From the timeless allure of the classic black tuxedo to contemporary colour twists with trend-setting accessories, there’s nothing like a stylish dinner suit to express your sartorial prowess and cement your status as a respectable male, and from red carpet events to sophisticated evening soirees, they’ll see you through just about every formal occasion in style.
Choosing the perfect dinner suit, especially if you aim to stand out in style, can be a daunting task – but armed with the right knowledge and approach, you can track down your ideal match with minimal dress.
If you’re eager to step into the spotlight at your next formal event with the perfect dinner suit then selecting a tuxedo that boasts impeccable fit and exudes personal flair is key.
We asked the experts at Jack Martin – designers of a diverse collection of dinner suits that will guarantee you’ll make your mark with elegance at that next important event – to share their top tips on finding the right one for you.
What exactly is a dinner suit anyway?
A dinner suit, also known as a tuxedo, is the quintessential choice of attire for men attending formal gatherings, and comprises an elegant ensemble typically featuring a black jacket paired with a white shirt and a bow tie. Its roots trace back to 1865 when Prince Edward VII first donned it as an alternative to a tailcoat, going on to gain global popularity in the early 20th century before seeing a brief decline during WWI. Later, in the 1960s, it re-emerged and
from then onwards, it has served as the ultimate symbol of class and sophistication for men everywhere.
Choosing the perfect dinner jacket for any occasion
When it comes to choosing a tuxedo, you’ll need to consider several key criteria. The traditional black tuxedo remains a classic, but today’s ever-evolving fashion landscape allows for a variety of colours to add a spark of individuality. Pay attention to details like the lapel style, button design, and pocket placement on the jacket.
The bow tie is an integral part of the men’s tuxedo. Its fabric and texture should complement the jacket, although experimenting with patterns is a fun way to express personal style. The dress shirt’s collar and cuffs, along with optional accessories like a bib or studs, add to the suit’s overall elegance, so be sure to select one that boasts all of these key details.
Trousers are less complicated; select a pair that matches your jacket in fabric and texture for a cohesive look, and you’re good to go – but ensure that they are the perfect length and fit, as oversized dinner suits are not a good look and will quickly detract from your carefully curated image, while trousers that are too small, short or tight will leave you feeling uncomfortable and unable to fully enjoy the occasion.
Modern dinner suits offer a plethora of combinations beyond the classic black and white. A monochromatic look with a jacket, shirt, pants, and bow tie all in a single colour other than black is an option – or alternatively, a duo-tone approach, pairing different coloured shirts and jackets, is also a trendy way to wear one. Takes can range from subtle variations, like a blue jacket with a light violet shirt, to more striking contrasts, like a red bow tie with a blue coat and a lighter shirt, so try on a few combinations and see which feels and looks the best in terms of your personal taste and style.
The bottom line
Selecting the right dinner suit is essential for making a statement at any formal event comes down to just a few key principles, and understanding the nuances of suit selection, from colour choices to accessory options, is essential. For a wide range of dinner suits varying in colour and style, check out the covetable designer collection by Jack Martin for inspiration and a perfect fit for your next elegant occasion.
