How to Make One Tuxedo Work for Every Event
Some men hesitate to buy a tuxedo, thinking they’ll only wear it for one event. However, if you find the right tuxedo, it can be a solid investment that eventually pays for itself. It’s all about the way you style your tuxedo, and despite their reputation, customizing a tuxedo look is easier than you might think.
Choosing the Right Tuxedo
It all starts with choosing the right tuxedo. You may be tempted by the flashy options, but if you want something that’s truly multipurpose, look for a classic, timeless style. You can never go wrong with black. If you don’t see yourself in a black tuxedo, consider going with a navy blue, which is still fairly versatile in terms of how you can style it.
Styling it for the Event
Make sure you’re styling your tuxedo in a way that makes sense for the event you’re attending. When you switch up the other clothing items and accessories you wear, no one will know you’re wearing the same tuxedo.
Formal Events
For black-tie events, you want a black or navy blue tuxedo. Pair it with a white shirt, a matching bowtie, and formal matching shoes. These events don’t leave much room for creativity. If the event dress code is “creative black tie,” you can play around a little more with colors and patterns. Accessories should stay on the formal side, but a nice pair of cufflinks can still help you stand out in the crowd.
Semi-Formal Events
If the dress code is semi-formal, you have more room to experiment. Consider different colors for your shirt, bow tie and shoes. A pop of color can go a long way. Just make sure those colors match, and you’ll be good to go. Consider a less formal shoe like a pair of loafers so you can combine your flair with comfort. At semi-formal events, you can explore more with pocket squares, bow ties and other accessories.
Casual Events
Some events don’t necessarily call for a tuxedo, but that doesn’t mean you can’t rock one. If you want to look your best in a tuxedo you’ve worn to other events, consider switching up the lapels. Changing your lapels to ones that fit the theme of the night or express your personal style is a surefire way to make a statement.
Maintenance and Care
There’s one thing you absolutely need to do before you can wear the same tuxedo to multiple events: take care of it! Before storing your tuxedo, remove any stains with water or a gentle stain remover like diluted vinegar or lemon juice. Then, take it to the dry cleaner. Once it’s back, make sure you’re storing it properly in a breathable garment bag that’s in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Skipping any of these steps can potentially damage your tuxedo over time.
How you wear your tuxedo and care for your tuxedo makes all the difference. The Lapel Project aims to make men’s fashion accessible, affordable and flexible by offering a variety of lapels and other accessories to help you perfect your look. Connect with us online to get started.