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The lines between men’s formal wear have blurred in recent decades, and tuxedos and suits are more hard to distinguish than ever before. If you’re not sure what the differences are and when to wear each, take a look at the guide below.  

Tuxedo vs. Suit

Defining Features 

Tuxedos will be uniform in style and almost always black; however, in recent years, designers have incorporated shades of tan, grey, and blue. This type of formal wear also has a distinctive button and lapel satin features, as well as a single stripe running down each pant leg. 

Suits come in more flexible style designs and feature lighter hues and patterns. However, you’ll want to select a jacket and pants constructed from the same fabric. Suits also commonly have pocket flaps, which you won’t find on a tuxedo, and buttons made from bone, plastic, or covered in fabric. 

Common Accessories  

tuxedosWhile you’d wear a belt with a suit, tuxedos require the addition of a waistcoat or cummerbund and sometimes suspenders. Additionally, the shirt worn with a tuxedo should be white and have a wing or turndown collar and use studs and cufflinks. A suit can be paired with a variety of shirt colors and patterns. Like the shirt, a pocket square should be white for a tuxedo, but you can choose any matching color with a suit. 

The shoe and tie selection for a tuxedo is simple: black patent leather shoes and a self-tied bowtie. However, some modern looks have incorporated long ties when combined with high-stance vests.

Loafers, slip-on, and Oxfords in brown, grey, black, or blue are all appropriate dress shoes for suits. You can also pair your suit with a multitude of necktie and bowtie colors and patterns. 

Suitable Events

A suit can be worn any time of the day for any event deemed more than casual. However, lighter-colored suits and fabrics are more appropriate for morning and mid-day events, and darker and heavier formal wear is better for evening affairs. 

Wear a tuxedo to any evening event categorized as black tie. However, in case this isn’t designated on the invite, consider any momentous or fancy gathering—such as gala dinners, opera and ballet viewings, and balls—worthy of a tux. 

 

Whether you’re looking to purchase custom ready-to-wear tuxedos or  you need a wardrobe consultation, Hunt Club Clothiers can help you find what you’re looking for. Providing high-quality menswear clothing, alterations, and repairs, they’ve proudly served the Cincinnati area since 1973. Reach out to them at (513) 721-2004 or visit their website to see their list of designers and services. 

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