| Formalwear Q & A |
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| Q: |
What is the difference between a shawl lapel, notch lapel and peak lapel? Are there times when one is more appropriate than the others? |
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| A: |
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The lapel is smooth and rounded. A shawl lapel tuxedo is best for social occasions. |
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The lapel has a triangular indentation cut where the lapel joins the collar. A notch lapel tuxedo is best for a business formal setting. |
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The lapel is a broad V-shape that points up and out just below the collar line. Popular in the 1920's, the peak lapel is enjoying a renaissance. |
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| Q: |
When is a white dinner jacket appropriate? If I have a tux, would a white dinner jacket make sense for me? |
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| A: |
 The conditions for a white dinner jacket are dictated solely by the climate. In a word, "hot". In North America, Memorial Day through Labor Day is loosely white dinner jacket season.
But the white dinner jacket is perfect for any warm weather formal occasion, such as a February Caribbean cruise.
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| Q: |
Is a vest preferable to a cummerbund? |
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| A: |
 It's more a question of style really. Vests are becoming more fashionable right now, and a contrasting vest is an easy way to diversify your tuxedo options. Other pluses: a vest makes one look thinner and is more comfortable when sitting down to dinner.
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| Q: |
What type of shoes should I wear with my tux? |
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| A: |
A patent leather shoe is best. You might be able to get away with your black cap toe shoes, but those in-the-know will consider you unaware or worse yet, cheap.
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