What Do Tailcoats Look Like?
Tailcoats feature a knee length jacket that tapers from the mid-rift away toward the hips providing a ‘tailed’ look. They are similar to, but should not be confused with, the Tail Suit Evening Wear outfit. They have normal suit lapels, just like you'd find on any lounge suit, and typically feature one or two buttons -traditionally worn un-fastened.
They are widely available for both hire and purchase across the UK in the classic suit colours of black, dark grey, light grey and navy. Other coloured Tailcoats are about, but beware - they're not that easy to find!
Essential Tailcoat Extras
Waistcoats look fabulous with Tailcoats and are a modern alternative to the traditional cummerbunds which have long been associated with this type of wedding outfit.
The trousers that will accompany Tailcoats are normally a single base colour (matching the jacket), or striped (black and grey pinstripes are normally the order of the day).
Plain collar and winged collar shirts work well with Tailcoats and are often accompanied by a ruche or cravat. Bow ties, can be worn, but work better with the similarly styled Tail Suit.
Tailcoat Accessories
Top Hats (sometimes referred to as an ‘Ascot’) and gloves were made for Tailcoats. Whilst some Grooms, Best Men and Ushers will love the thought of parading around sporting these accessories, others will dread the thought of donning such regalia. The one thing to remember therefore is that neither the Top Hat nor gloves need to be worn all day, and can simply be carried about if necessary. OK, you will need to have at least one photo taken with you wearing them, but surely it's worth it!
How Much Will a Tailcoat Cost?
Tailcoats are normally hired for the wedding day, but some of you may wish to purchase the outfit outright, which obviously increases the cost.
For those looking to rent one or more Tailcoats, you can expect to pay in the region of £50 to £100 per outfit depending upon what is included in the package. Virtually all hire firms will include trousers as well as the jacket as part of the final total, but neckpieces, footwear, shirts, waistcoats/cummerbunds and accessories often incur an additional fee - be sure to check up front what exactly it is you are paying for.
For those Grooms looking to purchase Tailcoats for themselves or their Groomsmen, the charge for a pair of trousers and the Tailcoat itself, will normally reside in the £150 to £300 price brakcet. As with outfit rental, you will need to factor in any additional costs for other elements of the outfit.