Tailcoat
The only formal suit worn during the day. Classic, stylish, and traditional.
A tailcoat is mainly worn during special or official occasions that take place during the day. Think of weddings, royal visits, and horse races. The tailcoat etiquette is also called ‘morning coat dress code.’
Unlike a morning suit and a tuxedo, it is not allowed to wear a tailcoat in the evening. Therefore, it is important to understand this dress code well.
The tailcoat is the only formal day suit and is worn exclusively before sunset.
Iconic jacket of the suit
A tailcoat consists of three parts. The most characteristic part is the long jacket, also called the tailcoat. According to etiquette, this jacket must be black.
Characteristic are the short rounded front panels and the long back. The jacket has only one button.
Tailcoat shirt and waistcoat
Under the jacket, you wear a classic white shirt with concealed buttons, double cuffs, and a spread collar.
Over that, you wear a gray waistcoat. It must be plain — without pattern or stripe.
- White shirt
- Double cuff
- Plain gray waistcoat
- Patterned waistcoat
- Casual shirt
- Wrong fit
Tailcoat trousers
The tailcoat trousers are gray with subtle black stripes. They must not have cuffs.
At mourning occasions, plain gray trousers may be worn.
Accessories with the tailcoat
According to etiquette, a tailcoat is not complete without accessories. Think of gloves, a tie, and a hat.
- Gray gloves
- Gray tie
- Top hat (cylinder)
- Black shoes
- Black gloves for mourning
- No casual shoes
- No wrong colors
Wear black gloves at mourning occasions and gray ones at festive events.
Tailcoat at a wedding
Have you received an invitation to a wedding with a morning coat dress code? Then pay close attention: a tailcoat may not be worn after sunset.
Organizing a wedding yourself? Inform your guests that they will need a second outfit for the evening.
A tuxedo is the perfect alternative to a tailcoat after sunset.