It’s awards season all around, and as the weather warms up, events are kicking off across every industry with formal dress codes. Since not all of us look as good as John Cena on stage wearing just a card, getting suited up in a tuxedo is a better alternative.
While the scale and form of events may have changed, the looks have not. Black tie dress codes still reflect the general style of suiting from a century ago. Even those who are bold dressers every day sometimes keep to the conservative at for formal event. But we say, stand out and be the model of formalwear in the future. Here are some suggestions on how to avoid the “penguin suit” stigma.
A well-fitted tuxedo jacket with shawl lapel in OP2050 Blanco, a faille-weave fabric meant for formalwear.
An Off-White Option
First of all, make sure your tuxedo is well-fitted. That means going to your tailor well ahead of time, and getting your tux fitted to your exact measurements. Or, if you’re renting, have it altered to your build. The last thing you want to have on the red carpet are ill-fitted pants that are too long or short.
But while that’s being sorted, consider the obvious colour option in lieu of black: the shades of white. White tie is a step up from black tie but it definitely creates a powerful style statement at any event. Rather than go for plain white, explore a slightly different hue like eggshell or ivory.
A jacket in OP1942 Jungle Denim, a cotton fabric that has a denim-like weave.
If a full white tuxedo (including pants with the satin piping) feels excessive, keep the bottom half in black or charcoal, and aim for a monochromatic palette. The white jacket not only stands out, it feels refreshing and joyful in the spring, while keeping you formally attired.
OP2543 Prism is a different take on the tuxedo, giving it a more contemporary attitude.
Spring for Another Colour
While faille weaves are the standard in tuxedo tailoring, there’s nothing keeping you from considering another fine wool fabric in lieu of the faille texture. More importantly, considering different colours apart from white may be what you need, especially if you often treat yourself to boldly-coloured suits.
Our collection of faille weaves include some serious, yet lively colours, such as a deep navy in OP2053, or a dark emerald green in OP2055. Consider what your favourite colour is, and imagine a commanding variation of that for your next tuxedo, and explore our lookbooks for more ideas. You can even consider a wool-silk blend fabric, which offers that glossy sheen that’s ideal for the cameras.
Again, we suggest that if your jacket is a non-standard colour, don’t venture too far from the classic with your pants. But do add plenty of accessories that will liven up your outfit further. Consider prints, patterns, textures and complementary tones for your black tie.
A tuxedo jacket in OP2056 Napoleon, a faille-weave fabric with straight-edged shawl lapel and cuffs.
Get the Deets
It’s all about subtle differences. So don’t go with the standard peak or shawl lapel or the single button. Try something different like a secret button or a two-by-one double-breasted variation. Consider a different shade for your satin lapels, or your cloth buttons. Add some texture to the fabric of your choice, or explore a fancy lining from our Aura collection.
While formal events do dictate a certain amount of seriousness in your dressing, it doesn’t have to take away your style. Don’t let a conservative bent rein you in from looking your best. Add your own twist to the “rules” in tailoring, to define them for others tomorrow.
Before you head to your tailor, use our Styling Tool to see just how these tuxedo fabrics will look. You can also explore each of these cloths in our lookbooks, shop them directly, and browse our Style Guide to see how else to style your formal look. And if you like what you see, contact any of our tailoring partners to create your next tuxedo today.
