For men’s formalwear, the tuxedo and suit are classic options that will always be in style. But when should you wear each one?
Knowing the difference between a tux and a suit, and when to wear them, can ensure you look sharp and avoid a fashion faux pas. So, let’s get started on the topic of Tuxedo vs. Suit.
What is the Difference Between a Tuxedo and a Suit?
The main difference lies in the details. A traditional tuxedo is a black tie ensemble, consisting of a black jacket with satin or grosgrain lapels, matching black pants, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and waist covering like a cummerbund or low-cut vest. The fabric is also more formal, often in barathea wool or ultrafine herringbone.
A suit is more versatile and available in many colors and fabrics like wool, linen, or cotton. Suits feature notch lapels, often in a contrasting fabric, with matching pants and any color dress shirt.
Ties replace bow ties for suits, with many options like four-in-hand, skinny, knit, etc. Suit jackets also have flap pockets, whereas tuxedo jackets have besom pockets with no flaps.
When to Wear a Tuxedo vs. Suit?
Tuxedos are reserved for the most formal occasions requiring black tie attire. This includes events like balls, galas, formal dinners, upscale weddings, and ritzy New Year’s Eve parties. Symphony opening nights, museum benefits, and theater premiers also often require tuxedos.
Suits have a broader range of uses, from important business meetings to date nights to casual weekend events.
For weddings, grooms can wear either a tux or suit, depending on formality.
Guests are generally fine in nice suits unless a black tie is specified. For job interviews, work events, funeral services, and church, a quality suit is always appropriate.
Tuxedo Specifics
- Strictly worn after 6 pm for evening formal events
- Black is the standard color, white for summer
- The jacket has satin or grosgrain lapels
- Matching black pants with silk braiding
- White pleated formal shirt, black bow tie
- Waist coverings like cummerbunds or low-cut vest
- Shirt studs and cufflinks should match metals
Suit Specifics
- Acceptable for both daytime and evening wear
- Available in many colors – navy, gray, tan, patterns
- The jacket has notch lapels, often with contrasting fabric
- Matching pants, any dress shirt color, long tie
- More versatile footwear like oxfords or loafers
- Pocket square optional accessory
What to Wear With Each (Tuxedo & Suit)
With black tie tuxedos, the shoes, belt, tie, lapel, and cufflinks should match. Patent leather shoes are traditional but velvet slippers work too. White gloves are optional. The watch should be ultra-thin and elegant.
Suits allow for more flexibility in accessories. Leather dress belts and shoes can be black or brown. Watches can be chunkier like a dive watch. Pocket squares add flair. Ties range from knits to bold patterns. Lapel pins and collar bars also work with suits.
Making the Decision (Suit vs. Tux for Wedding & Prom)
For weddings, the invitation will specify the dress code. Black tie optional means you can wear either a tux or dark suit. Black tie mandatory means you must wear a tuxedo. For guests, a dark suit is usually fine unless a black tie is specified.
As for the groom, a tuxedo or suit is acceptable. Consider a tuxedo for a formal evening wedding. For less formal daytime nuptials, a nice suit often fits better. Just be sure the groomsmen match.
For proms, teens can’t go wrong with a tux, but a suit also works. The suit or tux should fit well and be paired with polished shoes and accessories. Color coordination with your date is recommended.
The Finishing Touches
No matter your choice, the fit is key for both tuxedos and suits. Visit a tailor to ensure the pants and jacket complement your frame. For black tie events, tuxedo rentals are common to get the formal look without the cost. With suits, focus on quality over quantity, owning just a few that fit impeccably.
When in doubt, it’s never inappropriate to be overdressed for formal events. Opting for a tuxedo over a suit will always convey respect and sophistication. But don’t break the bank on buying a tuxedo you may rarely wear.
Rent one or invest in a quality suit that can serve you well for years if cared for properly.
The tuxedo vs. suit debate ultimately comes down to understanding the formality of the event when deciding.
With the tips above, you can determine the best choice while always looking dressed to impress.