If you’re about to attend a formal event, there’s no better option than a stylish dinner jacket. Unlike the traditional formal jacket, the men’s dinner jacket is much classier and more sophisticated. It is an item that every man should have in their closet. Regardless of the occasion, whether it’s a wedding or a special party, this jacket will make you look and feel like a million bucks.
So, what is a men’s dinner jacket, and how do you wear it? In this article, you will get to learn everything there is to learn about men’s dinner jackets. So, let’s begin!
What is a Men’s Dinner Jacket?
A men’s dinner jacket is a special type of jacket that is specifically designed for formal wear. It is very similar to a tuxedo, and some people might even say that they are one and the same. While they are both designed for formal wear and look almost identical, there are tiny differences that set them apart.
First, dinner jackets do not come with a tail. On the other hand, most tuxedo jackets will have a tail. If you don’t know what a tail is, it is an extended piece of material that flows from the back end of a tuxedo. This tail serves as an added style on a tuxedo jacket and does not have any functional value.
Another small difference between a tuxedo jacket and a dinner jacket is the lapels. Tuxedo jackets generally come with satin lapels. This gives them a distinct look and sets them apart from other traditional jackets. Meanwhile, dinner jackets can either have satin lapels or may come with traditional lapels without any additional satin lining.
As mentioned before, these differences are very small. Both tuxedo jackets and dinner jackets may look like the same type of jacket to the average eye. However, if you are very particular about the styles of a jacket, then you’ll easily see the difference between the two.
When to Wear a Men’s Dinner Jacket?
Originally, the men’s dinner jacket was designed as an alternative to the tailcoat for less formal events. But as time went by, dinner jackets became very popular for both formal and semi-formal events. They have become one of the most formal jackets for men. Most people see them as being more formal than sports, blazers, and even suit jackets.
You can wear a dinner jacket on occasions like graduations, weddings, formal business meetings, black-tie dinners, a ball, prom, Opera, ballet, and many more. As long as the occasion is not formal, you can rock these jackets anytime.
Where to Buy a Men’s Dinner Jacket?
Since dinner jackets are one of the most important parts of your outfit for a formal event, you have to be very particular about where you buy them. They should be of the best quality, and you shouldn’t compromise on the design as well. Thankfully, there are some great websites online where you can purchase your dinner jacket.
Some examples of such websites include Amazon, iTailor, Nordstrom, Black Lapel, and many more. Some of these websites offer premium dinner jackets, while some provide amazing budget dinner jackets. Websites like Amazon offer all types of dinner jackets ranging from mid-range jackets to high-end jackets. You can find a jacket easily based on your budget.
What to Wear with a Men’s Dinner Jacket?
Once you’ve picked out a dinner jacket, you need to figure out what to wear with it. You should pick the rest of your outfit very carefully when you’re wearing a dinner jacket. Dinner jackets are extremely stylish and formal, and you don’t want to ruin that by wearing something that does not go with it. Here are some ideas to help you complete an outfit while wearing a men’s dinner jacket:
- Formal Shirt:
When it comes to dinner jackets, a white formal shirt is the best option. A simple white shirt will do. However, if you want to go for a traditional style, you can choose a pleated shirt with French cuffs or double cuffs. You should also consider the type of placket and buttons on your shirt as well.
- Bow tie:
Bow ties are a must when you’re wearing a dinner jacket. Of course, you can also wear a traditional tie, but a bow tie goes better with dinner jackets. If you want to mix things up, you can also play with the color of the bow tie and use different materials and textures as well.
- Trousers:
Your trousers should normally be high-waisted if you’re wearing a dinner jacket. If you want the perfect look, the material should also match your jacket. And if there’s a strip running along the out seam of your trousers, that too should match with your jacket’s lapel.
- Shoes:
When it comes to shoes, black oxfords are the way to go when you’re wearing a dinner jacket. They are stylish, classy, and perfect for all types of occasions. Moreover, they are simple enough to go along with any type of suit.
- Waistcoat:
Waistcoats are optional when it comes to dinner jackets. You can choose between a waistcoat or a cummerbund. Either of those two will elevate your style and give you a classic look. However, if you choose a cummerbund, make sure that it’s of the same material as your jacket’s lapel.
How to Measure for a Men’s Dinner Jacket?
Normally, your chest measurement can determine the size of your jacket size. You will need a friend to help you with this. You will also need a measuring tape. Simply lift your arms up by your side and let your friend measure your torso. Make sure to keep your body relaxed and don’t hold your breath in.
Measuring your chest size alone will not get you the accurate jacket size, though. You will also have to measure the length of your sleeve. If you can’t find a size that fits your sleeve length and chest size, you should consider contacting a local tailor to have them make a custom jacket just for you.
