Custom tailcoat

Types of custom tailcoat

A custom tailcoat is a coat that is short in the front and long in the back. It is worn for formal occasions and by people who work in certain jobs. Here are some of its types:

• Semi-Fitted Tailcoat

  This type of custom tailcoat is designed to be in-between the loose and fitting styles. It is not tight but also not very loose. The shoulders are made to fit well, and the chest area is slightly tight. The waistline is slightly smaller than the chest and hip measurements. The hem length is also short to give a semi-formal look. It is not too tight, so the person wearing it is comfortable. It is appropriate for official functions that require a formal look.

• Fitted Tailcoat

  A fitted custom tailcoat is one that is made to be tight on the body. It has a slim fit style. The shoulders are narrow, and the chest area is tight. The waist is much smaller than the chest size, making the waist look slim. The length of the hem is short compared to loose-fitting ones. The sleeves are also tight and short. This coat is for the slim or athletic build. It is suitable for official functions where a modern and sleek look is preferred. Examples include black tie events. It is also worn with a tuxedo and is very stylish.

• Loose-Fitting Tailcoat

  This coat is not tight but rather comfortable and roomy. The shoulders are wide, and the chest area is also wide. The waistline is not as narrow as the others, and the hips are also wide. The hem length is long, and the sleeves are longer than the fitted ones. It is suitable for different body shapes, and the wearer does not feel constricted. It is ideal for occasions where the wearer may not want a tight coat. It is worn for formal functions where comfort is key. It is also preferred by those who like a spacious and airy feel.

• Classic Tailcoat

  This is a timeless style that is short in front and long at the back. It has a slim fit look but is not too tight. The shoulders are narrow, and the chest is tight, while the waist is much smaller than the hips. The sleeves are long, and the hem reaches the knees. The coat is usually black or dark blue and is worn with a white shirt and bow tie. It is suitable for black tie events, weddings, and other formal occasions. It is also worn by waiters, some military officers, and others for its elegant and traditional look.

Design of custom tailcoat

When it comes to the design of a custom tailcoat, there are numerous key elements that are taken into consideration. This includes the general cut, length, lapel style, and other features that are able to reflect personal style as well as the occasion in question. Here are some of the major design components:

• Cut and Fit

  The cut and fit of a custom tailcoat is a well-thought-out design component that is able to provide an aesthetic look and comfort to the wearer. The cut of the tailcoat is usually slim fit, which emphasizes the slim part of the waist, giving an elegant and modern look. The fit is also customized to fit the individual, which provides comfort and enhances the overall look of the suit. This design aspect is crucial in ensuring that the tailcoat looks good and feels comfortable on the wearer, which enhances their confidence and overall appearance. Additionally, the cut and fit of the custom tailcoat can be altered to fit different occasions and events, which makes it a versatile piece of clothing. For instance, a more relaxed fit and a less aggressive cut can be used for events during the day, while a more fitted and aggressive cut can be used for formal events at night.

• Length

  When designing a custom tailcoat, the length is a crucial aspect that determines its formality and overall appearance. Traditionally, tailcoats feature a distinct cut with a short front that extends to a longer back, forming a split at the center. This asymmetrical length is fundamental in defining the classic style of a tailcoat, adding elegance and sophistication. Typically, the length of the tailcoat reaches the mid-thigh at the front and falls to the knees or slightly below at the back. However, this can be changed depending on personal taste or contemporary trends. The length of the tailcoat is also important as it influences its compatibility with other components of the outfit, such as the waistcoat and trousers, in order to achieve a balanced and polished look.

• Lapel Style

  Lapel style in a custom tailcoat has a major influence on the overall look and formality of the outfit. Traditionally, tailcoats are slim peak lapels that are associated with elegance and formality. This style is characterized by lapels that are narrow and pointy, which are turned up to meet at the peak of the collar. This brings out a sharp and sophisticated look. The peak lapel is considered more formal compared to shawl lapels, which have a smoother and more rounded appearance. This makes them ideal for black tie or white tie events. The choice of lapel style can also have a major impact on the silhouette and aesthetic of the tailcoat, contributing to its timeless and classic appeal in formal menswear.

