Most of us aren’t walking the red carpet or accepting an Academy Award. But dressing to the nines for a wedding or gala is something we’ve all done and can't wait to do again after this pandemic is over. We all can't wait to attend another formal event where looking sharp is part of the agenda. When you invest in the ultimate piece of formal wear, its style and fit should be nothing shy of impeccable. Consider these things before you suit up for something special:
SHIRT COLLAR
The wing—a stand-up collar with downward points—is the most formal style,
while the mandarin or band collar offers a more contemporary look. Prefer to
wear a necktie instead of a bow tie? The wide spread collar is a great option.
SHIRT FRONT
A shirt front with no placket and concealed buttons is clean and contemporary,
while a pleated front worn with studs adds interest. For an elegant look, try a smooth bib-front shirt, perhaps in a pique fabric, with room for studs.
JACKET LAPEL
You know the choices: peak, shawl and notch. Wear a silk-faced peak lapel for
highly formal occasions and the rounded shawl style when you want to soften
your look. While versatile, a notch lapel is the least formal for a tuxedo.
JACKET SHOULDER
Don’t overlook this detail. The padding of your tux jacket should not extend beyond the tip of your shoulders (no shoulder divot). If it does, your jacket is too big.
JACKET CUT
While you can’t go wrong with a traditional-cut jacket, a modern fit, which is trimmer through the chest and shoulder, offers fashion-forward styling and a flattering silhouette—and it’s still appropriate for any black-tie event.
SLEEVE LENGTH
When paired with a properly fitted shirt, the jacket sleeve should show a half-inch
of the shirt cuff—just enough for others to see your cufflinks.
JACKET LENGTH
We’ll work with you if you’re an NBA center, but for the regular guy, the piece
should cover your backside. Another guide: With your arms at your side, the
jacket should end between your thumb’s knuckle and base.
PANT LEG WIDTH
Find a cut that flatters your waist, thighs and calves. Pay attention to how the fabric drapes—anything too tight will create wrinkles, while too much material will be baggy.
PANT LEG LENGTH
Pants should have half or no break. See your tailor immediately if they are bunching at your ankles (or if your ankles are showing). The half break is the standard, showing a slight dent where the hem rests on the top of the shoe.
SHOES
Patent loafers and oxfords, traditionally worn with a tux, are best suited for
the most formal events. Both styles in suede or polished leather will give you a
low-key look.