Tuxedos vs Suits for a wedding? This can be a tough decision when trying to decide between a tuxedo and a suit is one of the most important choices you’ll have to make about what you wear on your wedding day.
This decision might feel challenging, particularly if you’re unsure of wedding etiquette or even the difference between a suit and a tux. That’s why our master tailors have curated this guide to help grooms like you make the right choice for their upcoming wedding. This blog will cover the difference between a wedding tuxedo and a suit, when to wear them, and how to decide which is most appropriate for you.
What is the difference between a tuxedo and a suit?
The main difference between a suit and a tuxedo is satin. A tuxedo jacket will have satin lapels and a satin stripe down the trouser leg. This satin detailing is usually black, even on different-coloured tuxedo jackets.
Alternatively, suits do not feature satin, and the lapels will be made from the same material as the rest of the suit. Tuxedos typically have satin-covered buttons, while suits have non-covered buttons.
Another difference between tuxedos and suits is that tuxedos are traditionally worn with a black bow tie. However, suits can be worn with a bow tie, a long tie, or without a tie. The shawl lapel (the continuous fabric that curves around the jacket’s collar) is also unique to tuxedo dinner jackets.
A black tux is considered more formal than a suit and is traditionally only worn at very formal evening events or occasions where formal dress codes are required.
When to wear a tuxedo to a wedding
If you are considering wearing a tuxedo to your wedding, there are specific tuxedo rules for weddings that you should be aware of.
The most important rule is that a black tuxedo is the most formal attire a person can wear to a wedding. A tuxedo is also considered primarily formal evening wear, often worn after 6pm. If your wedding is a semi-formal event or takes place during the day, then a tuxedo is probably not the most appropriate choice.
If you’re worried about investing a lot of money in a tuxedo that you might not be able to wear at future events, renting a tuxedo might be a more suitable option. Whether to rent or buy a tuxedo for your wedding also depends on your budget.
When to wear a suit to a wedding
Suits are a popular alternative to tuxedos for weddings, especially if it is a casual wedding or a daytime event.
There are so many choices of styles, materials, and colours of suits, so you’ll be able to find a suit that pairs perfectly with your wedding theme. Or, if your wedding is a formal black tie event, then a traditional dark suit can look just as stunning as a tux. There is no reason why you have to wear a tuxedo as the groom if you don’t want to.
Tuxedos vs suits for a wedding: How to decide
As the groom, it’s entirely up to you whether you wear a suit or a tuxedo on your wedding day.
You should choose the option that suits your style and that you look the best in. If you want to stand out from your guests, wearing a tux is a great choice, even if it isn’t a black tie wedding. Or, if you want to invest in an elegant luxury suit that you can wear on other occasions, then a suit might be the better choice.
However, it’s still important to follow the guidelines above about when to wear a suit or tuxedo. If you’re planning a beach wedding in the middle of the day and the rest of your guests are dressed in smart casual, wearing a formal tux might not help you stand out in the right way.
It’s also wise to make sure that, as the groom, you’re dressed more formally or equally as formal as the rest of the wedding party. If you ask your guests to wear black tie, you should opt for a distinguished tux to complete the look of your elegant wedding.
How Phillip Alexander can help
If you’re still unsure whether a tuxedo or a suit is the right choice, we can help you decide.
Philip Alexander Bespoke Tailors are experts at dressing gentlemen. We’ve been crafting bespoke wedding suits for elegant grooms since 1876. We offer various tailoring services based in Savile Row in London and Cheshire. Phillip Alexander offers various tailoring services, including bespoke suits, made-to-measure suits, and tailored suit hire.
Book an in-person or telephone consultation to speak to one of our tailors.
