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When to Wear What: Suits vs Tuxedos

groom and bride in a field smiling

Suits are becoming the new go-to for wedding attire… But is it the right choice for you?

Here are some helpful tips for distinguishing & deciding on a suit or tuxedo:

Your main goal for your wedding is to look fantastic.  Whether you are the groom, groomsmen, or a guest, what you wear to the wedding is always very important.
The biggest question however, is “Should I wear a suit or tuxedo?" That answer isn’t always that clear.

We’re here to help distinguish the difference between these two styles and on deciding which is appropriate for your wedding.

To start off, here are some pluses on choosing a suit:

1) They can be purchased as well as rented.
2) They can use them for another day, if purchased
3) They can be more accessible.
4) They can stand out from the groomsmen.

blue tuxedo with black satin lapel and black tie

Satin Lapels & Such

The main noticeable difference between suits and tuxedos is the lapel fabric. Traditional tuxedos feature either a full satin or satin trim lapel, while the lapel of a suit tends to match the jacket and pant fabric. Don’t forget about the pants! Tuxedo pants traditionally have a satin stripe down each leg. Why? So when you break it down at the reception your pants shine as bright as your dance skills.

Satin Lapels & Such

The main noticeable difference between suits and tuxedos is the lapel fabric. Traditional tuxedos feature either a full satin or satin trim lapel, while the lapel of a suit tends to match the jacket and pant fabric. Don’t forget about the pants! Tuxedo pants traditionally have a satin stripe down each leg. Why? So when you break it down at the reception your pants shine as bright as your dance skills.

different colored bow ties and long ties

Accessories

Dabble with different options on ways to accessorize.  A traditional tuxedo is worn with a pleated shirt, cummerbund, and tie/bow tie.  Nowadays, it is acceptable to switch it up and make your tuxedo style unique.  As long as your event has no set dress code, feel free to browse your options.  Add a fun bow tie or colored suspenders to personalize any look, suit or tuxedo!

Accessories

Dabble with different options on ways to accessorize.  A traditional tuxedo is worn with a pleated shirt, cummerbund, and tie/bow tie.  Nowadays, it is acceptable to switch it up and make your tuxedo style unique.  As long as your event has no set dress code, feel free to browse your options.  Add a fun bow tie or colored suspenders to personalize any look, suit or tuxedo!

black tuxedo shoes

Shoes

Tuxedos pair best with a patent leather shoe.  When choosing shoes to go with a suit you have a bit more leeway, not only in the amount of shine, but also in the style.  Suits also pair well with loafers, brown dress shoes, slip-ons, and oxfords. Put your best foot forward in the right shoe!

Shoes

Tuxedos pair best with a patent leather shoe.  When choosing shoes to go with a suit you have a bit more leeway, not only in the amount of shine, but also in the style.  Suits also pair well with loafers, brown dress shoes, slip-ons, and oxfords. Put your best foot forward in the right shoe!

wedding party holding pant leg up to show colored socks

Socks

When going with a more traditional tuxedo style, it is best to keep your socks simple.  A dark brown, blue, or black are some examples.  Choosing a suit? Go crazy!  Let’s be honest, there are some pretty funky styled socks out there, so mix it up!  Find a color that matches the bridesmaid dresses, your favorite superhero, and even the American flag.  Just please, don’t break this one rule: NO athletic socks..

Socks

When going with a more traditional tuxedo style, it is best to keep your socks simple.  A dark brown, blue, or black are some examples.  Choosing a suit? Go crazy!  Let’s be honest, there are some pretty funky styled socks out there, so mix it up!  Find a color that matches the bridesmaid dresses, your favorite superhero, and even the American flag.  Just please, don’t break this one rule: NO athletic socks..

invitation to a wedding with dress code

Dress Code

If you’re doubting your choice, it’s best to play it safe. Take a second look at the invitation to see if there was a requested dress code.  If the invitation says black tie or formal: a black tux or a dark colored suit it acceptable.  Semi-formal or dress-casual:  a suit is a great option.  You don’t want to outshine the groom, so it’s best to follow the rules.

Dress Code

If you’re doubting your choice, it’s best to play it safe. Take a second look at the invitation to see if there was a requested dress code.  If the invitation says black tie or formal: a black tux or a dark colored suit it acceptable.  Semi-formal or dress-casual:  a suit is a great option.  You don’t want to outshine the groom, so it’s best to follow the rules.

pocket watch to show time of wedding

Time of Wedding

Tuxedos and suits are as different as night and day.  A more dressy tuxedo is typically worn in the evening. However, if the wedding is held during the day a suit may be a better choice. Late afternoon wedding with an evening reception?  Feel free to choose whichever you feel more comfortable in.

Time of Wedding

Tuxedos and suits are as different as night and day.  A more dressy tuxedo is typically worn in the evening. However, if the wedding is held during the day a suit may be a better choice. Late afternoon wedding with an evening reception?  Feel free to choose whichever you feel more comfortable in.

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