What's the Difference?
A Tuxedo
A tuxedo is a formal ensemble worn to formal events.
i.e. Weddings, Galas, Formal Dinners on Cruises, Certain Award Ceremonies, etc.
Jacket Buttons are always covered in black satin or fabric that matches the jacket.
Jacket Pockets may also have have satin touches.
Jacket Lapels will also be fully satin or have satin detailing.
Tuxedo Slacks may also have a satin stripe down the out seam of the legs.
Tuxedos are typically wool and also come in a variety of colors, however the most classic is black.
Slacks don’t always have to match the jacket. Currently, jackets that are contrasting from black pants are the latest trend in formal looks.
Think maroon jacket with black satin lapels or white jacket with black satin piping on the lapels.
A Suit
Suits are typically worn for most business occasions, casual outings or semi-formal events.
Suits have been trending as popular menswear looks for wedding parties.
Jacket Buttons are typically made of acrylic, wood, plastic, or bone. There are also usually four buttons on the jacket sleeves near the wrist.
Slacks ALWAYS match the coat in color and fabric make up.
Suits are typically made of wool and come in a variety of colors. The most common ones are black, charcoal, grey, and navy. We have these colors in stock on a consistent basis.
A suit is a staple piece of menswear and every man should have at least one, even if you are not a regular suit wearer.
Okay, what do I wear with each?
A Suit
A DRESS SHIRT and long necktie are the best bet when it comes to accessorizing your suit.
When it comes to ties, LONG NECK TIES are the best option but patterned bow ties also make for a unique look. Ties can also be a variety of fabric makes to suit your style. Ties for tuxedos need to almost always be satin and give off somewhat of a shine.
Suits also call for BELTS and they need to always match your dress shoes or at least be similar in color.
Dress shoes worn with suits will have a soft leather finish to them and usually come in black or brown. Different styles such as oxfords, wing tip, cap toe and more are all options in dress shoes that can be worn with suits.
A Tuxedo
A FORMAL SHIRT worn with tuxedos are usually white, pleated, or have small rows of folds on the front of the shirts. However, flat front options are becoming common place.
When it comes to ties a black BOW TIE is the most classic of looks, however, other ties can be incorporated. As long as they stick to a silk make and are not a focal point of the tuxedo.
Silk or shiny FORMAL VESTS are more common now versus the traditional cummerbund. A cummerbund is similar to a belt, it goes around the waist but has a wide piece of satin fabric with pleats that face upward and lays on the waist.
Tuxedos slacks NEVER come with belt loops, they are typically adjustable from the inside of the slack or custom fit to the wearer.
What finally sets a tuxedo apart from a suit is the JEWELRY. All tuxedo shirts will come in French or convertible cuff options which allow for CUFFLINKS. All tuxedo shirts will also come with holes above each front shirt button to insert a silver stud. These studs act as the buttons instead of the actual button for a completed formal look.
The type of shoes worn with a tuxedo are usually black patent leather formal shoes. This is the most iconic look but it is becoming popular and acceptable to wear non shiny shoes with a tuxedo. However, 9 times out of 10, dress shoes worn with tuxedos should be black in color.
Key Takeaway Here
If a jacket button is rounded and covered in fabric, it’s a tuxedo or formal jacket. If the buttons have the typical four holes and not in fabric, it's a suit jacket or sport jacket.
Suits Unlimited, the premier menswear store in Albuquerque, NM, is the place to shop in Albuquerque and New Mexico for all your suit and tuxedo needs. Whether you are looking for tuxedo rentals for your wedding or a suit for a special occasion, we can help you look your best. You are invited to come on down to our store and order your wedding tuxedo rentals or to give us a call at 505-883-1060 and talk to us directly.
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