• Fabric and Texture

  Fabric and texture play a significant role in the overall design of a custom tailcoat. The choice of fabric determines the look, feel, and drape of the tailcoat. For instance, lightweight wool blends are popular for their versatility and comfort. They also offer a smooth finish and excellent draping qualities. This helps in creating a tailored fit that enhances the silhouette. In addition, the texture of the fabric adds depth and visual interest to the design. For example, a subtle herringbone or twill pattern can introduce a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the simplicity of the tailcoat's design. Additionally, customizations such as satin lapels or velvet accents can further enhance the texture and elevate the overall aesthetic of the tailcoat, making it suitable for various formal occasions and personal preferences.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of custom tailcoat

How to wear

Choosing the right fit is crucial when wearing a custom-tailored tailcoat suit. The coat should be fitted but not tight, with a defined waist and slightly flared back. The length of the coat should be long enough to cover the hips and extend slightly beyond the waistband of the trousers. The sleeves should end just above the wrist bone, allowing a small portion of the shirt cuffs to show. The trousers should be tailored to fit snugly at the waist without a belt, as the coat will hold them in place. They should have a slight break over the shoes, maintaining a clean and polished appearance.

Pair the tailcoat with a well-fitted dress shirt, preferably white. Opt for a shirt with a classic spread or wing collar, which complements the formal look. The shirt should be crisp, clean, and properly ironed, with the cuffs neatly fastened and possibly showing a bit of the cuff length. Choose a tie or bow tie that matches the occasion and complements the ensemble. A solid color or subtle pattern tie is suitable for most formal events, while a classic black bow tie is a timeless choice.

Complete the ensemble with appropriately polished dress shoes. Choose shoes in black leather with a sleek and elegant design, such as oxfords or loafers. Ensure the shoes are well-maintained, polished, and free of scuffs or blemishes. Pay attention to accessories like cufflinks, a pocket square, and a formal belt or suspenders. Select accessories that harmonize with the overall color scheme and style of the suit, adding a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the tailored tailcoat's classic elegance.

How to match

Matching a custom tailcoat suit involves harmonizing various components to achieve a cohesive and stylish appearance. Start with the tailcoat itself, which is typically a dark color like black, navy, or charcoal gray. Ensure the coat fits well and is tailored to your body for a sharp silhouette. Next, select matching trousers that complement the color and style of the coat. Ideally, the trousers should be in the same color as the coat for a uniform look. However, some modern interpretations allow for contrasting trouser colors, such as lighter shades like gray or beige, to create a more contemporary and versatile ensemble.

For the shirt, opt for a classic white dress shirt. This timeless choice complements any tailcoat color and maintains a clean and formal appearance. Ensure the shirt is well-fitted and pressed, with a crisp collar that frames your face. Another option is to choose a light pastel-colored shirt, such as light blue or pale pink, which can add a subtle touch of color while still adhering to a formal aesthetic.

When it comes to accessories, select a tie or bow tie that coordinates with the color of your tailcoat. Solid-colored ties in dark shades like navy, black, or burgundy work well for a sophisticated look. Alternatively, you can opt for a tie with a subtle pattern or texture to add visual interest without compromising elegance. If you're wearing a bow tie, choose one that complements the overall color scheme and style of your ensemble. Finally, pay attention to your shoes, opting for polished leather dress shoes in black or dark brown. Ensure they match the formality of your outfit and are well-maintained to complete the tailored look.

Q&A

Q1: What are the key features of custom tailcoats?

A1: Custom tailcoats are characterized by their distinctive long, split-back design, which extends into two tails. They usually feature a fitted waist, wide lapels, and a single or double-button closure in the front. Additionally, they are custom-made to ensure a perfect fit, often including hand-sewn details and high-quality lining materials for comfort and style.

Q2: How long should a tailcoat be?

A2: The length of a tailcoat varies depending on personal preference and the specific style of the coat. Generally, the front of the tailcoat should fall just below the waistband of the trousers, while the back should extend down to the mid-thigh or slightly lower. This length ensures the distinctive "tails" are visible while maintaining a sleek and structured appearance.

Q3: Are custom tailcoats only for formal events?

A3: While custom tailcoats are predominantly associated with formal wear, their versatility allows them to be adapted for semi-formal and even some informal occasions. When paired with the right trousers and accessories, tailcoats can be styled for various events, including weddings, galas, and upscale dinners, as well as more casual gatherings where a polished look is desired.

Q4: How should one care for a custom-tailored tailcoat?

A4: To maintain the quality and appearance of a custom-tailored tailcoat, it's essential to follow specific care instructions. Always check the care label for specific recommendations. Generally, it’s best to have tailcoats dry cleaned by professionals to preserve the fabric and construction. Avoid hanging the coat on wire hangers to prevent distortion; instead, use padded or wooden hangers. Ensure the coat is stored in a cool, dry place, preferably in a garment bag, to protect it from dust and moisture.