Cutaway and Morning Coat Etiquette

A morning coat is worn primarily at special or official occasions that take place during the day, such as weddings, royal visits and horse races. Morning coat etiquette is also referred to as the "morning coat dress code".

Unlike a tailcoat and a tuxedo, a morning coat may not be worn in the evening. It is therefore important to understand this dress code well.

The iconic coat of the suit

A morning suit consists of three parts. The most characteristic piece is the long coat, known as the morning coat. According to etiquette, this coat must be black.

Its hallmarks are the short, rounded fronts and the long back. The coat has just one button.

Morning coat shirt and waistcoat

Under the coat you wear a classic white shirt with a concealed placket, double cuffs and a turn-down collar.

Over this you wear a grey waistcoat. It must be plain — so without a pattern or stripe.

Morning coat trousers

Morning coat trousers are grey with subtle black stripes. They must not have turn-ups.

For occasions of mourning, plain grey trousers may be worn.

Accessories for the morning coat

According to etiquette, a morning coat is not complete without accessories. Think of gloves, a tie and a hat.

The morning coat at a wedding

Have you been invited to a wedding with a morning coat dress code? Take care: a morning coat may not be worn after sunset.

Are you organising a wedding yourself? Let your guests know they will need a second outfit for the evening.