The Summer Edit
Style advice
Master The Tuxedo Look
The elegance of the tuxedo stems from its simplicity – it is the ultimate classic, the one ensemble you don't tamper with.
Many men find the rules governing this attire to be somewhat complex and bothersome. However, once you understand these guidelines, it becomes the simplest and most elegant choice for your evening wear. The tuxedo's history traces back to King Edward VII, who commissioned the first tuxedo from the Savile Row house of Henry Poole, setting a trend followed by members of an exclusive country club outside Manhattan in Tuxedo. Once you have mastered the rules, you are well on your way to eliminating any evening-suit stress.
Our 9 Rules for the Tuxedo
Rule No. 1
Don't Compromise on the Rules
You must adhere to the rules concerning tuxedos. The following guidelines should be respected in your evening engagements.
Rule No. 2
Your Tuxedo Should Be Black or Dark Navy
Ideally, the tuxedo should be black, though dark navy is also a suitable choice. A black or dark navy tuxedo will withstand the test of time, whereas a coloured tuxedo may fall out of favour when fashion trends shift. White dinner jackets are an option but are only appropriate for warm-weather events. Remember, the white jacket is an alternative, not a mandate. The black jacket is perfectly suitable for any season and location and actually surpasses the formality of the white version.
Rule No. 3
Your Tuxedo Must Be Tailored to You
To ensure you look your absolute best in your tuxedo, it should be made-to-measure. As the tuxedo is now part of your leisure wear, it should be more comfortable than your casual attire, and the only way to achieve this is through a bespoke fit. Consider it a lifetime investment.
Rule No. 4
Always wear a bow tie
Thinking of wearing a tie with your tuxedo? Absolutely not! The straightforward reason for pairing a bow tie with your tuxedo is tradition; you wear a tuxedo to honour an occasion, and a bow tie to honour tradition. If you are fond of ties, we recommend opting for a formal black suit with matching accessories if it suits the occasion.
Rule No. 5
Your bow tie must be a real bow tie
We recommend wearing a self-tied bow tie. If you're unsure how to tie one, Google can be your guide. It is no more difficult than tying your shoes. However, if you prefer not to learn, we also offer pre-tied bow ties, but you'll miss out on the satisfaction of untying it on the dancefloor.
Rule No. 6
Cummerbund pleats facing up
The cummerbund was originally a girdle, designed to provide uplift. It's a relatively recent addition to evening attire. Wearing a cummerbund is not obligatory and should only be worn with a single-breasted tuxedo. Feel free to opt for just a bow tie and black braces if you decide to forgo the cummerbund.
Rule No. 7
White hanky and double cuffs
You will look your best with a tuxedo shirt featuring double cuffs (French cuffs). Add a smart pair of cufflinks to complete the ensemble. Always wear a classic white pocket square in cotton or silk. A white pocket square is an essential component of every man's wardrobe and is highly versatile.
Rule No. 8
Your socks must be black
We aim for aesthetic unity, so there should be no interruption below the trouser leg. We offer both cotton and merino wool socks. For your tuxedo, we recommend merino socks as they ensure your feet breathe and allow you to remove your shoes confidently without worrying about unpleasant odours.
