The History of the Tuxedo

The Long and Fascinating History of the Tuxedo: A Guide to Its History, Development, and its Place in Fashion

The tuxedo has been a popular choice of eveningwear since the late 1800s, and remains a timeless formal wear option for special occasions to this day. But what are the origins of this iconic garment? What has been its progress from then to now? And why has it remained so popular for so long?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the development of the tuxedo, from its beginnings as a standout uniform, to its role as a formal eveningwear fashion staple.

A Brief History of the Tuxedo

The tuxedo was adopted from the informal attire first worn in the late 19th century by the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) in Tuxedo Park, New York. The Prince’s attire was revolutionary at the time, as the look combined a semi-formal coat and tailcoat with trousers instead of knee breeches, which were the usual choice of formal eveningwear at the time. The Prince’s “informal evening dress” became the dominant style of eveningwear in America by the 1930s and in the United Kingdom by 1937.

The Rise of Elegant Eveningwear

As the tuxedo became more popular, it inspired the development of other formalwear items. In the early 20th century, the tuxedo became even more refined and sophisticated, with the addition of various tailored details such as the peak and notch lapels, the single-breasted waistcoat, and the introducing of plate buttons. This new, elegant tuxedo look became a sought-after eveningwear option for the wealthy and influential.

Tuxedo as a Fashion Trend to This Day

Today, the tuxedo continues to be a popular choice for formal occasions. Celebrities often wear tuxedos for red carpet events, and many of today’s best-dressed men choose to wear a tuxedo for weddings and other special events.

The tuxedo has become a staple in the wardrobe of the modern man, with many designs and styles to choose from.

Essential Basic Accessories for the Perfect Tuxedo Look

When it comes to nailing that sophisticated tuxedo look, there are some essentials that you’ll need:

• A crisp dress shirt: Make sure your dress shirt is crisp, clean and well-fitted. Your shirt should be tailored and versatile enough to fit with any tuxedo style you choose.
• A classic black bow tie: The traditional tuxedo look is completed with a black bow tie, which is both classic and timeless. Bow ties come in a range of styles, including solid, polka-dotted, plaid and striped.
• Stylish dress shoes: Finish off your outfit with dress shoes in black or burgundy leather. Choose from leather court shoes, derby shoes, Oxfords and more.

The Timeless Appeal of the Tuxedo Look

The classic tuxedo look is timeless and will undoubtedly remain a popular formalwear option for many years to come. With its classic styling and its versatility in terms of accessorizing, the tuxedo is the perfect choice for any formal occasion.