tuxedo guide: lapels

There are few times when I will actually agree with ZZ Top and their hit song "Sharp Dressed Man" hits the nail right on the head. Nothing beats a handsome man in a nicely tailored suit. Nothing. There, I said it! Nowadays, with business casual days at the office and jeans becoming more and more acceptable, I'm finding a SERIOUS lack of sharply dressed men walking around. Not okay. Which is why I LOVE attending evening and/or formal weddings. It is one of the rare opportunities to see younger, older and even kiddos strutting their stuff in a nice coat and tie! Ring bearers in tuxes? I cannot get enough - seriously.

With a younger generation beginning to venture into the world of wedded bliss, some tuxedo guidance for the grooms seems to be necessary! No, I'm not Giorgio Armani or Michael Kors - we're covering basics today, people.

To begin this series we're going to start with lapels (you know that collar-ish thingy on the front-side of your jacket). Right, so there are a few different styles to choose from:

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This is a classic notch lapel. You'll find this on most tuxedos, blazers and suit jackets. You find these on one and two-button, single-breasted suits. If you're looking for a classic, medium-formal style, this is your "go-to!"

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The peak lapel forms a "V" shape pointing the shoulders. The shape can have a slimming affect for the waist and a broadening affect for the shoulders. Peak lapels are often found on double-breasted suit jackets and most single and double-breasted dinner jackets. This is considered the most formal version of a tux lapel and is often paired with tails.

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The shawl  lapel was very fashionable in the 1970s and 1980s. With a smooth shape, it is considered somewhat less formal. Though Daniel Craig does NO wrong and looks smashing at the 2009 Oscars in his shawl-style tuxedo. Right, ladies? See I knew I could draw you back in...

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Okay, so there's your basic lapel knowledge, grooms. This should arm you somewhat as you enter the dress-code conversation with your bride or tailor. Keep checking back for more parts to the Tuxedo Guide series!

xoxo,
Kat