Are you feeling fancy today? Well, time to feel a whole lot fancier!
Picking out a tuxedo shirt can be confusing. There are a lot of different styles and variations that are each dependent on a specific occasion.
But getting dressed up should be fun, not stressful. So here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect tuxedo shirt for any occasion.
When to Wear A Black Tuxedo Shirt
Whether you’re attending a black-tie wedding, work function, or simply need to look put together for your friend’s engagement party, there’s a dress shirt for you.
While black tuxedo shirts are more on the daring side, they are becoming increasingly popular. You can usually get away with wearing one to most events, aside from traditional black-tie occasions. For these, it may be wiser to opt for the classic white tuxedo shirt.
Most customizations are a personal preference. But there are more specific guidelines for how you should dress, depending on whether the occasion is traditional and formal or modern and casual.
Shirt Styles
There are 3 primary styles when it comes to choosing a dress shirt― traditional, mixed, and modern.
Certain aspects of the shirt are also dependent on the occasion, such as the collar, bib placket, cuff, and material styles.
Traditional
Traditional shirts are worn at the most formal occasions and are sometimes referred to as “black-tie” formal. Typically, these shirts will be white and occasionally pleated. They are often paired with a bowtie and cuffs, along with a black jacket.
If you’re looking for a black tuxedo shirt though, hopefully, you won’t be attending a black-tie event as it may not be considered appropriate attire.
Mixed
You can probably get away with wearing a black tuxedo shirt to semi-formal events that are not as strict. Black shirts under a tux is a growing trend that is becoming more and more acceptable.
Typically, shirts for these events will have a plain front and can be worn with or without cuffs. If your shirt has a wing-tip collar, then you should also wear a bow-tie.
As far as fabrics go, cotton is usually the most comfortable fabric as it is breathable and is usually a lot cheaper than silk alternatives. Some shirts may be comprised of a poly mix, but these will most likely result in a super sweaty evening.
Modern
Black tuxedo shirts are most commonly found at casual events. These semi-formal/informal occasions are more suited for the alternative look of a black shirt and tie.
When attending a casual event, your shirt should have a plain front, a spread collar and no cuffs. You can also get away with skipping the tie.
Finding a shirt for casual events is typically easier as there are more options and availability that align with the modern look.
Buying a Black Tuxedo Shirt
Trying on your shirt in-person is preferable when it comes to buying a tuxedo shirt. This is because one size rarely fits all, with many people having to make alterations in the length, body, and sleeves.
Some primary questions to ask yourself when choosing your shirt are:
- Will the shirt be long enough to stay tucked in?
- Should I get a regular or slim fit?
- Do the sleeves end right before my hands begin?
If you are not shopping in-person, then make sure you thoroughly read through the shirt’s measurements before buying. There are many online shops, such as Sebastian Cruz Couture, that sell custom shirts with custom sleeve lengths.
The last thing you want is to order a black tuxedo shirt and have the sleeves be too long, so make sure you have your tape measure handy!
Written by Meghan Hale, a content writer and editing machine. She is working with Deepak Shukla. You’ll find me yelling at my dog to stop barking, whether it be at the neighbours or on a long afternoon walk!