So, to distinguish yourself from an ordinary suit, choose a tuxedo with a formal appearance. If you don't want to go all-out formal and also don't want to appear too casual, choose traditional double-breasted suits with basic patterns like pinstripes and checks.
Conclusion
To summarise, choose the formal wear that appeals to your soul – look deep within yourself, ponder and use a metaphysical sense to pick the best option for yourself. Another way to pick from the two is by simply looking at the event. Whether formal or semi-formal, inquire about the dress code theme and see what other people you know are wearing and then make the final decision. We hope this article helps you since we briefly explained everything you need to know about a tuxedo, including the difference between a suit and a tuxedo. So, what are you going to wear? Let’s know in the comments!