Tuxedo vs Suit: Difference and Comparison

Tuxedos and suits are two different kinds of dresses. They are meant to be worn on different occasions and in different circumstances.

A tuxedo is worn during a party and special occasions, whereas suits can be worn in any situation. Suits can suitably be worn in offices as well as other settings.

Key Takeaways

1. Tuxedos are formal attire characterized by satin or grosgrain accents, while suits are versatile and suitable for various occasions.
2. Tuxedos are traditionally worn with bow ties and cummerbunds, while suits pair with neckties and belts.
3. Suits offer more color and pattern options, whereas tuxedos are black or midnight blue.

Tuxedo vs Suit

A tuxedo is a formal black or midnight blue wool suit with satin lapels, buttons, and pocket trim. A suit is a more versatile formal attire that can be worn for various occasions. A tuxedo is a more formal attire reserved for black-tie events, while a suit is a more versatile attire.

A tuxedo or dinner jacket (British English) or DJ whatever you call it is a decorated dress worn with a bow tie. Satin details are one distinguishing feature of the Tuxedo.

Traditionally it is a black dress but nowadays, can be seen in multiple colors. Some accessories are also worn with it, like waistcoats, suspenders, etc.

The suit is that good old dress which we wear with our favourite long tie depending on our choices. It can be worn in any situation.

It can be worn with any black pair of shoes and a belt. It can be worn with a variety of dress shirts depending upon the choice and suitability.

Comparison Table

Parameters of Comparison	Tuxedo	Suit
Accessories	It must be worn with an accessory.	It can be worn without accessories.
Events	It can only be worn at weddings and galas.	It can be worn at any time of the day.
Satin	It has satin on the lapel, buttons, etc.	It has the same material on lapels and the button is a simple one with a plastic or fabric cover.
Shirt	It can be worn with a shirt with a wing collar or turndown collar.	It can be worn with any type of dress shirt.
Price	A tuxedo is costlier than a suit.	A suit can be bought at half the price of a Tuxedo.

What is Tuxedo?

A tuxedo is a formal dress that can be worn in ceremonial situations. It, however, is to keep a few things in mind before you go for a tuxedo. It must be worn with certain accessories. Shirt and shoe selection should also be considered.

Classic Tuxedo should be worn with a waistcoat, cummerbund, bow-tie, cufflinks, etc. However, nowadays people are doing experiments and they prefer fewer formal options. Usually, a white shirt with a wing or turndown collar is worn with Tuxedo.

Its distinguishing feature is the presence of satin on different portions like the lapel and the buttons. Modern tuxedos come with a little less satin, but still, its presence marks the basic difference from a Suit.

A classic example of a tuxedo would be the dress worn by James Bond in his movies when he goes to a party. It is the classy black one however, the trend has taken a turn, and now people prefer it with different shades.

Different celebrities and grooms can be seen going beyond tradition and trying shades like blue and others, depending on their personalities.

But, to own a tuxedo is a bit expensive and might burn a hole in your pocket. It generally is twice as costly as a suit. Renting and buying a Tux is a costly affair.

What is a Suit?

It is classic wear that can be worn in any situation. Be it a party or you are going to the office, it is your best companion. Its convenience is what makes it irresistible for any man. It has no satin on its lapel or anywhere. The entire garment is made of a single fabric.

It can be worn with any shirt and shoes, depending on the comfort of the wearer. If you are one of those people who want maximum value, then the suit is the best choice for you. It costs less, and it can be worn on any occasion.

You can wear it with a long tie of your choice, and any formal black shoes will be good with them. It can be worn with or without vests and other accessories. It can also be worn with a bow tie. It gives more color options than a tux.

It can be worn during day times as tuxedos are better options during evening events. It is suitable for more casual events. If you are about to get married and looking for an option, you can opt for a suit.

It, however depends on the clothes your wife is wearing. If she is wearing a less formal one, you can opt for a suit easily.

Main Differences Between Tuxedo and Suit

1. Tuxedo has satin on lapels, buttons, etc., whereas the suit is made of one kind of fabric.
2. The tuxedo is more suitable for evening and formal parties, whereas the suit can be worn at a date or a business meeting.
3. The tuxedo can be worn only with a white shirt, and accessories are necessary, whereas the suit can be worn with any shirt.
4. Suits have more color options as compared to tuxedos.
5. Tuxedos are costlier than suits be in terms of renting or purchase.
6. Tuxedos can only be worn at parties, whereas suits can be worn at parties and other occasions, depending on the situation.

References

1. https://search.informit.org/doi/abs/10.3316/INFORMIT.502004807062311