beyond the lbd: the little black tuxedo
The fall season is officially here and, if you live in the DC area, with it comes fall gala season. I have been busy dressing clients in gowns, cocktail dresses and more for calendars chock full of evening events.
I love a great dress, but as I am getting ready for my own events like the Alexandria Stylebook bash, emceeing a fashion show at Alliance Francaise DC and more, I have one and only one go-to: my black tuxedo. No garment makes me feel equal parts empowered, elegant, sexy and, yes, a little rebellious.
The woman-in-a-tux look is not new. Think Marlene Dietrich, the queen of androgyny. Since Yves Saint Laurent designed “le smoking” 50 years ago — the first tuxedo for women — the iconic look has had its place in women’s fashion, ushering in the modern-day power suit.
I prefer the traditional black-on-black, but there are different variations like the black pant with the white jacket, velvet and more. Here are a few things to keep in mind when working your tux mojo.
1.) Add sparkle. The black on black always feels more feminine and dressier with some sparkle. I usually keep it to the ears and on the wrists rather than with necklace. Keeping the neck bare is key. You don’t want anything to distract from that shiny lapel that makes the tux, a tux.
2.) Make a statement with your makeup. The tux look is straight from the boys so to keep your look feminine, amp up your makeup. A bold, red lip is the perfect companion for a black tux.
3.) Only stilettos need apply. I get it. Sensible shoes. I work in real-world style where shoes that won’t hobble you get preferential treatment. But with a tux, the shoe can make or break the look. Opt for a heel — even a low one.
4.) Own it. A tux on a woman is power. It’s a look. However you end up styling it, you are making a statement. Work that statement.
- About the company
DC Style Factory is a personal shopping and styling service for men and women looking to add polish and individuality to their wardrobes. We believe personal style is for anyone who wants it — regardless of age, size or budget.
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[…] Rosana adds: Last time we saw Zendaya, she was the picture of feminine beauty in a Marchesa ruffled gown. This go-around, she gave us exactly what the Grammys are supposed to give: a shot of glam, loads of sexy and a healthy helping of just plain weird. Zendaya in her tux + mullet was pure Grammy perfection. Plus, you can never go wrong with a menswear-inspired look in my book. […]