Tuxedo vs Suit: Difference and Comparison

What are some of the key differences between a tuxedo and a suit? A tuxedo and a suit are both formal attire for formal occasions but sometimes, it is a bit confusing to tell the difference between a tuxedo vs a suit.

A tux and a suit fit for special events like weddings, anniversaries, proms, or any kind of formal event. However, stepping out with a tux or suit on may be considered overdressed or underdressed based on the occasion.

Although a tuxedo and a suit are comparable in the fashion world, there are a few key differences between these two classic outfits.

What Is a Tuxedo?

A tuxedo is a formal attire worn to a formal occasion, especially one with the social elites in attendance. A tux is arguably the most formal outfit anyone can wear to a formal event.

A tuxedo is an attire you can wear to semi-formal affairs but it looks out of place- like you are overdressed. Tuxedos are stylish and classy outfits to wear for formal events such as weddings, anniversaries, proms, etc.

A tuxedo is known for its unique satin button, satin stripe down the leg of the trouser, or satin-faced lapel. This is the main distinct feature that differentiates a tuxedo from a suit.

You will find more modern tuxedoes with simple satin detailing.

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What Is a Suit?

A suit is a set of clothing that comprises trousers and a suit jacket that are made with the same textiles. It’s formal attire worn to formal events such as weddings, anniversaries, proms, etc.

Unlike tuxedos, suits come in an array of colours and different cuts and styles. Generally, a suit jacket can only have one or two buttons but a tux always has one.

One of the distinct features between a suit and a tuxedo is that a suit’s lapel doesn’t have a satin lining.

You can customize your trousers and jacket to fit perfectly with your taste. A suit can be worn with a necktie or a bow tie.

Tuxedo vs Suit: The difference between a Tuxedo Jacket and a Suit Jacket

It’s sometimes confusing to see the difference between a tuxedo and a suit. One of the most common features to differentiate between a tuxedo jacket and a suit jacket is the lapels.

A tuxedo jacket either has satin or grosgrain lapels, whereas a suit jacket has a noticeable peak lapel.

Another difference you will notice with a suit jacket and a tuxedo jacket is the number of buttons. A suit jacket can only have one, two, or more buttons but a tux always has one or two buttons.

The one-button tuxedo jacket is the most formal outfit, whereas the two-button tux jacket is less formal.

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Tuxedo vs Suit: Colours

Unlike tuxedos, suits come in a variety of colours. It’s available in classic black, navy, and any other colour from bright blue to yellow, green, and red.

On the other hand, you will find a tux in black but it’s a bit difficult to find white or midnight blue. So, you are likely only to get a tux in black or midnight blue.

Pockets

If you have noticed, the pockets on a tuxedo and suit is one of the similar features. Now what makes the difference between a suit jacket’s pocket and a tuxedo jacket’s pocket?

A tux pocket is usually trimmed with a black stain. A suit pocket is typically made from the same material as the rest of the outfit.

Sometimes a unique pocket seen on more casual suits is considered to fit for any tuxedo. You will find custom tuxedos in shops but they are designed and follow a standard pattern.

Tuxedo vs Suit: Tuxedo Trousers and Suit Trousers

You will find more modern tuxedoes with simple satin detailing.

Tuxedo trousers usually have a satin or grosgrain stripe down the side. Suit trousers do not have a stain stripe down the side.

Tux trousers are made from wool or silk, while suit trousers are typically made from fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool.

While suit trousers have a waistband made from the same fabric as the entire outfit, tux trousers are worn with a satin or grosgrain waistband.

Another difference between a tuxedo and a suit is how the trousers are worn. A tuxedo trouser is traditionally worn with braces or suspenders, whereas a suit trousers is either worn with a belt or suspenders.

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Tux Shirt and Suit Shirt

A tuxedo is the most formal outfit to wear to a formal event but if it’s worn with the wrong shirt, it will look out of place for the occasion.

Generally, a tux shirt and a suit shirt are different. Traditionally, a tuxedo shirt has a wingtip collar, a classic collar style with pointed tips.

A suit shirt on the other hand has different collar styles- such as button-down collars, point collars, and spread collars.

Another difference to notice in a tuxedo shirt and a suit shirt is the front closure.

A tuxedo shirt has a bib front- a panel of pleated fabric covering the buttons of the tux jacket. Suit shirts are known to have a plain front with no bib or pleated shirt.

Suit shirts can either have French cuffs or barrel cuffs, while tux shirts have French cuffs (cuffs that are folded back and fastened with cufflinks).

Tuxedo Shoes and Suit Shoes

A classy outfit will be out of place without the appropriate shoes to complement the looks. The difference between a tuxedo and a suit also comes down to the shoes they are worn with.

Tuxedos are styled with black patent leather or high-gloss leather oxfords or loafers.

For suit shoes, you have a variety of styles to choose from. Whether it’s oxfords loafers, derby, or brogues, it goes with a suit for any formal event.

Also Read: Prom Tuxedo vs Suit: Difference and Comparison

Tuxedo vs Suit: Ties

A tuxedo is a classy and stylish outfit for the big event. It’s an attire worn to top events celebrated each year.

Tuxedos are worn by Hollywood directors, actors, and actresses during the biggest shows in television history. These celebrities usually wear a tuxedo to award shows and galas without ties.

It’s considered classy if the celebrities wear a tux without a tie but it won’t be if you choose to wear a tux like that.

If you are going to wear a tuxedo to a wedding or any other formal event, it’s best worn with a black bow tie.

If you are planning to wear a suit to a formal event, you can choose to wear a bow tie or necktie.

Tuxedo vs Suit: When to Wear a Tuxedo or a Suit to a Wedding

When is it appropriate to wear a tuxedo or a suit to a wedding?

Firstly, you will need to look at the wedding dress code. It’s your best clue to make the best fashion decision for the event. But you also need to weigh your options.

Is the event taking place during the day? A tux is best worn when the sun goes down. Wearing a tuxedo to semi-formal affairs looks like you are overdressed for it but a suit is your best choice.

Conclusion