Custom tuxedo versus custom suit

We get asked this a lot: What is the difference between a suit and a tuxedo?

Strictly speaking, a suit is a set of outer clothes made of the same fabric and designed to be worn together, typically consisting of a jacket and trousers. So what's a tuxedo then? Even the dictionary lacks a good definition.

Definition of tuxedo:

1: a semiformal evening suit for men.

2: a men's single-breasted or double-breasted suit, usually with a black or blackish-blue jacket.

Not all that helpful in terms of demarcating a suit from a tuxedo, is it?…

Lets digress for a minute to talk origin stories. As the story goes, the tuxedo was born in the late 19th century at its namesake, Tuxedo Park, the site of an old country club in New York where the tux as we know it was purportedly first worn. How the idea for the garment design itself was arrived at, we’re not exactly sure. But can’t you just picture the faces of the other attendees when the guy in the tux walked in?

Anyway, let’s now return to the differences between a tuxedo and a suit. Essentially, a tuxedo has silk satin elements, whereas a suit traditionally does not. Silk satin is a delicate material that’s expensive to work with, which means a tuxedo is usually one of the nicest garments you can buy. The silk satin typically adorns the lapel, chest pocket, side pockets, buttons, and the pant side seam. These silk elements make a tuxedo more formal than a suit. It’s also usually worn with a bow tie instead of a tie.

The tuxedo body is normally made from a barathea weave for a number of reasons. One reason being that barathea makes a great fabric to wear because of its wrinkle resistant properties. It’s also easy to clean and care for. Barathea is a sturdy, durable fabric that lasts for years and tends to look great over many wears. It's matte rather than shiny which allows the silk satin to pop and contrast against it. 

To put it all as succinctly as we can: a tuxedo features silk satin trimmings, whereas a suit does not. A tuxedo also usually has either a peak or shawl lapel, whereas a suit typically has either a notch or peak lapels. Tuxedos also usually have two hook and bar pant closures, along with strong, sharper shoulder pads than those of a typical suit.

In the market for a custom tuxedo or suit? At Watson Ellis we not only know the difference between the two. We also offer the best quality materials and fit in both. Book a time and come see us to browse the range of what we can do for you.