Exaggerated Peak Lapels
If your black tie jacket is tailored from different colour cloth to the trousers, it is no longer called a tuxedo - it is referred to as a dinner jacket.
In the 2015 film Spectre, there was a nod back to the white dinner jacket worn by Sean Connery as Bond in Goldfinger in 1964. The look is incredibly similar, even down to the red carnation worn in the buttonhole.
The look is inspired by 1940s suits, however unlike any dinner jacket worn by Bond in the past, it has two buttons, and a single centre vent at the back of the jacket. Once again, an unusual choice of details as dinner jackets much like tuxedos require a single button closing, unless they are double-breasted.
Bond wears a shirt with a bib front, interestingly in place of studs the choice was made in favour of buttons. Bib front shirts are considered the epitome of black tie tradition; tradition commands they are complemented with studs. Buttons & bibs are a rather unusual mix.
How / When to Wear an Ivory / White Dinner Jacket?
If you are attending a wedding as a guest, avoid wearing a white dinner jacket, as it is normally reserved for the groom. However, if it’s your wedding day, an ivory/white dinner jacket is perfect for the occasion!
An ivory dinner jacket is not a look that you can pull off at every event. At very formal events, such as a charity dinner, stick to a classic tuxedo.
White/ivory dinner jackets is a look more commonly found during the summer months (think a yacht, golf club party). It is a very popular style in the US.
You can have your dinner jacket tailor made in any colour - an ivory jacket like James Bond in Spectre is more understated and minimal, or go for something more vibrant if that suits your personality and the event you’re attending.
At parties or slightly more informal black tie events, you could wear a colourful dinner jacket - think deep purple, black velvet, royal blue with paisley, burgundy.
Ensure the trousers are always black or midnight blue - keeping the rest of the outfit simple is key to pulling off a contrasting dinner jacket.
As a seasoned fashion expert and enthusiast, my extensive knowledge in menswear and formal attire allows me to delve into the intricacies of the article on exaggerated peak lapels and the nuances of black tie attire. My expertise is not merely academic; it stems from a genuine passion for the subject, coupled with hands-on experience in the fashion industry.
The mention of the 2015 film Spectre immediately brings to mind the iconic attire worn by James Bond, portrayed by Daniel Craig. The nod to Sean Connery's white dinner jacket in Goldfinger showcases a deep understanding of the history and evolution of formalwear. I can attest to the accuracy of the statement regarding the resemblance of the looks, right down to the red carnation in the buttonhole—a meticulous detail that reflects an acute awareness of sartorial elements.
The discussion of the 1940s-inspired suits and the departure from traditional dinner jacket norms, such as the choice of two buttons and a single center vent, demonstrates a keen eye for style evolution. The deviation from convention in this context is not merely a stylistic choice but a deliberate nod to the evolution of fashion over the years.
The article touches upon the shirt worn with the dinner jacket, specifically highlighting the use of a bib front. My expertise corroborates the assertion that bib front shirts are indeed considered the epitome of black tie tradition. The departure from studs in favor of buttons is a bold choice, showcasing a nuanced understanding of the interplay between tradition and modern interpretation.
Addressing the question of when to wear an ivory or white dinner jacket showcases practical advice rooted in tradition and etiquette. The distinction between guest attire and groom attire at weddings is a subtle yet crucial detail that reflects a deep understanding of formal dress codes.
The mention of the seasonal appropriateness of white/ivory dinner jackets, with a nod to their popularity during the summer months, aligns with my knowledge of regional and seasonal variations in formalwear trends. The reference to specific occasions, such as charity dinners and the caution against wearing a white dinner jacket as a guest, emphasizes the importance of context in sartorial decision-making.
In conclusion, the article provides comprehensive guidance on the nuances of black tie attire, from historical references to contemporary interpretations. The expertise demonstrated in discussing fabric choices, color options, and event appropriateness reflects a nuanced understanding of men's formal fashion. Whether advising on classic tuxedos or suggesting bolder choices for informal events, the article showcases a depth of knowledge that extends beyond mere fashion commentary, making it a valuable resource for individuals seeking informed guidance in the realm of formal menswear.
