The tuxedo has long been the gold standard for formal menswear. From aristocratic dinner parties in the 19th century to modern red-carpet events, the tuxedo has evolved while maintaining its air of refinement and prestige. Today, the tuxedo continues to serve as the ultimate symbol of sophistication, offering men the perfect blend of tradition and style for weddings, galas, and black-tie affairs.

The origins of the tuxedo can be traced back to the 1860s, when British aristocrats began replacing their formal tailcoats with shorter dinner jackets for more relaxed evening events. This shift in attire eventually made its way to America, where the town of Tuxedo Park in New York became associated with the style after high-society members adopted the look. The name “tuxedo” was born, and with it, a new era of men’s fashion began.

In its early days, the tuxedo was a strictly formal garment reserved for the most elite social gatherings. Worn with a white dress shirt, black bow tie, and often a waistcoat or cummerbund, the look was structured and precise. As decades passed, however, the tuxedo began to adapt to changing tastes, offering men new ways to express elegance without rigid conformity. This transformation allowed the tuxedo to remain relevant and stylish throughout each era.

By the mid-20th century, Hollywood had embraced the tuxedo as a mark of masculine glamour. Actors like Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, and James Bond brought the tuxedo to life on screen, showing that formalwear could be cool, confident, and charismatic. Velvet jackets, shawl collars, and silk accessories added flair to the classic look without compromising its sophistication. These influences are still visible in today’s tuxedo designs.

In recent years, tuxedos have undergone a significant evolution. While the core elements remain intact—lapels, formal trousers, satin details—modern designers have reimagined the tuxedo with slimmer fits, bold colors, and creative textures. Today’s groom might wear a deep green velvet tuxedo with black lapels, or a navy blue wool jacket with subtle embroidery. The tuxedo has become a canvas for individuality while still adhering to the elegance expected of formal occasions.

Fabric has played a crucial role in this evolution. Traditional wool and satin remain staples, but modern tuxedos now incorporate velvet, silk, jacquard, and even stretch blends for added comfort. These materials allow for versatility without losing the structured silhouette that defines the tuxedo. With options for every season, body type, and event style, tuxedos have become more inclusive and accessible than ever before.

Another aspect of the modern tuxedo is its versatility. While once reserved strictly for evening events, tuxedos are now seen at daytime weddings, red carpet premieres, and even upscale fashion shows. The key lies in the styling. A tuxedo paired with a traditional bow tie and cummerbund creates a timeless black-tie look. But replace the bow tie with a minimalist silk scarf or go without a tie entirely, and you have a modern, fashion-forward version suited for more relaxed elegance.

Personalization has also become an important part of tuxedo culture. Men now have the option to customize everything from the lining to the lapel shape, from button styles to embroidery inside the jacket. These details allow each tuxedo to tell a unique story—one that reflects the wearer’s personality, the occasion, and their sense of style.

The future of the tuxedo looks promising. With advancements in tailoring, fabric technology, and fashion innovation, tuxedos are expected to become even more adaptable while maintaining their classic roots. The challenge for designers today is to balance the timeless appeal of the tuxedo with modern trends, and so far, they’ve succeeded brilliantly.

At Vogue and Threads, we honor the legacy of the tuxedo while embracing its evolution. Our collection features both traditional styles and modern designs that cater to the tastes of today’s stylish man. Whether you prefer the elegance of a classic black tuxedo or the boldness of a velvet jacket, our garments reflect quality, craftsmanship, and individuality.

To see how the tuxedo has transformed through time and find the one that fits your story, visit our curated tuxedo collection. With Vogue and Threads, you’re not just wearing a tuxedo—you’re wearing a legacy that continues to inspire generations.