Louis Copeland’s Guide to a Black-Tie Wedding

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Tuxedo for a Black-Tie Dress Code

Black tie weddings have made a return, and it is easy to see why. There is something undeniably special about the elegance a tuxedo brings to the day – Sharp, timeless and designed to elevate the moment. While black tie once meant sticking closely to tradition, today’s groom has far more freedom to refine the look and make it uniquely his own.

At Louis Copeland & Sons, we have dressed generations of grooms, and one thing is clear: The modern black-tie groom wants a look that feels classic, polished with personality and that’s where the right details make all the difference.

Choosing Your Tuxedo Lapel: A Small Detail with Big Impact

If there’s one feature that quietly defines a tuxedo, it’s the lapel. It frames the face, shapes the silhouette, and sets the tone for the whole outfit.

Shawl Lapel: Smooth, rounded and effortlessly elegant. Think old-school sophistication, perfectly suited to evening weddings and candlelit venues.

Peak Lapel: Angular and commanding, the peak lapel broadens the shoulders and creates structure. It’s especially striking on a double-breasted jacket and is a favourite among grooms who want a confident, modern look without straying from classic black-tie codes.

Notch Lapel: A more contemporary take, the notch lapel softens the formality slightly while still keeping things polished. It’s increasingly popular for modern weddings and relaxed luxury venues.

Our recommendation? Try each one. The right lapel becomes obvious the moment you put the jacket on.

Single vs. Double Breasted: The Modern Groom’s Dilemma

The single-breasted tuxedo remains a black-tie standard. It’s clean, versatile and universally flattering, making it a reliable choice for almost any groom.

But for those looking to elevate their look, the double-breasted tuxedo has become a standout favourite. It creates a strong, uninterrupted silhouette, removes the need for a waistcoat, and brings an understated sophistication that photographs beautifully.

If you want a timeless twist, double-breasted is hard to beat.

Beyond Black: Colour Options for the Contemporary Groom

Black will always be the foundation of formalwear – but today’s groom has more ways to introduce depth and personality while staying firmly within black-tie expectations.

Off-White Dinner Jacket

A superb choice for summer weddings. When paired with black trousers, it creates a refined, almost Riviera-style look that feels fresh while remaining thoroughly elegant.

Midnight Blue & Navy

Rich and flattering under evening lighting, these shades offer a subtle alternative to classic black. Midnight blue, in particular, has long been beloved for its depth and sophistication.

Velvet Dinner Jackets (Winter’s Secret Weapon)

For winter weddings, velvet brings warmth, texture and quiet luxury.

·       Traditional: Black and Midnight

·       Personality: Burgundy, deep green, or jewel tones.

Velvet works especially well in atmospheric venues – Think candlelight, heritage spaces, or festive celebrations.

The Importance of Tailoring

Even the finest tuxedo needs to be expertly fitted. The structure, the drape, the comfort – all of it comes down to tailoring.

At Louis Copeland & Sons, every tuxedo is tailored in-house to ensure:

• A clean, balanced shoulder line 
• A proper sleeve length 
• A precise trouser break 
• A tapered, flattering waist 
• Proportions that complement your build 

And if you want something truly personal, Our Made-to-Measure service lets you create a tuxedo from the ground up. You choose the cloth, the lapel, the lining, the buttons - even personalised embroidery. It's your wedding day - your tux should feel like it was made just for you. 

Black-Tie may have its foundations in tradition, but today it's about owning your own look with confidence. Whether you lean toward a classic shawl lapel, a sleek double-breasted cut or a velvet dinner jacket - Your outfit should feel both timeless and true to your personal style. 

Visit your nearest Louis Copeland & Sons store to explore the full black-tie collection or book a Made-to-Measure consultation to craft something entirely your own.

Black-Tie Frequently Asked Questions 

What should a groom wear to a black-tie wedding?

A tuxedo with satin lapels, a crisp white shirt, a black bow tie and formal shoes. From there, you can add refinements that suit your personal style.

Which Lapel style works best for grooms?

Peak lapels offer formality and structure; shawl lapel brings classic elegance; notch lapels give a modern, contemporary twist.

What is a black-tie event?

A black‑tie event is one of the most formal dress codes, centred around classic elegance. For men, it means wearing a tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and formal black shoes. The aim is to look polished, refined and completely occasion‑ready

Do I need to wear a bow tie for a black‑tie wedding?

Yes. A bow tie is traditionally expected for black‑tie events, and it’s one of the details that sets the dress code apart. While there are many modern takes on black‑tie style, the bow tie remains the defining accessory that completes the tuxedo.