Tuxedo
A tuxedo is a men’s formal outfit primarily worn as evening semi-formal attire, consisting mainly of a jacket with satin facings and matching slacks.
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Definition and Overview
A tuxedo, also called a dinner jacket in English, is a men’s semi-formal evening outfit. It generally combines a black or dark navy jacket, matching slacks, a white formal shirt, and a bow tie, and serves as the core of black-tie attire.
In Japan, tailored formal sets are sometimes broadly called tuxedos, but in the original sense it differs in purpose and level of formality from a morning coat, which is formal daytime wear, and a tailcoat, which is formal evening wear.
Parts and Construction
The jacket is typically single-breasted and fastens with one button at the front. Peak lapels or a shawl collar are common, and the lapels are finished with a glossy silk fabric called facing, or with another fabric that creates a similar appearance.
The slacks use the same fabric as the jacket, and the basic specification includes a facing strip called a tuxedo stripe along the side seam. Leaving off belt loops and pairing the trousers with suspenders or a cummerbund to shape the waist is traditional, though it varies by product specification.
- Lapel: the folded-back section that continues from the front edge of the jacket to the collar.
- Facing: silk fabric with a sheen, such as satin weave, used for lapels and tuxedo stripes.
- Tuxedo stripe: a decorative tape placed vertically along the side seam of the slacks.
Materials and Finish
The main body is often made from wool-based woven fabric with a calm sheen and good drape. For the lapels, covered buttons, and the tuxedo stripe on the slacks, fabrics with a different texture from the main body, such as silk satin weave or grosgrain, may be used.
During planning, it is important to check the blackness, sheen, and surface texture of the main body and facing under lighting. Black and dark navy can look different depending on the material and dyeing, and color differences between parts or excessive gloss may stand out.
Matching Attire and How to Wear It
For formal occasions, pair it with a white formal shirt, a black bow tie, and black shoes. Shirts may use wing collars or a pleated front, and some combinations also use cufflinks at the cuffs and stud buttons at the front placket.
Tuxedos are generally used for evening receptions, ceremonies, stage costumes, and similar occasions. Prioritize the dress code on the invitation, the venue’s customs, and the organizer’s instructions, and if daytime formal wear is required, consider another outfit such as a morning coat.
How to Choose and Care for It
When selecting one, check the lapel shape, the material of the facing, the button specification, and whether the slacks have a tuxedo stripe. Since a ready-made suit worn with a bow tie may differ from the original tuxedo specification, first decide the level of formality you want.
The facing section may become fuzzy, faded, or shiny due to friction or pressure. After wearing, remove the contents of the pockets, smooth the shape, and hang it on a broad hanger to rest. Follow the care label for cleaning and ironing, and avoid pressing the lapels strongly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tuxedo and a tailcoat?
A tuxedo is mainly semi-formal evening wear and corresponds to black-tie attire. A tailcoat is formal evening wear with a jacket whose back hem splits like a swallow’s tail, and it is generally considered more formal than a tuxedo.
Can a regular necktie be worn with a tuxedo?
In traditional black-tie attire, a black bow tie is worn. Using a regular necktie gives a look closer to a suit and falls outside the standard form of formal wear. For costume use, the specification should be chosen according to the purpose.
Can a tuxedo be worn during the day?
Traditionally it is considered evening wear, but it is also worn during the day at modern weddings and stage events. For ceremonies, check the invitation’s dress code and the venue’s instructions, and if formal daytime wear is required, choose a morning coat.
