The Slim in Men’s Formal Wear
[caption id="attachment_108" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Slim Fit Tuxedo"][/caption]The Slim in Men’s Formal Wear
The look these days in men’s formal wear from designers like Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Jean Yves and others is “slim.” Slim as in tailored, close cut, forming a silhouette around the man in formal black. It’s a classic look that is reminiscent of the mid-19th century.
The Sleek Jacket
The jackets have a very tapered look and the lapels are trending towards peak. What the peak tuxedo jacket does, along with the traditional gloss of the lapel, is make a formal wear statement that calls attention to the person wearing the jacket.
Peaked lapels tend to pull more attention to the person wearing the tuxedo since they are more dramatic than the subtler shawl lapel. Of course, they are also more formal than the notched lapel, which is more appropriate for men’s suits.
Peaked lapels also conform to the whole tapered look as shawls tend to round out a person. The peak with the tapered fit looks good on guys with a medium build and can even work nicely on a man who is on the heavier side, especially if used with a vest.
But if you’re ultra slim, you may look über thin in one of the sleeker jackets. In other words, the style may make you disappear, turning you into a vertical line. A shawl lapel will fill you out a bit.
Flat Front Trousers
Pleats are less common and the flat front is the trend in trousers. Once again, this style is very slimming for all. Pleats can do a number on you if you have an expansive waist, expanding it even more.
Cummerbund Anyone?
The traditional cummerbund is part of this slim styling. It’s also a nice connection to the past, more traditional than the vest. However, it may not be a good choice if you’re on the hefty side. In that case, you should go with a vest that is properly fit. It shouldn’t be too tight or you’ll be bunched up in the front and look and feel very uncomfortable.
Trends Come and Go
Trends are just that. Just because something is in style doesn’t mean that you have to go with it. Especially when it comes to men’s formal wear where classic cuts and formal styles are relatively timeless.