Everybody loves a black-tie affair: the bespoke theme, evening dresses, and tuxedos! Men, it is the perfect occasion to show off that crisp tuxedo jacket. This elegant attire has come a long way over the years.

But before you hit the next soirée, make sure your suit is in pristine condition! For tuxedos, professional dry cleaning isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a must.

Let’s look at some tuxedo do’s and don’ts for gentlemen considering wearing one for an upcoming event.

When to Wear A Tuxedo

Do’s

Tuxedos are meant to be worn during the evening only. Originally, they were meant to achieve an elegant evening look for men for social events, leaving behind morning work attire. A high social inclination and a fresh, clean look are the epitome of choosing this suit type. Before WWII, tails and tuxedos were the only appropriate way to dress for social gatherings.

Don’ts

If you are planning on attending a daytime event in a tuxedo, you might want to rethink your decision. Tuxedo etiquette experts discourage putting on the suit before 6 pm. Only diplomats and servers should wear tuxedos during the day.

Where to Wear A Tuxedo

Do’s

Tuxedos are ideal for weddings. Any invitation that says ‘black tie’ for a dress code means wearing a tuxedo. Here are some events where wearing a tux is implied:

• Theatre and Opera
• Private parties and exclusive social events
• Late afternoon weddings
• Prom

Don’ts

Tuxedos are to be worn at formal events only. Unless mentioned otherwise, honor your tuxedo by only wearing it at the appropriate events.

How to Wear A Tuxedo

Do’s

Below are some rules to properly put on a tuxedo.

• Choose a single-breasted jacket without any back slits. Tuxedo jackets also have a single button on them and have welt pockets.
• Get adaptable lapels. You can either choose between a shawl or peaked lapels for your jacket.
• Pick any of the three acceptable tuxedo colors. Tuxedo jackets can only be black, blue, or ivory. While there is no other alternative for a classy black jacket, a blue tone is more modern, while an ivory jacket is a preferred choice for summertime events.
• Pair with only a white shirt. When wearing a tuxedo, a white shirt should be your only option. To properly adjust the black bow, your shirt must have a wingtip collar characterized by front wings.
• Double up your cuffs for cuff-links.
• Select only a black silk bow tie.
• Choose trousers with braces. The most appropriate choice is white or black braces in fabric, ideally those that match the tuxedo color.

Don’ts

• Double-breasted jackets.
• Choose a color other than black, blue, and ivory for the tux.
• Opt for trousers with pleats or lapels.
• Pick a colored inner shirt.

How To Take Care of Your Tuxedo

Proper care is essential to extending the life of your tuxedo. Below are some tips on what you should and shouldn’t do to maintain your suit.

Do’s

• Professional Dry Cleaning Is Key: Always opt for professional dry cleaning to remove stains, dirt, and odors from your tuxedo. Dry cleaning uses specialized techniques that protect delicate fabrics and help your suit maintain its original shape and color. For a more convenient option, look for services that offer wash and fold to handle the rest of your garments.
• Pressing: Never underestimate the power of a good press. Wrinkles and creases can ruin the sleek look of a tuxedo. Ensure your cleaner provides dry cleaning and pressing services to keep your jacket and trousers looking immaculate.

Don’ts

• Avoid DIY Cleaning: Trying to clean your tuxedo at home can damage the fabric. The heat from household irons or excessive water from a washer can ruin the delicate structure of the suit. Always trust a professional dry cleaning service instead.
• Don’t Skip Regular Care: Even if your tuxedo isn’t visibly dirty, occasional dry cleaning is still important. Tuxedos absorb body oils and environmental elements, which can degrade the material over time. Laundry wash services can handle your casual clothes, but for your tuxedo, only professional dry cleaning will do.

If you are looking for  professional dry cleaning services in Washington, DC, to bring your wardrobe back to life, Sterling Cleaners is your right choice! We offer multiple services, including shoe repair, commercial laundry, and professional laundry wash and fold services for our clients in DC.

You can contact us to find out more or learn more about us first.

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