Tuxedos Versus Suits: What's the Difference?

Whether you’re a bride or a groom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll be faced with is what to wear on your wedding day. While dress codes can help you hone in on your desired level of formality, selecting your attire can still be a difficult task, especially when deciding whether you want to wear either a suit or a tuxedo.

More specifically, if choosing between these two styles is currently stressing you out, we spoke with a few experts to help ease your nerves. Ahead, keep scrolling to learn about the differences between a tux and a suit, in order to find a look that works best for you.

The Differences Between Tuxedos and Suits

According to Dean Handspiker, vice president of retail at INDOCHINO, the difference between a tuxedo and a suit lies in the details. He shares that a tuxedo “has satin details (lapels, buttons, and a stripe down the side of the pant leg)," making them a more formal option to consider over suits. Menswear designer Kabiru Abu also notes that "Tuxedos typically are [made with a] black base fabric"—a stark contrast to suits which have the ability to come in various colors, materials, and patterns. What's more, tuxedos tend to be a little more expensive given their high-quality cut and design.

Should You Wear a Tuxedo or a Suit for Your Wedding?

Deciding whether to wear a tuxedo or a suit to your wedding depends on your dress code and the desired level of formality you're looking to achieve. “Tuxedos are to be exclusively used for formal events,” says Ksenia Konovalova, a managing partner at Ian Rios New York. Meaning, for white-tie and black-tie dress codes, tuxedos are the recommended style of attire, while casual dress codes—like semi-formal, cocktail, and festive—call for suits.

It's also important to consider the venue, the time of day, and how you’re asking your guests to dress. If you’re having an afternoon beach wedding, your guests might feel a little strange if they see you channeling James Bond while they’re relaxing in light-colored suits sans ties.

Lastly, one of the most important aspects to keep in mind is your personal style. If you tend to prefer outfits that are more laid back, a suit might be a better option to sport on the big day. Want to step out of your comfort zone and feel extraordinarily special? If so, a tux might be the answer. Try on the different styles and see what feels right. Ultimately, this is a chance to express yourself and dress to impress for your future spouse!