Tuxedo vs. Suit: Defining the Difference

Jul 10, 2019 at 11:39 am by AnnaAdmin


The age-old distinction in men’s formalwear still bears weight in our stores today, as we have brides and grooms (and their parents) coming in with staunch opinions on wanting either a tuxedo or a suit for that special day. Needless to say, regardless of the style chosen, it is our goal to help our customers understand the true differences in the garments themselves so that from that knowledge they can make their decision with confidence, knowing they chose the perfect look for the groom and his men.

Let’s begin with the tuxedo. A tuxedo jacket will always have some amount of satin on the lapel – some have just a trim, while others have a full satin lapel. The buttons will also be covered in a matching satin – making for a very sophisticated and timeless look. On the pants we notice a satin stripe down the outer leg – some stripes are thin and some are wider, but generally speaking satin on the leg ensures a traditional tuxedo.

A suit on the other hand, has no satin to be found. The jacket has a self-lapel, meaning the material of the lapel is the same as the jacket itself, and the buttons are uncovered. The pants will not have any satin either – they will be made out of coordinating material to the jacket, creating a clean and seamless look.

As with any definition, we find that there are always exceptions and hybrids if you will, of the two distinct types of formalwear.  For instance, one of our new colors for Spring/Summer 2019 is the Cornflower Allure featured in these photos. This gorgeous new look is neither a tuxedo nor a suit based on the defining traits mentioned above. The jacket features a self-lapel but has covered buttons, and the pants do not have a stripe. This style provides the classic, sophisticated look desired by those wanting a tuxedo, along with the seamless, relatable look aimed for by those shopping for a suit.

Whatever your style, we take pride in helping you find the look that most perfectly displays your personality, and we look forward to working with you!

Visit us online at streettuxedo.com or come see us at one of our middle Tennessee locations.

Street Tuxedo - Rivergate
1714 Gallatin Pike North
Madison, TN 37115
615.865.4640

Street Tuxedo - Cool Springs
216 Seaboard Lane
Franklin, TN 37067
615.771.0948

Street Tuxedo - Murfreesboro
536 North Thompson Lane
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
615.890.0955

Street Tuxedo - Berry Hill
2532 Bransford Avenue
Nashville, TN 37204
615.750.5324

Street Tuxedo - Green Hills
2209 Bandywood Drive
Nashville, TN 37215
615.386.0500