Formal Wear Primer

[Warbaby]

I do not think those are crossover ties. They look to be bowties but under the collar look like two crossed ends.

Right you are, Feraud - I grabbed the image, increased the resolution to 5000 ppi and enlarged it. Those are definitely bowties. At that magnification, you can clearly see the wrap-around and the bowtie ends.

 

[boushi_mania]

More stroller questions:
Is it acceptable to wear a vest underneath a double-breasted jacket? Does it depend at at all on the button stance?

Also, should a stroller have vents? I know they're frowned-upon for tuxedos...

 

[avedwards]

More stroller questions:
Is it acceptable to wear a vest underneath a double-breasted jacket? Does it depend at at all on the button stance?

Also, should a stroller have vents? I know they're frowned-upon for tuxedos...

I would personally say, that like with DB 3pc suits it is acceptable to wear a waistcoat under a DB jacket. Whether there is any point in doing so depends on the button stance. I'm assembling a stroller myself and my jacket is DB but just low enough to show one of the buttons of my waistcoat when buttoned so I will wear a waistcoat under it.

As for vents, I don't know but I wouldn't have thought so. Only sporty suits had vents during the 30s and 40s, when strollers were at the height of popularity.

 

[Charlie Huang]

Yes, waistcoats must be worn for black lounge whether they be SB or DB. DB is often unbuttoned or taken off so you must have a waistcoat on for dignity. The waistcoat should peek out a bit from the opening of a buttoned coat.

As for vents, either double or none, the latter is better.

 

[Charlie Huang]

Re: my evening waistcoat, here it is being worn for real:

 

[dnjan]

In addition to the excellent waistcoat, very nice starching on the shirt!

 

[Bugsy]

Beautiful job and you look wonderful.[/COLOR]

 

[Hap Hapablap]

Looks great, Charlie. Is the waistcoat normally starched, as well? And if so, is yours?

 

[Charlie Huang]

Looks great, Charlie. Is the waistcoat normally starched, as well? And if so, is yours?

It is not starched as the marcella (coupled with the linen canvas) is already more or less stiff enough. However, I could get it starched if I wanted to.

 

[draws]

[/IMG]
I have been collecting components of a full dress outfit for some time and have finally completed
the set. The shirt is a vintage Rochester starched bib with Marcella waistcoat and self Tie. The tail suit
is 55% polyester and 45% Wool blend and was a perfect fit on receipt. All items were ebay purchases.
This photo was taken just prior to leaving for the Vintage Commonwealth Dancers Feziwig Christmas Ball
in Salem, Mass. Lots of nice comments and beautifull vintage outfits.

 

[Charlie Huang]

The only thing I would say is ditch the spats for white tie. They are for day dress only.

 

[Charlie Huang]

The Broadland opera pumps have come in today (after sending the last pair back because of sizing issues):

 

[dhermann1]

They're for white tie as well as black tie? How do you feel about patent leather oxfords in general, and cap toe patent leather in particular?

 

[Charlie Huang]

You could wear patent/non-patent oxfords (with caps or not) with white tie, it's just not as dignified and as formal as pumps (and also because pumps are the only thing that hasn't changed since Brummell's time (unless you count the ribbon fob which I think only I have worn legitimately in modern times as others seem to prefer the albert chain on waistcoat combo) and I like that solid link to the past).

Black tie is informal so you could pretty much wear oxfords/etc (patent or not); pumps are only optional.

TBH, patent is really subjective: as long as the shoes are polished very shiny then they are good enough.

 

[Bugsy]

From this week's Art Deco Gala in my 1940's dinner suit.

 

[Tomasso]

Shaquille O'Neil conducting the Boston Pops.

............................:wacko:

 

[Charlie Huang]

............................:wacko:

He's wearing livery... And that bow tie is far too small compared to his build (I won't highlight the nitty gritty details as they are apparent)...

 

[Charlie Huang]

From this week's Art Deco Gala in my 1940's dinner suit.

Elegant.

 

[sproily]

My black tie

here's a picture that shows the fit a little better

here is the other waistcoat

 

[Bugsy]

My black tie

here's a picture that shows the fit a little better

here is the other waistcoat

I love that waistcoat. Very elegant and very classic.