Men’s accessories
antly st y l e d fr o m h e a d t o t o e
Braces Braces are the most traditional way of keeping trousers in place and are usually indispensable, as belts are not allowed when wearing a tailcoat or tuxedo. Suitable braces must be white when worn with a tailcoat and, if worn with a tuxedo, can be black or another colour to match the bow tie. They should have elegant silk ribbons at the front and only be elasticated at the back.
F o t o : R o m y H u b e gg e r , C a r o s t r a s n i k , w e mp e , m o n t b l a n c , FALKE
Hat & scarf An elegant white silk scarf can be worn with tuxedos and tailcoats. The classic top hat is covered with black velvet, and can only be worn with a tailcoat and must be handed in at the clock room together with the white scarf. The old fashioned opera hat – also called “chapeau claque” – consists of a wired frame that is covered with silk and is collapsible. A black cape is a particularly elegant supplement to a tailcoat, the proverbial “icing on the cake”. If you want to go for an exceptionally traditional look, add a black cane with a silver knob.
The gloves Nowadays, white evening gloves made of silk or cotton are usually preferred to the classic kid gloves. With the exception of official state receptions, they can be handed in at the cloak room, although, according to the conservative dress code, they should be worn all evening with a tailcoat and only removed when eating or shaking hands. While wearing gloves with a tuxedo or evening suit is no gaffe, it is quite unusual to do so these days, except at some dance schools.
Dresscode • 117