When it comes to formalwear for men, tuxedos are the gold standard. A well-tailored tuxedo is the ultimate symbol of sophistication and elegance, making it the perfect choice for formal events like weddings, galas, and black tie affairs. But not all tuxedos are created equal. Some styles are more classic and traditional, while others are more modern and edgy. One style that has been gaining popularity in recent years is the cutaway tuxedo.
What is a Cutaway Tuxedo?
A cutaway tuxedo, also known as a morning coat, is a style of formalwear that is characterized by its unique coat design. Unlike a traditional tuxedo jacket, which has a straight hemline that falls at the hips, a cutaway tuxedo features a longer, angled tail that falls just above the knee in the back. The front of the jacket is cut higher, typically at the waist, creating a distinctive V-shaped silhouette that is both elegant and eye-catching.
Cutaway tuxedos are typically worn with a matching pair of dress pants that have a stripe running down the side of each leg. The pants are usually black or gray, although some designers offer more colorful options. The jacket is typically black, although it can also be navy or charcoal gray.
History of Cutaway Tuxedos
The cutaway tuxedo has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. At that time, morning dress was the standard attire for formal events. Morning dress consisted of a tailcoat, waistcoat, and striped trousers, and was worn by men of all social classes.
However, in the early 20th century, a new style of formalwear emerged: the dinner jacket. The dinner jacket was a less formal alternative to morning dress, and was typically worn for evening events. It featured a shorter jacket that was cut straight across at the waist, and was worn with black trousers.
Despite the popularity of the dinner jacket, morning dress remained the preferred choice for formal events well into the 1920s. However, as the decade wore on, the cutaway tuxedo began to gain popularity among stylish and fashion-forward men. The cutaway tuxedo offered a more modern and streamlined silhouette than morning dress, and was perfect for the new era of Jazz Age glamour.
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, the cutaway tuxedo remained a popular choice for formal events. However, as fashion trends shifted in the post-war era, the style began to fall out of favor. By the 1960s, the cutaway tuxedo was seen as outdated and old-fashioned, and was replaced by more contemporary styles like the single-breasted tuxedo.
It wasn't until the late 20th century that the cutaway tuxedo began to make a comeback. In the 1980s and 1990s, designers like Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani reintroduced the style, giving it a more modern and updated look. Today, the cutaway tuxedo is once again a popular choice for stylish and fashion-conscious men.
How to Wear a Cutaway Tuxedo
Wearing a cutaway tuxedo requires a certain level of confidence and panache. The style is bold and eye-catching, and requires a certain level of swagger to pull off. Here are some tips on how to wear a cutaway tuxedo with style and confidence:
- Get the fit right. A well-tailored cutaway tuxedo should fit snugly in the shoulders and chest, with a slightly tapered waist and a clean, crisp line.
