What is a dinner suit?
A tailcoat suit is a five-piece men's suit that is worn after 5:30 pm. Within the Netherlands there are various occasions where a tailcoat is appropriate, such as during ballroom dancing, receiving a doctorate at a university, dinners at the royal court and as a musician in a symphony orchestra. This suit is not suitable for walks or other outdoor activities. For events that take place during the day, a morning coat is worn. This alternative jacket stops above the waist, is classically cut and has a stylish button fastening.
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When do you wear a tuxedo?
A tailcoat is worn at events with the 'white tie' dress code. Simply put, these are the smartest gatherings you can attend. Because of the formal nature, there is strict etiquette. Sometimes the French name 'cravate blanche' is used. The name is a reference to the white bow ties that people customarily wear for these occasions. Male guests are always expected to appear in a tailcoat suit.
Parts of a Tuxedo
Nowadays it is easy to buy ready-made suits in clothing shops and webshops. Still, it is wise to know which parts a tailcoat should consist of. It would, after all, be embarrassing to find out only at the party that the set was not complete after all. A tailcoat consists of the following:
- Black tailcoat: This is a long jacket whose back reaches to the backs of the knees and ends at the front in two sharp points. The lapels (collar) are usually made of smooth fabrics such as satin. In addition, a tailcoat has buttons that are attached for decoration. This jacket is not meant to be done up!
- White dress waistcoat: This is a kind of waistcoat, but with an open back and adjustable straps. It is generally made of piqué (cotton with a relief). In some cases this waistcoat can also be black-coloured.
- White dress shirt: This is a white shirt made of piqué with a wing collar. This is a stand-up collar in which the pointed tips are folded upwards. This shows off the white bow tie nicely.
- White bow tie: Guests are encouraged to tie it themselves.
- Black tailcoat trousers: These are formal dress trousers with a satin braid (decorative strip) down the sides of the trouser legs.
What’s the etiquette for shoes with a white-tie outfit?
A tailcoat calls for smart, classic shoes. Suede and leather shoes are too casual for a white tie event. The only right choice is therefore black patent leather shoes. These shoes have no striking details or stitching, which fits perfectly with the sleek, classic and understatedly stylish aesthetic of this dress code. The sole is preferably thin and you always wear them in combination with plain black knee-high socks, so that the skin of the legs remains covered. Here too there is no room for striking colours, patterns or textures.
Which accessories do you wear with a tuxedo?
Some people compare a white tie gathering to a journey back in time. This is mainly because the clothing of both male and female guests is traditional in nature. The same goes for the accessories you can wear with the tailcoat:
- White pocket square: This is a matter of taste, but it does provide a refined appearance. However, it is not customary to wear one when receiving a doctorate at a university or college.
- White braces: Should you be afraid that your trousers will slip down, then you can choose to wear these. A belt is, in any case, out of the question!
- Cufflinks: A refined addition to your shirt. The main thing is that they don't stand out too much. White and silver examples are the most common.
- Gala gloves: This too is not obligatory, but does complete the classic character of the tailcoat. These are available in both white and black.
