Tuxedos for Gentlemen Over Sixty: Comfortable and Dignified

At sixty and beyond, a good tuxedo does not need to chase fashion. What counts is that you feel at ease in it, can stand and sit naturally, and look composed at a grandchild's wedding, an anniversary dinner or a gala. For that, the cut, the cloth and the small practical details should work with your body rather than hold it in.

A moderately generous cut, soft shoulders

By this age the body has often changed: shoulders slope a little more, the middle is fuller, and the shoulder joint and arms move less freely. A slim, close cut tends to wrinkle across the back and makes it hard to raise your arms. A moderately generous cut leaves enough room across the chest and body while still keeping a neat waist, without hanging loose.

A soft shoulder is a sensible choice: thin padding and a natural line that follows the shoulder you actually have. It also makes the jacket lighter to wear over a whole evening. A high, structured shoulder can look wrong if your own shoulders slope. Our piece on wearing a tuxedo at different ages compares the age groups.

Details that make dressing easier

A few small things make putting on and taking off the outfit much easier:

• A fly-front shirt: a strip of cloth covers the buttons, so you only fasten two or three small studs near the top and the front looks clean.
• Braces: they hold high-waisted trousers at the natural waist without a tight belt, and the waistband does not dig into the stomach during a long dinner.
• Side adjusters on the waistband: a little extra room after a large meal.
• A pre-tied bow with an adjustable strap: easy to fasten and tidy if it is well made. If you prefer a hand-tied bow, that is a matter of taste. See hand-tied and pre-tied bows.
• Slip-on shoes with a cushioned lining, so you do not have to bend to tie laces.

Classic colours

Classic colours such as black or midnight blue are durable, stay in style for years and photograph well. Against salt-and-pepper or white hair, both give an elegant contrast. TUX-048 is a black two-button tuxedo in a classic cut, and TUX-078 is a classic black single-button style with a shawl lapel.

If you like a touch of colour, put it in the accessories, such as a pocket square or cufflinks, rather than the whole suit.

Light cloth that stays cool

Older men are often more sensitive to heat, especially after sitting for hours in a crowded hall. Lightweight, open-weave wool with a half lining breathes better than a fully lined jacket. Avoid heavy cloth and blends with a high synthetic content, which hold heat. The lighter the cloth, the less the jacket drags on your shoulders after a few hours.

Avoid too many layers as well. If you choose a three-piece, ask for a thin waistcoat lining, or wear a cummerbund instead of a waistcoat to keep cooler.

Shoes and stance

The lower half deserves a word too. Patent shoes look sharp but are stiff, so if your feet are sensitive, a polished soft-leather oxford or an opera pump is kinder and still in the spirit of black tie. The sole should grip on a slippery banquet floor. Trousers should sit at a high rise with a moderately straight leg and a hem that just touches the shoe, so nothing catches when you walk.

What to check at the fitting

• Be measured standing and seated, since posture changes the numbers at the stomach and back.
• Raise your arms, embrace someone and shake hands in front of the mirror to see whether the jacket pulls.
• Check that the collar and bow do not feel tight when you turn your head.
• Leave a little ease at the waist, so you stay comfortable after the meal.

If you are the father of the bride or groom, or the grandfather of the family, read the father of the bride in a tuxedo to coordinate with the whole ceremony.

Book a fitting at Mon Amie

We make each suit to the individual, so the shoulder, the width of the body and the jacket length can be set to your habits. See our bespoke tuxedo page, then book a fitting to talk it through with a consultant in person.