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9. Here's a glossary of tuxedo and formalwear terms
ASCOT: A cravat with wide square ends that is secured with an ornamental pin of some sort.
BLACK TIE INVITED: This is an event where you are encouraged to wear a tuxedo or dinner jacket, but it is not required for you to do so. A coat and tie should be worn.
BLACK TIE OPTIONAL: This is an event where either a tuxedo or black suit is requested but not absolutely required. A suit, not a sport coat is necessary.
BLACK TIE REQUIRED: This is an event where a tuxedo or dinner jacket is required. When they say required that's it means, don't show up unless you're properly dressed.
BOUTONNIERE: This comes from the french word for buttonhole. It's a flower or sometimes a small group of flowers worn in the buttonhole or on the left lapel.
BOW TIE: This usually sets the standard for formal ties. Black is always the preferred color. The come pre-tied with a neck bank that is adjustable.
BRACES: This is the English word for suspenders. They are usually a button on variety but can also come as clip-ons.
CANE: A straight black "stick" with white tips at both ends. Usually part of formal attire with coat tails, top hat and white gloves.
CONTINENTAL VEST (aka waistcoat): This is a backless vest made to accommodate all sizes of men. The adjustable strap around the neck and across allow this to happen.
CUFF-LINKS: Worn on the cuffs of the shirt to provide a more formal look than a button. Available in gold and silver.
CUMMERBUND: A wide horizontally pleated sash that is worn around the waist, usually in black.
FULLBACK VEST: Like a continental vest only with a full back. Has an adjustable strap across the back to give the best fit.
HANDERKERCHIEF/POCKET SQUARE: Can be made of silk or stain, fits in the breast pocket of the tuxedo and can be folded in several different ways.
NOTCHED LAPEL: This is a lapel with a 90 degree cut made in the lapel where it joins the collar.
PEAKED LAPEL: This a a lapel with a broad V-shaped cut with the points of the lapel going upwards and outwards wider than the lapel at the collar line.
SHAWL COLLAR (LAPEL): A smooth, rounded edge lapel.
VENT: The slit at the center or sometimes two slits on either side of the back bottom of a coat or jacket.
WINDSOR: A wide triangluar knotted tie, usually worn with a wide spread collar. Comes pre-tied with an adjustable neck band.
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