Tuxedo Accessories Checklist
Renting or buying a tuxedo is the easy part. The accessories are where people get caught out: the studs nobody mentioned, the missing cufflinks, the belt that should not be there. Use this checklist before any black-tie event and you will not be the guy borrowing safety pins in the parking lot.
The Essentials
1. A Black Bow Tie
The centerpiece. For classic black tie, choose black silk or satin to match the facings on your lapels. A self-tie bow tie is the gold standard: it looks better and shows you know what you are doing. Browse our Black Tie & Formal collection, or our Luxe bow ties for a richer finish. At weddings, a color that matches the party is fine.
2. A Formal Shirt
White, with a pleated or piqué front and French cuffs. The collar is either a turndown (spread) or a wing collar. If you are not sure which, read our wing collar shirt guide, and keep the points sharp with collar stays.
3. Shirt Studs
Tuxedo shirts usually replace the top front buttons with studs, small decorative fasteners, usually three or four. Onyx (black) and mother of pearl are the classics.
4. Cufflinks
French cuffs have no buttons, so cufflinks are not optional. Buy them as a set with your studs so the metals and stones match.
5. A Cummerbund or a Waistcoat
This covers your waistband. Choose one, never both, and skip both with a double-breasted jacket. Our cummerbund guide explains which way the pleats go.
6. Suspenders (Braces)
Tuxedo trousers usually have no belt loops, so use button-on braces, not a belt. See our guide to button suspenders.
Tuxedo studs and cufflinks
- HAWSON Mother of Pearl Cufflinks & Studs Set — classic and elegant, in a gift box
- HAWSON Cufflinks and Tuxedo Studs Set — another matched set with gift box
- Round Tuxedo Cufflinks & Stud Kit — a budget-friendly option
And the rest
- Adjustable 4-Pleat Satin Cummerbund — black and colors available
- Cardi Wing Collar Tuxedo Shirt, ¼" Pleat
- Würkin Stiffs Brass Collar Stays
The Finishing Touches
7. Black Dress Socks
Thin black socks in fine cotton, wool or silk. Over-the-calf socks are best, so no leg shows when you sit down.
8. Formal Shoes
Black patent leather oxfords or very highly polished black calf oxfords. Keep them sleek, with no broguing, and never brown.
9. A White Pocket Square
A simple white linen or silk square, folded flat or with a few casual points. It softens the black and white without competing with the bow tie.
10. A Watch (or No Watch)
Traditionally, a gentleman does not check the time at a formal event. If you wear one, choose a slim dress watch on a leather strap that slides under the cuff. Leave the sports and smart watches at home.
11. A Boutonniere (for Weddings)
Worn on the left lapel, through the buttonhole if your jacket has one. Coordinate with the wedding flowers.
What to Leave at Home
- A belt: it creates lumps under the cummerbund and clashes with braces.
- A long necktie: black tie means a bow tie.
- A pre-tied bow tie that sits crooked.
- Novelty socks and bright watch straps for a strictly black-tie event.
Dressing a wedding party? Our wedding and groomsmen collection makes it easy to match everyone.
The Bottom Line
A complete black-tie look comes down to a short list: bow tie, formal shirt, studs, cufflinks, cummerbund or waistcoat, braces, black socks and formal shoes. Lay it all out the night before, check it against this list, and all you will have to do on the day is tie your bow tie.
More Bow Tie Guides
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