How to wear a tux is a question that arises when the occasion calls for nothing less than refined elegance. Whether you’re attending a black-tie gala, a formal wedding, or an awards night, knowing how to style a tuxedo properly is essential.
From the right shirt and bow tie to the perfect shoes and accessories, the key lies in understanding tradition while adding just the right amount of personal flair. Let’s learn more about it through this article!
How to Wear A Tuxedo Properly?
How to wear a tuxedo properly begins with understanding that a tux is not just formalwear, but also a statement of elegance and tradition. The foundation of a proper tuxedo look starts with the right fit.
The Bow Tie
Wearing a bow tie with a tuxedo is a hallmark of classic formalwear and a tradition rooted in the timeless elegance of black-tie dress codes.
A proper tuxedo look almost always calls for a black bow tie, especially if you’re attending a black-tie event. This maintains the formality and balance of the ensemble, complementing the satin lapels and often a satin waistband or cummerbund.
The most elegant option is a self-tied bow tie, which adds character and sophistication through its slightly imperfect symmetry. While pre-tied versions may offer convenience, they often lack the subtle charm and personal touch of a hand-tied piece.
Fabric also matters: a silk bow tie provides the right sheen and texture to match the tuxedo’s satin accents.
The Shirt
The shirt you wear with a tuxedo plays a crucial role in completing a polished black-tie look. You should wear a crisp, white shirt, and designed specifically for formal wear.
Unlike everyday dress shirts, a proper tuxedo shirt often features a pleated front or piqué bib, adding texture and elegance beneath the jacket.
Collar style matters, too. The wingtip collar is the most traditional, exposing the tips of the collar and offering a formal frame for the bow tie. However, a classic turndown collar is also widely accepted and can appear more contemporary and understated.
Cuffs should be French cuffs, which require cufflinks—a subtle but important detail that adds sophistication. Buttons may be concealed with a placket or replaced with studs for added formality.
Together, these elements ensure the shirt complements the tuxedo’s clean lines and refined silhouette without overpowering the ensemble.
The Jacket
The tuxedo jacket is the centerpiece of formal evening wear, and getting it right is essential. Traditionally black or midnight blue, a tuxedo jacket is defined by its sleek silhouette and satin detailing.
There are three main lapel styles: peak, shawl, and notch. Peak lapels are sharp and formal, often considered the most traditional. Shawl lapels, with their smooth, rounded edge, offer a softer, more classic touch.
Notch lapels are less formal and more commonly seen on business suits, making them less ideal for black-tie occasions.
Fit is key, the jacket should hug the shoulders, taper at the waist, and fall cleanly over the body. A single-button closure is most traditional for tuxedos, maintaining a clean, elegant front. Side or no vents at the back further refine the silhouette.
When tailored properly, the tuxedo jacket enhances posture, presence, and the overall impression of timeless sophistication.
The Pants
Tuxedo pants are designed to complement the jacket seamlessly, both in fabric and in formality. They are typically made from the same material as the jacket and feature a key detail that sets them apart from regular dress trousers.
A satin stripe running down the outer seam of each leg. This stripe aligns with the satin elements on the jacket, creating a cohesive and elegant look.
Tuxedo trousers are usually high-waisted to be worn with a cummerbund or waistcoat, helping to maintain a clean waistline with no belt loops, belts are never worn with a tuxedo. Instead, side adjusters or suspenders are used for fit.
The cut should be slim but comfortable, with a clean line that falls naturally to the shoe. A slight break or no break at all is preferred for a sharper appearance.
Ultimately, tuxedo pants are all about refinement and simplicity, enhancing the formal aesthetic without drawing attention away from the full ensemble.
Accessories
Accessories are the subtle details that elevate a tuxedo from simply formal to truly refined. When chosen thoughtfully, they add personality while still respecting black-tie traditions.
Start with the bow tie, which should be black and made of silk to match the lapel facings of the jacket. A self-tied bow tie is ideal, offering a natural, elegant asymmetry that pre-tied versions often lack.
Finally, keep your watch understated. Much like a suit, slim dress watch with a black leather strap (or none at all) is appropriate—sport watches or chunky designs break the formal rhythm of a tuxedo.
Read More: 3 Best Watches to Wear with a Suit: The Ultimate Guide to Timeless Elegance
If you’re preparing for a wedding, don’t miss these wedding watches for grooms to complete your formal ensemble in timeless style.
If you’re looking for a watch to complement your tuxedo style, you’ll find the perfect one at Luxehouze.
Luxehouze offers a wide collection of luxury watches, all guaranteed to be 100% authentic and available at the best prices. So, elevate your formal look—find your ideal timepiece at Luxehouze today!
This article is part of the Luxehouze Blog, your curated destination for luxury lifestyle insights—written by seasoned professionals and passionate enthusiasts who live and breathe refined style. Explore more stories, tips, and inspiration by browsing our full collection of articles.
