Grooms Wear: Suits vs Tuxedos

Suits. Tuxedos. How to decide?

In the world of men's formalwear, it may be difficult to decide which seems a better attire for the groom. Some of the major differences call for a fashion expert or even a seamstress with a strong opinion who can point you in the right direction. But it still leaves you wondering: which, if either, would be declared the better of the two?

Fear not, brides and grooms. Today we'll match the two against each other and you can decide which is best fo your groom.

This is suits vs tuxedos. 

Photo by One Wed

The Major Difference: Formality.

It’s important to talk with your fiancé about the formality of the wedding. A more traditional wedding will generally call for the groom to wear a tux, while a semiformal allows for suits.

Photo by Kimberly Chau Photography

Let's explain why.

A major difference between a tuxedo and a suit lies in the lapel (the folded flaps of cloth on the front of the jacket). Tuxedos will have a satin lapel, satin covered buttons and a satin stripe that runs down the outside legs of the pants. Tuxedo shirts tend to have a pleated front, and tuxedo jackets typically have one button.

The lapel of a suit, on the other hand, is made of the same fabric as the suit. (See below: suit lapel.) Suit jackets will generally have two or three buttons, and suits can be worn with any kind of button-down dress shirt. It is also much easier to customize your look with a suit by changing the colors of the shirt and tie underneath the jacket.

Photo by Amy and Stuart Photography

What About the Groomsmen?

It’s up to the groom if he would like to match his groomsmen or if he’d like to be set apart from them (with a different jacket, tie, accessory, etc).

There are a number of good places to go for matching suits and tuxes. If you all can’t get your formalwear at the same shop, have the groomsmen send in their measurements. Your shop should be able to hold them on reserve until they can come in for a fitting. They may even offer you a discount!

Photo by Esther Louise Photography

Men's Wearhouse and Joseph A. Bank are among the popular purveyors of menswear. Ralph Lauren, J. Crew, as well as Nordstrom are also great places to go for your suits and tuxes!

Take a look at some online stores and begin to compare your favorite styles. Do you tend to favor the stylings of a suit? Or are you more inclined towards the dashing tuxedo?

Photo by Brosnan Photographic

Our hope is, at this point, you are a little closer in declaring a winner in the world of suits vs tuxedos. If you have any questions about menswear and wedding attire etiquette, post a comment and we'll get back to you!

Stay tuned. On Thursday, we're going to be looking at Grooms Wear: Rent vs Purchase!

Photo by Wedding Chicks