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The State of Black Tie: Your Observations

Concordia

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If you have reason to want to look a lot better in black tie, then that could be what will push you over. How often do you wear it? Do you have to do anything besides sit in a chair? Are all your other bases covered for the next year?
 

Nobilis Animus

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I'm also going to ask this question on the Ongoing Bespoke thread, but thought I'd post here as well for others' thoughts.

I'm slowly building my bespoke wardrobe. I have a grey suit and a navy suit. My thoughts are that the next logical addition would be a tuxedo. My reasoning is that the bespoke suits are of far superior quality and fit overall to my OTR wardrobe, and they are special, and a tuxedo ought to be the same. I was thinking of maybe getting a sport coat first, but since I could, conceivably, mix the trousers and jackets of the grey and navy suits, I've got that base covered for the time being. And, I've already many other OTR suits and sports coats to fill out my wardrobe. Anyway, would appreciate your thoughts if you have any.

My current tuxedo is a Joseph Abboud. It's just okay, but it serves its purpose.

If you wear evening clothes often enough, I would definitely recommend a custom tuxedo. Not only will it look better, but it will be more comfortable to wear all night.

The thing is, like Concordia said, you have to decide if you need one that often. I don't mean specific 'black tie' events though, because I myself take a slightly different tack from some here - I won't hesitate to wear a tuxedo to the opera, or the jacket or a velvet blazer to a cocktail lounge. That fits for me, but maybe not for everyone.
 

Andy57

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No 7 raw silk three piece. Maybe silk velvet 4x1 navy shawl for no 8
I have a length of black watch barathea set aside for my next one. Alas, I'll likely have to wait for a vaccine before I can get to London to get the jacket started.
 

martingfx

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I believe no one here needs bowties but if you do, Drake's archives sale have them for 15 quid each.
Too cheap to pass, got myself both a black grosgrain and a white marcella... Shall be interesting to see the size/design as I haven't seen their bow ties tied in any pics.
 

Zerase

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Too cheap to pass, got myself both a black grosgrain and a white marcella... Shall be interesting to see the size/design as I haven't seen their bow ties tied in any pics.
They are self tied but you can adjust the size in the back. I think they range from 14-17" or something like that.
 

martingfx

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They are self tied but you can adjust the size in the back. I think they range from 14-17" or something like that.
Yes, I was thinking more of the bow itself :) Strange there are no pictures of it "in action" on their website or Instagram.
 

Concordia

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jiredell

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Thanks gents. Yes, I pretty much have my other bases covered for the moment. Most of my menswear is OTR—including my tux. Since my first bespoke commission I’ve become addicted to the fit and quality. Fortunately, with more than 20 sport coats and about the same number of suits, I’m in pretty good shape for someone who dresses like this nearly every day. Unfortunately, I’m kicking myself for not spending the same amount of $ on 1/4 that #, but having them bespoken. I am definitely the type to find any excuse to wear a tuxedo or dinner jacket, so I’m thinking that will likely be the next commission. I appreciate everyone’s feedback.
 

lordsuperb

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Thanks gents. Yes, I pretty much have my other bases covered for the moment. Most of my menswear is OTR—including my tux. Since my first bespoke commission I’ve become addicted to the fit and quality. Fortunately, with more than 20 sport coats and about the same number of suits, I’m in pretty good shape for someone who dresses like this nearly every day. Unfortunately, I’m kicking myself for not spending the same amount of $ on 1/4 that #, but having them bespoken. I am definitely the type to find any excuse to wear a tuxedo or dinner jacket, so I’m thinking that will likely be the next commission. I appreciate everyone’s feedback.
400.jpeg
 

Andy57

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Since my first bespoke commission I’ve become addicted to the fit and quality.
That's how it works. Welcome to the rabbit hole. ?

I am definitely the type to find any excuse to wear a tuxedo or dinner jacket, so I’m thinking that will likely be the next commission.
Then you've come to the right place! :bigstar:
 

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