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Buy a tuxedo
If you're looking for the perfect outfit for a formal occasion, The Garrison is the place to be. On this page you will find our extensive selection of tuxedos. We also provide more background information about the tuxedo. This way you are well prepared for buying a tuxedo that meets your wishes. Read quickly and discover more!
What is a Tuxedo?
Good to start with what a tuxedo actually is: a tuxedo, also known as smoking, is a formal outfit that is worn on special occasions, such as galas, weddings and other formal events. It consists of a black or dark blue jacket with satin lapels, matching trousers with a single satin trim down the side of the legs and a white shirt with a concealed placket and cuffs. You can label the tuxedo as one of the most elegant outfits for men.
What is the difference between a tuxedo and a suit?
A common question is: what is the difference between a suit and a tuxedo? The answer is simple, namely the presence of satin. A tuxedo has satin lapels and satin piping on the side of the trousers. In addition, a tuxedo is meant for the evening, while a suit is suitable for any time of the day. While a black suit at a Black-Tie optional event is acceptable, it is not an imitation tuxedo. As long as you don't wear a black bow tie, this is a good choice.
Wearing a tuxedo is really reserved for formal events, such as a black-tie wedding, prom or a night out to the opera. A suit can also be worn to formal events, such as business meetings, appointments or even dates. In addition, a tuxedo has satin buttons, pockets and lapels, while a suit does not contain satin. When in doubt about what to wear, remember that satin is the difference between a suit and a tuxedo.
The history of the tuxedo jacket
The tuxedo jacket has its origins in the Victorian era (1837-1901), where it was worn by English gentlemen in the cigar room. It was a functional piece of clothing that protected the clothing they wore underneath from smoke and falling ashes. It later became more popular thanks to Edward VII (Prince of Wales), who commissioned Henry Pool to make a blue silk tuxedo jacket, which he often wore to meals. The tuxedo became increasingly popular. This immediately confirmed that the jacket of a tuxedo did not necessarely have to be black, but that also blue was becoming more and more popular. While there are still many style etiquettes regarding the tuxedo, the standards have become less strict over the years.
Although the tuxedo jacket is nowadays mainly regarded as a fashion item and is worn during gala’s, it is important to keep in mind that it was originally intended as protection against smoke and ash. However, most fabrics do not offer good protection, especially when it comes to cheaper tuxedos. It is good to keep in mind that at The Garrison we only use high-quality materials. For example, a real tuxedo jacket is made of heavy silk or cotton velvet, so that you keep your clothing free of smoke. Fortunately, due to the decrease in the number of smokers, this is less important than it used to be.
When do you wear a tuxedo?
A tuxedo is a suit suitable for formal events such as weddings, galas, premieres and balls. The tuxedo became popular in England in the nineteenth century as the suit for formal wear and became a part of international menswear. Wearing a tuxedo has always been limited to the evening. The original function of these elegant clothes was to replace the suit that men wore all day, allowing them to leave behind the dirt and smell of a long day at work.
Today, a tuxedo is considered the most formal option and is reserved for black-tie events. These are often galas, award ceremonies and extravagant weddings, where a classic outfit is most suitable. While a tuxedo is suitable for evening occasions, suits are suitable for any time of the day and can be worn at less formal events such as business meetings and dates. It is important to remember that if the invitation to an event does not clearly state that there is a black-tie dress code, wearing a tuxedo as a guest may be unnecessary and a nicely cut men's suit is sufficient.
The fabrics of a tuxedo
A traditional tuxedo is made of wool and sometimes silk. The use of quality materials is of great importance when producing a tuxedo, as this fabric emphasizes the luxurious feel of the outfit. The wool used is often of a fine quality and has a soft texture. Silk is usually added to the lapel and trim of the pants to add extra shine.
When choosing the fabric for a tuxedo, it is important to consider the quality and durability of the fabric. A high-quality fabric not only lasts longer, but also offers more comfort and a better fit. In addition, the choice of fabric may depend on the occasion for which the tuxedo is worn. For example, a heavy wool fabric is suitable for a winter wedding, while a lighter fabric is better for a summer black-tie occasion.
There are also modern alternatives to the traditional fabrics used in tuxedo making. We use synthetic materials or blends of wool and synthetic fibers to create a lighter and more breathable fabric, for example for summer. These materials are often easier to maintain and clean than traditional fabrics. View our tuxedos at the top of the page and discover which high-quality materials our tuxedos are made of. We consciously choose sustainable materials, so that you can enjoy your tuxedo for an extra long time. Below you can see an example of our popular tuxedos.
What shoes do you wear with a tuxedo?
Under a tuxedo, it is important to wear propershoes to make a good impression at a formal occasion. Although there are many different shoes that you can wear, the classic, black patent leather shoes remain the best choice. Wearing these shoes adds a touch of elegance to the outfit and is also a timeless choice that never goes out of style. Research shows that 75% of people who wear a tuxedo choose patent leather shoes to complete their look. But if you can't find patent leather shoes or don't want to spend a lot of money on them, black shoes made of smooth leather, of course without striking details, are also a good option. Keep in mind that the shoes under a tuxedo should always be black and they should be made of leather, otherwise it will not meet the style etiquettes. Do you want to give your outfit an extra touch? Then choose shoes with a light shine.
Do you want to buy a tuxedo? Of course you can do that cheaply at The Garrison
Do you want to buy a new tuxedo? Then you now know exactly what a tuxedo is, when you wear it and which shoes you wear it with. On this page we have explained all information about the tuxedo in as much detail as possible. This way you are well prepared when you purchase a new tuxedo. Take a quick look at our tuxedos at the top of this page to discover our full collection of tuxedos. Do you want to view all our three-piece suits? Then be sure to look around our three piece suits category page. Any questions? Then simply contact us.