EVENING WEAR

Dinner Suit

AKA: ‘DJ’, ‘Tuxedo’, ‘Black Tie’

Intro: The Dinner Jacket is the sophisticated choice, and is ideal for any Wedding taking place on an Evening or for those of you who think you could be the next James Bond. Often used as a ‘theme’, where all the male wedding guests are asked to go ‘black tie’, this is the only style of male attire that we have ever seen used in this way.

The Look: Available in single or doubled-breasted, the bottom of the jacket comes down to around the crotch area and will feature usually only one, two or three buttons (two, four or six for double breasted ones). The lapels are an interesting feature of the Dinner Suit with both normal and shawl (a more rounded lapel with a ‘draped’ look) versions available – it is possible to get a satin finish to the lapels that will match perfectly with the traditional dress trousers (see below). Normally only available in two colours, black and white – the white version is often referred to by UK outfitters as a ‘tux’ with the black one called a Dinner Suit or DJ.

Essential Extras: We have already mentioned the traditional dress trousers that are worn with a Dinner Suit – the trousers are black and feature a thin black satin band running down the outside of each leg from waist to toe. Waistcoats (the more conservative ones) sometimes accompany a Dinner Suit although the norm is to choose a cummerbund. Bow ties are the neckpiece of choice and they should match either the waistcoat or the cummerbund.

Finishing Touches: Keep it simple – a handkerchief and smart pair of cufflinks should do the trick.

Still haven’t found what you are looking for? Check out the article on ‘Morning Wear’ and ‘Highland Wear’ for more ideas and inspirations.