Tuxedo vs Suit: What's the Difference?

At first glance, a tuxedo and a suit look similar. Both are two-piece (or three-piece) outfits with a jacket and matching trousers. But the details make all the difference. From satin-faced lapels to patent leather shoes, a tuxedo is built for formal occasions while a suit is designed for everyday professional and social settings. Here is a detailed comparison of every key difference.

Lapels

Tuxedo

Satin-faced lapels, either in shawl or peak style. The satin creates a distinctive sheen that sets the tuxedo apart.

Suit

Fabric-covered lapels in notch, peak, or (rarely) shawl style. The lapels match the rest of the jacket material with no contrasting sheen.

Buttons

Tuxedo

Buttons are covered in satin fabric to match the lapels, creating a seamless, polished appearance. Typically one button.

Suit

Buttons are exposed and usually made from horn, plastic, or metal. Suit jackets commonly feature two or three buttons.

Trousers

Tuxedo

A satin stripe runs down the outside seam of each leg, matching the satin on the jacket lapels. Tuxedo trousers never have cuffs and are not worn with a belt (side adjusters or suspenders instead).

Suit

Plain trousers with no satin stripe. Can be cuffed or uncuffed, and are typically worn with a belt or suspenders.

Shirt

Tuxedo

A formal tuxedo shirt with a wing-tip or turndown collar, a pleated or bib front, and French cuffs fastened with cufflinks. The shirt fastens with shirt studs instead of visible buttons.

Suit

A standard dress shirt with a point, spread, or button-down collar. Regular buttons, and barrel or French cuffs. No studs required.

Shoes

Tuxedo

Patent leather Oxford shoes or patent leather loafers with a high-gloss finish. The reflective surface matches the formality of the satin accents.

Suit

Standard leather dress shoes such as Oxfords, derbies, or monk straps in matte leather. Suede is acceptable for less formal suits.

Accessories

Tuxedo

A black bow tie (never a long tie), a cummerbund or formal waistcoat, a white pocket square (typically a flat fold), and cufflinks with shirt studs.

Suit

A necktie in any color or pattern, an optional pocket square, and optional cufflinks. A vest or waistcoat is available but not required.

When to Wear Each

Wear a Tuxedo When...

  • -The invitation says black tie or black tie optional.
  • -You are attending a formal gala, charity ball, or awards ceremony.
  • -You are the groom or in the wedding party at a formal evening wedding.
  • -The event takes place in the evening (after 6 PM) and has a formal dress code.
  • -You are attending a premiere, opening night, or formal dinner cruise.

Wear a Suit When...

  • -The dress code is business formal, business professional, or cocktail attire.
  • -You are going to a job interview, business meeting, or conference.
  • -You are attending a daytime wedding, including as a guest or groomsman.
  • -You need daily professional attire for the office.
  • -You are attending a funeral, religious service, or court appearance.

Related Guides

Tuxedo Size Chart

Find your tuxedo size with our US and EU conversion chart.

Suit Size Chart

Find your suit size in US, UK, and EU with our complete chart.

How to Tie a Bow Tie

Step-by-step instructions for a self-tie bow tie.

How to Tie a Tie

Guides for the Four-in-Hand, Half Windsor, and Full Windsor knots.