What are Tuxedos? Explanation and History

A tuxedo is formal evening wear. Despite how people use the term casually, it refers to a specific garment with distinct standards. If you're attending events that require black-tie dress codes or considering getting one at Paul's Fashion Samui, understanding what a tuxedo is highly significant.

The Origin of Tuxedo Suits

In the 19th century, the standard formal evening wear was the tailcoat, a jacket with long tails extending to the back of the knees, worn with a white waistcoat and white tie. It was uncomfortable and restrictive.

In 1865, the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, ordered a tailless midnight blue smoking jacket with matching trousers from the London tailors Henry Poole & Co. at Savile Row. He had it made for informal country use at Sandringham, the Royal Family's estate.

By the 1880s, wealthy residents of Tuxedo Park, New York had adopted the concept. In October 1886, Griswold Lorillard and his friends showed up at the community's Autumn Ball wearing what society columns described as "a tailless dress coat." The American establishment initially rejected it as too informal. Though by 1888, polite society accepted it as an alternative to the tailcoat for evening wear. The garment has since become associated with Tuxedo Park, and the name stuck in America.

By the early 20th century, the tuxedo had established specific standards and remains the standard for black-tie events today.

When To Wear Tuxedo Suits? The Difference Between Black Tie vs. White Tie

It’s important to note that tuxedos are specifically for black-tie events. Check your invitation. If it says: "black tie," "black tie optional," or "formal evening wear" then it means a tuxedo is appropriate. "Business formal" or "cocktail attire" does not require one.

Black tie and white tie are different dress codes. They're not interchangeable, and neither should be confused with a regular suit.

White tie is the most formal, reserved for state functions, embassy events, and ceremonial occasions. It requires a tailcoat with tails, a white waistcoat, and a white bow tie.

Black tie is semi-formal. It's less formal than white tie but more formal than a business dress. You wear it to formal dinners, galas, charity events, and formal evening occasions. A regular suit, even an expensive, well-tailored one, is not a tuxedo. A suit has a regular tie, regular buttons, and different construction. It's appropriate for business and daytime events. Wearing a suit to a black-tie event is incorrect.

How To Wear a Tuxedo Properly

A tuxedo jacket can be single-breasted or double-breasted and is typically black or midnight blue. Off-white versions exist for tropical climates. The lapels must be peaked or notch style, with satin or grosgrain facing on the lapels and pocket flaps. This trim is part of the standard construction.

Trousers for tuxedos are black or matching the jacket color. A single silk or satin stripe runs down the outside seam, matching the lapel trim.

The shirt is white, starched, and formal. It traditionally has a marcella or pleated bib front with double cuffs. The collar is either a turndown collar or a detachable wing collar. Cufflinks and studs fasten the front and cuffs instead of regular buttons.

Shoes are black, formal, and polished. Patent leather court shoes or opera pumps are traditional. Black lace-up Oxford shoes are equally common now. No brogueing or decorative patterns appear on black-tie shoes.

A black low-cut waistcoat or cummerbund covers the waist, not both at the same time. Other accessories include a black bow tie matching the lapel facing, black silk socks, and optionally a pocket handkerchief.

Get Fitted For A Bespoke Tuxedo at Paul's Fashion

At Paul's Fashion Samui, our team has over 20 years of crafting custom tailored tuxedos. When you arrive at our bespoke tailor in Koh Samui, our team will walk you through the specifications. We discuss every specification such as lapel style, button configuration, fit preferences, and the requirements for your event. You're measured precisely, and we ensure that the tuxedo is constructed to your proportions. In 96 hours, you have ideal formal wear that fits like a dream.

To get started with your journey into bespoke clothing, send us an email at info@paulfashionsamui.com or call us at +66 84 627 3812 to schedule your fitting. We’re also available on WhatsApp at the same number.