Palm Beach, FL (PRWEB) December 22, 2012
There comes a time in every mans life when he will probably be called on to wear a tuxedo. This old classic form of men’s dressing will always have a place in one’s wardrobe. Tuxedos have fallen from grace over the years, considered anachronistic, overly formal even pass?. On the other hand, they are an absolutely fabulous example of formal menswear when executed properly.
Tuxedos themselves are pretty non-changing, with little variation in designs outside of a few salient points. A tuxedo is typically a black men’s suit with silk or satin lapel facings, and pants with piping along the sides that match the lapels. Creative linings and lapels allow some freedom to the designer, but tuxedo designs are not typically as varied as business men’s suits. A peaked lapel is considered standard, though a shawl collar is a very retro, very fashionable alternative. Notch lapels are considered unusual. They can also be vented or un-vented. Whether double breasted or single breasted, one must button-up.
Traditionally, the shirt worn with a tuxedo has a wing-tip collar, with French cuffs and button studs. These days anything is acceptable as long as its white, and a placket conceals its buttons. Pleated or ruffed fronts are a bit more difficult to wear but are a matter of personal choice. Turned-down spread-collars are considered standard, while a wing tip collar adds an undeniable sense of old-world style. If one wants to be safe, a plain-fronted white dress shirt with placket and French cuffs is the modern standard, and wont find any detractors in the arena of men’s style.
The bow tie is the gold standard when it comes to neck wear that accompanies a tux. Usually made of black silk, your bow tie should match your cummerbund and/or your vest. Tie your own, or wear one that comes pre-tied. There are some occasions and some personalities that allow for a non-matching set of tie/cummerbund or vest. As for the cummerbund, one is always expected to wear it, or a waistcoat, but never both. The cummerbund isn’t meant to be a belt-replacement. Its purely decorative, as is the waistcoat.
Some time ago, one was expected to wear court shoes to a black tie affair. Court shoes are these funny looking slip-ons in black patent leather with bows on them. These have fallen out of favor and modern men prefer something more familiar. Patent leather is expected, but nobodys going to fret if one is wearing a nicely polished pair of Oxfords or a subdued pair of plain lace-ups. The key element here is subdued. Think subtle, classic, and understated. In fact, most modern men prefer regular leather to patent leather to finish off the ensemble.
Of course, some men may opt for a little more panache in the footwear department. FashionMenswear has many great styles that fit the bill. Silk socks are the perfect choice for that “dressed up” effect. FashionMenswear is here to help all customers look and feel their best whatever the occasion and budget so enjoy and take all the credit!