Men’s formalwear etiquette can sometimes be difficult to navigate, especially if you’re more of a casual dresser. But if you have a wedding or other special event coming up, and the dress code is black tie, then you’ll need to get up to speed.
One of the big questions is – do you wear a waistcoat with a tuxedo? Read on for a walk-through of the rules, dos and don’ts, and top tips for wearing a tuxedo with a waistcoat.
The Traditional Rules on Waistcoats and Tuxedos
First things first, you definitely can wear a waistcoat with a tuxedo. Get the styling right and avoid some of the most common faux pas, and it can really elevate your black tie suit with an extra touch of elegance.
The main black tie rule to remember is – choose a waistcoat or a cummerbund, but never both.
The aim is to cover the waistband and prevent any shirt showing once the suit jacket is closed, so you really don’t need both. It will not only look odd, but also add unnecessary bulk to your silhouette around the waist, spoiling the otherwise pristine cut of your suit.
Other traditional etiquette rules to remember with waistcoats and tuxedos:
- Your waistcoat should be the same fabric and colour as your suit jacket and trousers
- The best colour for a waistcoat is black to match your tux. Contrasting colours can work, but it’s a difficult look to pull off.
- The waistcoat should be long enough to cover the shirt-trouser junction, without any shirt showing in between.
What Waistcoat to Wear With a Tuxedo
The waistcoats worn as part of a three-piece tuxedo suit are a little different to other kinds of formalwear waistcoats or vests. They’re usually quite structured, as well as being cut lower in the front to showcase the bow tie and shirt front.
Waistcoats look best when made from the same fabric as the tuxedo jacket, for a cohesive look. You can choose them with lapels to mirror the style of the jacket, or without for a more streamlined silhouette.
All of this is why it’s best to buy or hire a black tuxedo waistcoat as part of a three-piece suit, rather than getting it separately. This guarantees a match in the fabric and colour. Remember – not all blacks are the same, and you don’t want to end up with a mismatch which shows up on photographs after the event.
A prime example of how to nail the look is our Neston Black three-piece tuxedo, where all three pieces are made of the same high quality fabric in a beautiful, subtle check pattern.
When a Tuxedo Works Better Without a Waistcoat
While a waistcoat is a great companion for a tux, it’s not obligatory to wear one. In fact, there are lots of occasions when a tuxedo without a waistcoat looks better.
For example:
- For events in spring and summer, where temperatures are too warm to be wearing extra layers
- When wearing a double-breasted jacket, as this already covers the transition between shirt and trousers, so there’s no need for a waistcoat
- When you’re going for a modern, minimalist look, where a cummerbund is just a little more 007 than a waistcoat.
Cummerbund or Waistcoat, Which Should You Choose?
Whether you go for a cummerbund or waistcoat will mainly come down to your personal style, and what you feel comfortable in. The event you’re attending will also be a key consideration.
A cummerbund tends to work best for:
- Black-tie weddings (especially in the warmer months)
- Formal dinners
- Galas
- Opera or theatre evenings.
Whereas a waistcoat is often preferred for:
- Weddings
- Winter formal events
- Evening receptions
- Occasions where the jacket may be removed.
This last one is important, as wearing a waistcoat keeps your outfit looking finished even if the jacket comes off minutes into the event.
Black or Coloured, Picking the Right Tuxedo Waistcoat
If you’re attending a black tie event in a tuxedo, the decision is simple – wear a black waistcoat to match your black jacket and trousers.
This is a classic look that will never be out of place. If it’s your first time in a tux, this will always be the safest option.
If you’re interested in something a little different though, there are options. You can choose a three-piece in a different colour, such as our Neston Navy suit in a deep, sumptuous navy blue.
Contrasting your waistcoat with your tux isn’t commonly done, as it’s very difficult to pull off. There’s always the risk of spoiling the suit. If you do want to give it a try, it’s best to get some expert styling advice.
Book an appointment with Groom Hire to talk through your next look.
Key Takeaways
- You can wear a waistcoat with a tuxedo, but it’s optional rather than a black tie essential
- Choose either a waistcoat or a cummerbund – never wear both together
- A men’s men’s tuxedo waistcoat should match the suit in fabric and colour for a cohesive look
- A black waistcoat is the classic choice for a black tuxedo
- A waistcoat should fully cover the waistband, with no shirt visible
- Skip the waistcoat with a double-breasted tuxedo, as the jacket already covers the waistband
- Choose a waistcoat for occasions where you may remove your jacket, as it keeps your outfit looking polished.
