April 17th, 2011
History of the Tuxedo
Formal wear is somewhat universal in western societies. There are common definitions for black tie and white tie which are generally understood whether the event is in the US, Canada, or Great Britain and parts of Europe. However, the term tuxedo as used for a specific suit style is distinctly American. In Great Britain, and certain parts of the US, this style is known as a dinner jacket.
The design comes from the British upper class and rising middle class. In the 1860s they preferred a lounge suit with smoking jacket when attending more relaxed affairs in the country. This was in direct contrast to the formality of white tire required in London. The look was popularized by Lord Dupplin in 1860 when he attended an informal dinner held by the Prince of Whales on the royal yacht wearing a smoking jacket.
Today’s tuxedo rental owes its debt to James Potter of New York. Potter was a wealthy American traveling in England who was a guest of the Prince in 1886. He saw the new style of evening dress and adopted the look for himself. When he returned to New York, the look became popular with members of the Tuxedo Park Club. Today’s tuxedos are not limited to the original dinner jacket design, but include any formal wear for men.