Black Tie

The Tuxedo as Formalwear

Formal menswear offers a range of elegant suits, each with its own etiquette. A tuxedo is evening attire and should not be worn before six in the evening, so as not to breach etiquette. A complete tuxedo consists of the tuxedo jacket, tuxedo trousers and the tuxedo shirt. The outfit is completed with the right accessories, such as bow ties and cufflinks. Together, these elements ensure that your outfit not only looks stylish, but also fully respects the dress code.

What Is a Tuxedo?

A tuxedo is an outfit for special occasions such as galas, events and other festive gatherings. When an invitation states "black tie", "cravate noire", "evening dress" or "dinner jacket", you are expected to appear in a tuxedo. This formal suit consists of a tuxedo jacket, matching trousers, a traditional white tuxedo shirt with cufflinks, black patent leather shoes, a cummerbund, a black bow tie and a white pocket square. A tuxedo is therefore far more than just a formal suit; it is a complete and specific dress code.

The Importance of a Tuxedo Shirt

At a "black tie" event, you naturally appear in a tuxedo, in keeping with the dress code. A traditional white tuxedo shirt is an essential part of this formal suit. Although the shirt is often regarded as a minor detail because it is less visible, it can make or break the entire outfit. At GENTS you will find complete formal suits as well as separate garments, including tuxedo shirts that fully comply with etiquette. It is also convenient to replace your tuxedo shirt when necessary, as shirts and trousers wear out faster than jackets.

Buying Tuxedos at GENTS

Acquiring a refined tuxedo need not be difficult. At GENTS you will find several complete sets, and of course every part of the tuxedo is also available separately. The sets are practical if you do not yet own a tuxedo. For example, there is the basic tuxedo set with shawl lapel or peak lapel. Is it a particularly luxurious occasion? Then we recommend choosing a GENTS deluxe tuxedo set. The tuxedo set consists of a tuxedo jacket, trousers, tuxedo shirt and black bow tie. If you are looking for elegant tuxedos, GENTS is the right address.

Characteristics of a Refined Tuxedo

The jacket of a tuxedo always has a classic satin lapel. But that is not the only distinctive feature of a tuxedo jacket. The pockets are also finished in satin. Naturally, a tuxedo is not complete without matching trousers, and trousers worn with a tuxedo are always recognisable: the outer seam is finished with a narrow strip of satin, known as a galon.

Complete the tuxedo with a traditional white tuxedo shirt, matching cufflinks and long black over-the-calf socks. It is also traditional to wear a tuxedo with black patent leather shoes and, of course, the famous "black tie", the black bow tie. If you want to embrace the classic tuxedo style fully, also wear a cummerbund together with a white pocket square.

Tuxedos Available in Two Styles

The tuxedos worn by men at "black tie" events, among others, can generally be divided into two groups. The difference between the types has to do with how the lapel is cut. The first group consists of tuxedos with a shawl lapel. This tuxedo is classically cut with a fuller collar reminiscent of a shawl, hence the name. In general, this tuxedo has a slightly roomier fit than modern slim fit tuxedos.

Besides the shawl lapel, there are also tuxedos whose lapel ends in a point. This variant most closely resembles the traditional jacket of a suit. The satin lapel, however, clearly indicates that it is a tuxedo jacket and not that of an everyday suit. The lapel of a tuxedo is always classic satin, whether it is a shawl lapel or a peak lapel.

The Tuxedo Shirt: Quality and Details

Every GENTS tuxedo shirt is made from excellent quality fabric, ensuring greater comfort. These shirts come in various collar styles, such as a turndown collar, a band collar or a wing collar. They feature a concealed placket, cufflinks and a pleated front. At GENTS you will find a wide range of tuxedo shirts in various sizes and neck widths, including options for men with a larger build or long arms. Stylish details such as cufflinks and a self-tied black bow tie complete the outfit. GENTS also offers pre-tied bow ties for those who find tying one difficult. At GENTS you are in the right place for a complete and stylish tuxedo outfit.

Tuxedo Accessories: Complete Your Outfit

On a special occasion you naturally want to look impeccable, and that means dressing according to the requested dress code. Does the invitation say "black tie", for example? Then you appear in a refined tuxedo, complete with accessories. If the invitation does not state a dress code, do check: for black tie, you wear a tuxedo or dinner jacket. The right tuxedo accessories make your formal outfit perfect for any occasion. At GENTS you will find everything you need to take part in festive events in full style. Besides complete tuxedos, you can also order separate garments and accessories, such as matching bow ties and cufflinks.