Tuxedos have been regulation formal wear for over a century. It is one garment that never seems to go out of style. Whether it is the sheer novelty or shock to see a guy in flattering formal wear, nearly every man looks good in a tux.
[photo: kimberlykv]
The origin of the tux began forty miles northwest of New York City on land wrested from the Algonquins. Their name for the locale, when pronounced phonetically, was “Tuxedo”, and the name for the town established became “Tuxedo Park”.
Pierre Lorillard IV, a member of the town’s elite, was instrumental in helping to found The Tuxedo Club, whose first Autumn Ball was held in October, 1886.
Some think that the Prince of Wales, the future Edward VIII, and his Saville Row tailors originated the suit, but the Tuxedo Club People got there first with the name. Mr Lorillard was credited with commissioning a tail-less formal jacket, and made the “Tuxedo” into the fashion statement of the century.
What will the tuxedo look like in years to come? The tux has been through many changes, though the classic lines remain the same. Newer organic cloth may be used to make the tuxedo more breathable and a little less warm to wear in crowded social conditions. Microfiber might make for some interesting drape and detailing, such as pin tucks or pleating.
Perhaps the tux will become a more unisex garment, as the ladies are discovering that they look pretty darn good in a tuxedo as well.
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The vests and tuxedo tails are designed to complement one another. That is for today and tomorrow’s trend.
well, it never goes out of style but the wearer can be out of touch if not properly matched… however, its not the tux that carries the man, but how the man carries his tux.