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A classic black suit and an elegant tuxedo may seem similar on the outside, but these outfits have significant differences that determine both their suitability for various events and the overall visual impression. Our head tailor Edgars shares his knowledge about what distinguishes these two garments and why the subtle nuances are so important.
One of the most noticeable differences is the lapels. For a black suit, they are made of base fabric, while for a tuxedo, they are made of glossy satin. Tuxedo lapels can come in different styles, for example, with pointed corners or shawl lapels. Similarly, pocket flaps for a tuxedo are traditionally sewn from satin, not the base fabric like for a suit.
Buttons are also different – for a black suit, they are usually made of wood, horn or pearl, while for a tuxedo, they are always covered with satin fabric. A subtle but practical solution in a tuxedo is an additional inner button, which allows you to make the jacket looser, for example, when dancing.
A shirt with classic buttons is usually worn with a suit, but tuxedo shirts have special holes for decorative buttons, similar to cufflinks, only smaller. A bow tie is always worn with a tuxedo – a tie is not acceptable here.
A black suit can be worn with shoes of various styles and even colors, while only black, elegant “one-cut” style shoes without unnecessary details are suitable for a tuxedo. A cummerbund is also traditionally worn with a tuxedo – a fabric band around the waist that replaces a vest. Alternatively, a classic white vest can also be worn.
An integral part of a tuxedo is a white pocket square. Its visible part should be as wide as the shirt cuff, which protrudes beyond the jacket sleeve – a subtle accent of elegance that makes the overall image complete.
A black suit and a tuxedo – both are elegant and masculine outfits, but each is designed for its own situations. If a suit is a universal choice for both everyday business meetings and formal events, then a tuxedo is a symbol of luxury and classics, suitable only for special evening events. By familiarizing yourself with these nuances, it is easier to choose the most suitable option to always look flawless and appropriate for the situation.
