Complete Style Guide: Tuxedo Types, Colors, & More

Published on July 19, 2024

Friends at black tie in white tuxedo dress, black and white men's tuxedos, and women's velvet tuxedo

The Tuxedo Need-to-Knows

When it comes to dressing up for a formal event, nothing beats the classic tuxedo. But did you know there are different styles of men’s tuxedos and women’s tuxedos to choose from? Each style has its own unique look and feel. The main lapel styles—peak, notch, and shawl—each bring something special to the table and can suit different kinds of events and personal tastes. Plus, tuxedos come in various colors, from traditional black and midnight blue to more daring options like white, burgundy, and other contemporary shades. Choosing the right color can really set the tone for your look and match the vibe of the event.

In this style guide, we'll discuss the different types of tuxedos and their colors, helping you pick the perfect one for your next big occasion. We’ll break down the key features of each lapel style, suggest the best color choices for different events, and give you tips on how to complete your outfit with the right accessories. Whether you're getting ready for a wedding, a gala, or any formal event, this guide will help you make a stylish and confident choice.

Key Takeaways

Opt for a tuxedo style that matches the formality of your event, whether it's a classic black tuxedo for formal affairs or a colored/patterned option for more relaxed settings.
Pay attention to details like lapel types (peak, notch, shawl) to enhance your tuxedo's overall look and feel.
Consider the season and venue when choosing your tuxedo color and fabric to ensure comfort and appropriateness.
Explore modern trends such as slim-fit cuts and alternative colors beyond traditional black and navy for a contemporary twist.
Certain upscale events, such as black-tie weddings, galas, charity balls, operas, fundraising events, and rep carpet events, call for tuxedos to match the grandeur of the occasion.

What Is a Tuxedo?

A tuxedo is a type of formalwear that's perfect for formal wedding attire and black-tie events, making it the go-to choice for fancy occasions. What sets a tuxedo apart are its key features, like satin accents along the pants, satin lapels, and satin-covered buttons, which give it that sharp, polished look.

Tuxedos come with different types of lapels:

Notch lapel: This has a small V-shaped cut where the lapel meets the collar. It's the most versatile and works for both formal and semi-formal events.
Peak lapel: This lapel has pointed edges that face upwards, giving a more formal and elegant look.
Shawl lapel: This one has a smooth, rounded edge without any cuts or points, perfect for a sleek, classic vibe.

The jackets can also be single-breasted or double-breasted:

Single-breasted jacket: This style has a single row of buttons and a narrow overlap of fabric. It's the most common and suits almost any formal event.
Double-breasted jacket: This tuxedo style has two rows of buttons and a wider overlap of fabric, giving a more formal and bold appearance.

Posing in mirror wearing men's burgundy shawl lapel tuxedo

Man taking mirror selfie wearing double breasted peak lapel black tuxedo and black tie accessories

Left: Single breasted shawl lapel tuxedoRight: Double breasted peak lapel tuxedo

What Are the Different Types of Tuxedos?

When it comes to tuxedos, there's a wide variety to choose from, each offering its own unique style and perfect for different occasions. Whether you're aiming for classic sophistication or a modern twist, there's a tuxedo out there to match your taste and the event. Here are some of the most popular types of tuxedos:

Classic black tuxedo

The classic black tuxedo is the epitome of sophistication and elegance. It's the go-to choice for formal events, exuding timeless charm. With its sleek black jacket and pants, often paired with a crisp white dress shirt and a black bowtie, this style is perfect for any black-tie event. Its simplicity and refined look make it a staple in men's formalwear.

White tuxedo

A white tuxedo typically features a white jacket paired with black tuxedo pants. This style is often chosen for warm-weather events or destination weddings. The contrast between the white jacket and black pants creates a striking and elegant look that stands out while maintaining a sense of formality and style.

Velvet tuxedo

The velvet tuxedo is a luxurious choice, often reserved for winter or colder events. Velvet jackets, available in various colors like deep blue or burgundy, add a rich texture and warmth to your outfit. This style is perfect for making a statement at holiday parties or winter weddings, offering a blend of comfort and sophistication.

Modern tuxedo

Modern tuxedos offer a contemporary, tailored look. They feature narrower lapels, minimal padding, and a slim-fit construction, providing a sleek and stylish silhouette. These tuxedos are perfect for those who want a fresh and up-to-date appearance, ideal for both traditional and modern formal events.

Colored tuxedo

Tuxedos aren't just limited to classic black or navy. They can come in various colors and patterns, such as plaid, or shades like burgundy or dark green. Colored tuxedos are great for less formal events or themed parties, allowing you to express your personality and stand out from the crowd while still looking sharp and put-together.

