As every fashion-savvy gentleman knows, the lapel of a tuxedo jacket can make or break the entire image of a formal outfit.
Understanding the different styles of tuxedo lapels will help you make the appropriate decision, whether attending a black-tie event or trying to add sophistication to your wardrobe.
In this article, we’ll discuss the most popular styles of tuxedo lapels and their distinguishing characteristics. That way, you can select the one that complements your style and the occasion.
What is a Suit Lapel?
The lapel is the fabric fold on the front of a coat or jacket. It is an essential component of a man’s formal attire and is usually positioned around the jacket’s collar.
The tuxedo lapel styles used on a jacket are usually made of saying. It can vary and can be crucial to a man’s unique style.
Notch lapels, shawl lapels, and peak lapels are the three primary types of lapels. The notched lapel is the most common and has a little V-shaped cutout at the collar.
The shawl lapel is a continuous curve with a rounded contour. On the other hand, the peak lapel is a sharp V pointing upward.
Each type of lapel has its unique characteristic and is suited for different occasions and styles.
Shawl Lapel Style Tuxedo
The shawl lapel is a style that characterizes by a smooth, continuous black satin curve that creates a rounded shape.
It is usually found on formal jackets and coats, such as a tuxedo or a dinner jacket. Also, it is often seen as the standard of several styles of tuxedo lapels.
There are several widths of shawl lapels. The wider form is considered more traditional, whereas the narrower style is considered more contemporary.
Shawl lapels are typically reserved for high-end events and evening occasions. When selecting a tuxedo jacket style with a shawl collar, it is essential to consider the garment’s overall fit and the accessories and footwear that will be worn with it.
When to Wear a Shawl Lapel Tuxedo
Shawl lapels are often designated for upscale events and evening occasions, such as theater or musical performances, formal gatherings, etc. Tuxedos with shawl collars are not ideal for business attire.
A white dinner jacket with a black shawl lapel is a popular and fashionable choice for a formal event.
Peak Lapel Tuxedo
The peak lapel is the most formal lapel style, and it is commonly found on double-breasted jackets, formal coats such as a tailcoat or morning coats, and tuxedos.
In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the peak lapel, characterized by its sharp, upwardly curving V-shape, was considered a very fashionable style.
Even skilled tailors find it challenging to properly cut peak lapels on a single-breasted suit.
It is necessary to consider the overall fit and appearance of the garment, as well as the accessories and footwear that will be worn with it.
So start by selecting a peak lapel tuxedo in order to achieve a polished and classy appearance.
When to Wear a Tuxedo with a Peak Lapel
Peak lapels are generally worn to black-tie events, such as formal weddings, award ceremonies, red carpets, and other high-end formal occasions.
The peak lapel type is the most formal sort of lapel, and it is generally viewed as the conventional choice for a tuxedo jacket.
When wearing a tux with a peak lapel, choosing the proper accessories and footwear is imperative to complete the look. Thus, to achieve a professional and elegant impression.
Notch Lapel Tuxedo
The notch lapel is the most popular style of lapel and was the first to be introduced.
Notch lapels are defined by a narrow V-shaped cutout near the collar and are typically found on blazers, sportscoats, suits, and tuxedos.
The size of the notch can vary, with a small notch sometimes referred to as a fishmouth. In contrast to the more formal peak lapel and shawl lapel, this type of lapel is often found in casual suits.
To wear a suit with a notch lapel, ensure that the lapels are firm against the chest and the V-shaped notch is facing straight outwards.
Should You Wear a Lapel Notch Tuxedo?
A tuxedo, often known as a dinner jacket, must always have a peak or shawl lapel, but never a notch lapel, according to traditional and fashion norms.
This is because peak and shawl lapels are considered more formal and classic. On the other hand, notch lapels are perceived as more modern and contemporary.
So, according to black tie etiquette, a notch lapel is inappropriate for a tuxedo. Instead, a peak lapel or shawl lapel should be selected.
This rule is not set in stone. In addition, it may be okay to wear a notch lapel tuxedo to certain informal gatherings. But for a classic black tie event, it is normally advised to select a peak lapel or shawl lapel black tuxedo.
Proper Tuxedo Lapel Width
The lapel’s width can significantly affect the entire appearance of the tuxedo and dinner jackets. So it is essential to select the width that complements your body type and personal style.
The correct width of a tuxedo lapel varies depending on the specific personal preference and current fashion trends. The normal width for lapels is between 2.5 and 3.5 inches, but bigger lapels can be attractive as well.
In the end, the appropriate lapel width for you will depend on the cut of your tuxedo and your own style.
Do All Tuxedos Have Satin Lapels?
Not all tuxedos have satin lapels. While many tuxedos do incorporate a satin lapel, it is not a necessity for a tuxedo to have one.
Some tuxedos may feature lapels made of alternative materials, such as grosgrain or silk.
The type of lapel on a tuxedo is normally a matter of personal preference and can be selected dependent on the formality of the occasion.
How to Choose the Right Lapel?
There are a few elements to consider while selecting the correct lapel for a suit or tuxedo.
First, consider the event’s formality first. A peak lapel or shawl lapel may be more suited for a formal black-tie event. Whilst a notch lapel may be more appropriate for a business or semi-formal occasion.
Next, analyze the jacket’s fit and silhouette. The peak lapel can produce a more dramatic and formal appearance. On the other hand, a notch lapel is more adaptable and can be worn with a range of jacket fits.
In addition to considering the general style of the suit or tuxedo, you should also consider your particular style and preferences.
In the end, your choice of lapel will depend on a mix of these criteria.
