Since 1886, tuxedos have been the pinnacle of men’s style, representing high society and celebration.

• ‘Black tie’ or ‘white tie?’ Surely the dress code on that invitation you received can’t be that simple?

• Those words are code for ‘proper attire’ and you must be in the know to ensure you dress appropriately.

• We’ll decipher the code right here so you’re always dressed just right

• Black Tie & White Tie – Mens formal wear for Black Tie includes tuxedos. White Tie is the ‘top of the top’ in formal wear, meaning ultra-formal with white tie, vest, and tuxedo shirt.

• Black Tie Optional – Also called ‘Creative Black Tie,’ this means you can substitute a dark suit for a men’s tuxedo.

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• Semi-Formal – Men are not required to wear a tuxedo, but should wear a dark suit for evening or a light suit for a daytime event, also called ‘informal’.

• Festive Attire – The same as informal or semi-formal, but incorporating a holiday theme. For example, dark suit and a red or green tie for an evening Christmas party.

• Casual – The least formal requirement. Sometimes you run into ‘dressy casual,’ which is a half step up from casual where you might wear nice trousers and a sports coat. If there are no real requirements, then go casual.

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• Men’s tuxedos and suits must fit properly for the look to work.

• A suit that hangs off the body or clings tightly looks worse than casual attire at a black tie event.

• Matching body type to tailoring is the best way to achieve that flawless, classy tuxedo look.

• Shirt cuffs should ride about an inch beyond the jacket sleeve.

• Jackets should be loose enough to allow ventilation, while still highlighting the body without being baggy.

• Trousers should be slightly wider to accommodate the upper thighs.

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• If you are tall and slender to medium, tuxedos should fit your body well. Look for a double-breasted jacked with added padding in the shoulders and have the waist taken in slightly. This complements the body perfectly by creating a statuesque and manly look.

• Tall and larger than medium build and muscular men should stick with a shawl collar mens tuxedo with a smooth, thin collar without notched lapels. Choose a one button single-breasted jacket with the length running down to the tips of your fingers. Select a tie proportionate to your face. Avoid thin ties and gigantic bow ties.

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• Shorter men should choose a single-breasted jacket with one button near the belt line. This will help give you a taller look.

• A notched lapel works well for thinner men to fill out their frame.

• Huskier men should look for shawl collar tuxedos.

• Make sure you match the tie to the size of your build for a symmetrical and proportional look.

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• Coats come in three different lapel styles, from notched with a V indent to peak with a V indent, which means it comes up like a mountain peak.

• Shawl style has a rounded lapel.

• Single-breasted coats button down the middle where double-breasted styles cross over the center for buttoning.

• A wool tuxedo with a high thread count is top end, but polyester is cheaper andbetter for men with fabric allergies.

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• Buying 100% cotton tuxedo shirts and dress shirts gives you the highest quality.

• If you are renting a shirt or trying to save money, look for a polyester/cotton blend.

• Microfiber shirts feel extremely light and soft like silk. They are a great buy for comfort during a long event.

• Purchase dress trousers like any other pants by matching the pants to your waist size.

• Make sure you have a satin stripe down the length of tuxedo trousers.

• Get your pants hemmed to fit the length of your legs. Don’t try to get away without a proper hemming.

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• Mens tuxedo vests personalize your look. They come in a wide range of colors. Purchase a fullback vest instead of an open back vest that just secures with a clasp.

• From the classic bow tie to the western bow tie with its distinctive T shape, you can add style with neckwear. For an upscale look, wear a Windsor style. A button cover can take the place of a tie for a modern look.

• Bump up the formal feel with silver or gold cufflinks or studs.

• Wear suspenders for a traditional style.

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• In the end, achieving the best look for men’s formal wear includes following the dress code, matching your body type, and paying attention to details that polish your look.

• Express yourself through ties, accessories, colors, patterns, and prints.

• Don’t feel constrained by dress codes and etiquette. Use guidelines to provide the framework for your own unique look.

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