Cool women's white tuxedo with wide leg tuxedo pants, longline jacket, and peak lapel

Groomsman wearing blue suit with suspenders and groom wearing navy blue tuxedo for wedding

Left: Women's white tuxedo pantsuit for a clean and cool or bridal lookRight: Men's navy blue tuxedo for a subtly colorful but still traditional look

FAQs: Tuxedo Styles

Tuxedos are the ultimate in formalwear and are often required for some of the most prestigious and elegant events. Here are some occasions where a tuxedo is a must:

Black-tie weddings and events: Tuxedos are the standard attire for black-tie weddings and events. These occasions call for the utmost sophistication, and a tuxedo ensures you meet the dress code perfectly.
Galas: High-profile galas, often held to raise funds or honor achievements, are prime events for wearing a tuxedo. The formal atmosphere demands the elegance that only a tuxedo can provide.
Charity events: Many charity events, especially those with a black-tie dress code, require attendees to wear tuxedos. This formalwear adds to the sense of importance and grandeur of the occasion.
Balls: Traditional balls, such as debutante balls or masquerade balls, are events where tuxedos are not just appropriate but expected. They add to the overall elegance and historic charm of these gatherings.
Operas: Attending an opera is a cultural and sophisticated experience that often calls for formal attire. A tuxedo is the perfect choice to match the grandeur of the opera house setting.
Red carpet events: If you find yourself attending a red carpet event, such as a movie premiere or an awards ceremony, a tuxedo is essential. These high-profile events demand the best in formalwear to match the glamorous atmosphere.
Prom: For many, prom is one of the first occasions that call for a tuxedo. It’s a night to look your best and make lasting memories, and a tuxedo for prom ensures you do so in style.

Understanding when to wear a tuxedo helps you navigate the difference between formal vs. semi-formal attire. While semi-formal events might allow for a suit and tie or similar cocktail attire, formal occasions listed above require the elevated elegance of a tuxedo.

A cummerbund is a broad, pleated sash worn around the waist to cover the waistband of your tuxedo pants, often matching your bowtie. While traditional cummerbunds are less common in current fashion, they can still be a great way to get even more formality out of your tuxedo outfit, add a little something extra, and get a classic look at strict black-tie events.

A tuxedo vest, or waistcoat, is a sleeveless garment worn over your dress shirt and under your jacket. Vests cover the waistband and offer a modern, sleek appearance, suitable for black-tie weddings, galas, and proms. Currently, vests are more fashionable than cummerbunds. The choice between them depends on your personal style and the event. Opt for a cummerbund for a timeless look or a vest for a contemporary one.

Accessorizing a tuxedo is key to achieving a polished and sophisticated look for formal occasions. Here are some tips:

Bowtie: A bowtie is essential for a tuxedo and should typically be black to match the classic look. Depending on your preference and skill level, you can choose between a self-tie or a pre-tied bowtie.
Cufflinks: Cufflinks add a touch of elegance to your outfit. Opt for classic styles in silver or black to complement the formal nature of the tuxedo. They should match other metal accents like your watch or belt buckle.
Pocket square: A pocket square adds flair to your tuxedo jacket. It should coordinate with your shirt or bowtie, either matching or complementing the color. Fold it neatly and place it in your breast pocket.
Tie bar: If you opt for a tie to pair with your tuxedo, a tie bar adds a subtle yet functional detail to your outfit. It keeps your necktie in place and adds a touch of sophistication. Choose a slim, understated design that matches your other accessories.
Boutonniere: For special occasions like weddings or proms, pinning a boutonniere adds a stylish touch. Coordinate its color with your date’s attire or the overall theme of the event.

For a tuxedo, the ideal choice is, fittingly, a tuxedo shirt, which is known for having French cuffs and removable, decorative shirt studs down the center in place of visible buttons. A French cuff dress shirt, which has no studs and does requires cufflinks, is a simple, sleek way to add a refined touch to complete your formal attire with understated elegance. Another option is always a plain white button-up collared dress shirt. This classic shirt perfectly complements the formal nature of the tuxedo ensemble, ensuring a timeless look. With any of these three shirt types, the simplicity of the white shirt allows the focus to remain on the tuxedo jacket and accessories, making it a versatile option that pairs well with any color or style of tuxedo, from traditional black to more contemporary choices. Look for a shirt with a classic spread or wingtip collar that frames your face elegantly and accommodates a bowtie comfortably.

Man jumping and dancing while getting ready for black tie wedding in burgundy tuxedo

Details of a men's black velvet tuxedo outfit with a bowtie and French cuffs

Left: A whimsical take on a classic with a burgundy tuxedoRight: Adding in texture with a black velvet tuxedo

Finding the Right Tuxedo Style for You

Choosing the perfect tuxedo is about more than just the right fit—it’s about finding a style that reflects your personality and matches the occasion. Whether you prefer the timeless sophistication of a classic black tuxedo or you’re drawn to the bold statement of a colored or patterned option, SuitShop offers a diverse selection for both men and women. Our Fit Finder and Fit Guide tools are designed to make your selection process seamless, ensuring your tuxedo not only looks impeccable but feels comfortable and tailored to perfection. At SuitShop, we’re here to help you look your best and feel confident at every formal event.