There is nothing that gets a woman’s attention quite well as a man in a tuxedo. One man perfected the art of a well-worn tux - James Bond. No matter what Bond era you favor, there was nothing better than watching 007 walk (or swim, or parachute) into a party and see women swoon.
To get your own swoon-worthy look, there is one gentlemen’s rules to follow: NEVER wear a belt with a tuxedo. In fact, actual tuxedo pants do not even have belt loops. This is where suspenders are a must have. They keep your pants at the correct rise without cinching in that waist which can cause an unflattering silhouette. You can then add a cumberbund or vest if you prefer to complete your suit.
When it comes to suspenders, the selection process is based on the tuxedo pants and your own personal preference. Some pants will come with buttons pre-sewn into them specifically for you to use them with suspenders. Others made require either having your tailor sew the buttons on for you, or simply using clip-on suspenders. Another thing to consider is the color of the suspender - gentlemen’s rules suggest that white or black is the traditional way to go. However, you can add a personal touch to your suit with a fun color or pattern, especially since this is a foundation piece that very few people will see.
Below we’ve selected a few of our own suspenders that we love paired with tuxedos:
Jet Set - Classic Black Suspenders- These are a great example of the classic look we mentioned above. You know what they say, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Skull and Bones - Patterned Suspenders- If you have you’re a bit of a bad boy (or perhaps a pirate) then these suspenders could give you a bit of edge.
Bar None - Black & White Striped Suspenders - As the name suggests, these suspenders are really a pair of the spiffiest suspenders you could pair with a tux. They are the perfect mix between classic and modern.
Fuchsia Sizzle - Classic Bright Pink Suspenders -If you’re looking to go all out unique, why not add a fun pop of color? We love this hot pink pair! After all, real men wear pink.
As an enthusiast with a profound understanding of men's fashion and formal attire, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. My expertise extends beyond mere familiarity with trends, delving into the intricacies of classic style and the finer details that define a well-dressed man. The topic at hand, the art of donning a tuxedo, is one that I've not only studied extensively but also applied in real-world situations, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of the subject matter.
Let's delve into the nuances of the concepts mentioned in the article, starting with the cardinal rule for achieving a debonair appearance in a tuxedo - the exclusion of a belt. This sartorial guideline aligns with traditional formalwear etiquette, and James Bond serves as an iconic embodiment of this principle. The article rightly emphasizes the importance of eschewing belts in favor of suspenders, a detail that adds sophistication to the ensemble.
The absence of belt loops on actual tuxedo pants underscores the reliance on suspenders, a key element in achieving the desired look. Suspenders not only maintain the correct rise of the pants but also avoid the unflattering cinching of the waist. The choice between pre-sewn buttons or clip-on suspenders depends on the design of the tuxedo pants, showcasing the importance of understanding the garment's specifics for a seamless ensemble.
The article touches upon the optional additions of a cumme*rbund or vest to complete the tuxedo look. These components contribute to the overall elegance and offer personalization opportunities. However, the focus remains on the foundational role of suspenders, making them an indispensable accessory for a gentleman's formal attire.
When it comes to selecting suspenders, the article provides valuable insights. It highlights the consideration of color, with white or black being the traditional choices. Nevertheless, it encourages individuals to inject personal flair by opting for fun colors or patterns, acknowledging that suspenders are a foundational piece rarely seen by others.
Finally, the article presents a curated selection of suspenders, each catering to different style preferences. From the classic black Jet Set suspenders to the edgy Skull and Bones patterned suspenders, and the spiffy Bar None black and white striped suspenders, the choices showcase the versatility of suspenders in complementing various tuxedo styles. The inclusion of the Fuchsia Sizzle bright pink suspenders exemplifies the encouragement to embrace unique and bold choices, reinforcing the notion that real men can confidently wear pink.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide to achieving a swoon-worthy tuxedo look, with a focus on the nuanced role of suspenders and the potential for personal expression within the confines of formalwear etiquette.
