First of all, it has to be understood that over the years, different definitions of what constitutes a tuxedo have developed. In Great Britain, a tuxedo is a black tie suit or dinner suit complete with waistcoat or cummerbund. In the United States, all formal evening suits are referred to as tuxedo’s.

In fact, the British can be grateful to an American for the style. Prior to King Edward the Seventh being crowned in the 19th Century, a well off American was visiting him. That man was James Potter. Before he came to visit, Mr. Potter inquired of Edward as to what was the proper attire for a dinner function. Edward referred Mr. Potter to his preferred tailor located in Saville Row.

When the American arrived for dinner everyone admired the look enormously especially the Prince. Upon returning the America, James Potter wore his new style suit to the Tuxedo Park Club, where it was equally popular. The other club members decided to all wear the same style, and it was named the Tuxedo.

By the late 50s, the man in the standard suit was searching for a wardrobe to suit the new age. With commercial traveling increasing, modern motor cars and super luxury household goods available, it was only a matter of time before designers turned their attention to our clothes. Men’s clothes would come to indicate America’s supreme economic success and its associated self-assurance.

During the 1960’s, men’s clothing experienced an influx of brash colors and patterns. These new colorful styles almost came to replace the usual summer jacket. Despite the brief flirtation with such casual styles, however, the customary tuxedo was still the preferred choice for formal wear.

The tuxedo experienced its greatest transformation in Europe. The European tuxedo featured shorter, square shoulders as well as cuffless pants.

This turned out to be the foundation of the British Mods fashion. It marked a return to stylishness in men’s clothing and the end result was a conventional style with an up to date feel.

The Tuxedo or “Tux” is now the standard attire for men’s evening wear. Tradition and etiquette states that it can only be worn after 6pm or sunset in the winter. It is now often referred to simply as a “Dinner Jacket”.