Black Tie

The Tuxedo as Formal Attire

Formal menswear offers a variety of elegant suits, each with its own etiquette. A tuxedo is worn as evening wear and should not be worn before half past five in the afternoon to respect proper etiquette. A complete tuxedo consists of the dinner jacket, tuxedo trousers, and tuxedo shirt. The outfit is completed with the right accessories, such as bow ties and cufflinks. These elements together ensure that your outfit not only looks stylish but also fully complies with the dress code.

What is a Tuxedo?

A tuxedo is an outfit for special occasions such as galas, events, or other festive gatherings. When invitations specify 'black tie', 'cravate noire', 'evening wear', or 'dinner jacket', you are expected to wear 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 much more than just formal attire; it is a complete and specific dress code.

The Importance of a Tuxedo Shirt

At a 'black tie' event, you naturally dress neatly according to the dress code in a tuxedo. A traditional white tuxedo shirt is an essential part of this formal suit. Although the shirt is often seen as a less important detail because it is less visibly prominent, it can make or break the entire outfit. At GENTS, you will find both complete formal suits and individual pieces, including tuxedo shirts that fully comply with etiquette. It is also practical to replace your tuxedo shirt if needed, as shirts and trousers wear out faster than jackets.

Buying Tuxedos at GENTS

Purchasing a proper tuxedo does not have to be difficult. At GENTS, you will find a number of different complete sets, and of course all tuxedo components are also available separately. Sets are convenient when you do not yet own a tuxedo. There is the basic tuxedo set with a shawl collar or pointed collar. Is it a very luxurious event? Then it is certainly recommended to purchase a GENTS deluxe tuxedo set. The tuxedo set consists of a tuxedo jacket, trousers, tuxedo shirt, and black bow tie. When you are looking for proper tuxedos, GENTS is the right place for you.

Characteristics of a Proper Tuxedo

The jacket of a tuxedo always has a classic satin collar. However, that is not the only characteristic of a tuxedo jacket. The pockets of the tuxedo are also finished with satin. Of course, a tuxedo is not complete without matching trousers. Trousers worn under a tuxedo are always recognizable. The outer seam of the trousers is finished with a narrow strip of satin, called a stripe.

Complete the tuxedo with a traditional white tuxedo shirt, matching cufflinks, and long black dress socks. Moreover, it is tradition to wear a tuxedo in combination with black patent leather shoes and of course the famous 'black tie', or black bow tie. If you want to go for the classic tuxedo style entirely, also wear the cummerbund in combination with a white pocket square.

Tuxedos Available in Two Styles

The tuxedos worn by gentlemen at, among other things, 'black tie' events are generally divided into two groups. The difference between the types of tuxedos has to do with the way the collar is cut. One group consists of tuxedos with a shawl collar. The tuxedo in question is classically cut with a thicker collar that resembles a shawl. Hence the name 'shawl'. Generally, this tuxedo has a somewhat roomier fit than modern slim-fit tuxedos.

Besides the shawl collar, tuxedos are also available with a collar that tapers to a point. This variant most closely resembles the traditional jacket of a suit. However, the satin collar clearly indicates that this is a tuxedo jacket and not an everyday suit jacket. The collar of a tuxedo is always classic satin. This applies to both the shawl collar and the pointed collar.

The Tuxedo Shirt: Quality and Details

Each GENTS tuxedo shirt is made from excellent quality, which provides better wearing comfort. These shirts feature various collar styles such as a flat collar, a Kent collar, or a wing collar. They are equipped with a hidden placket, cufflinks, and a pleated front. At GENTS, you will find a wide selection of tuxedo shirts in various sizes and collar sizes, including options for gentlemen with larger sizes or longer 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 have difficulty tying them. At GENTS, you are in the right place for a complete and stylish tuxedo outfit.

Tuxedo Accessories: Complete Your Outfit

At a special occasion, you naturally want to look impeccable, which means dressing according to the desired dress code. If, for example, 'black tie' is specified? Then you naturally appear in a proper tuxedo, complete with accessories. If no dress code is indicated, you are always well-dressed with a stylish dinner jacket. The right tuxedo accessories make your formal outfit perfect for any occasion. At GENTS, you will find everything you need to participate in festive events in style. In addition to complete tuxedos, you can also order individual pieces and accessories, such as matching bow ties and cufflinks.