Morning Suit Hire FAQs

What Is A Morning Suit?

A morning suit is a traditional formal attire for daytime events, such as weddings and horse racing. It typically consists of a tailored jacket with a single button, worn with matching trousers and a vest, and a bow tie. The jacket is usually made of a lightweight fabric, such as wool, and is typically grey or black. The trousers typically have a stripe down the side, and the vest is usually made of the same material as the jacket. The morning suit is often worn with a top hat, but this is optional. This attire is considered more formal than a business suit but less formal than a tuxedo or dinner suit.

When To Wear A Morning Suit?

A morning suit is typically worn for formal daytime events, such as weddings, christenings, and other important celebrations. It is considered a more traditional attire option and is appropriate for events before 6 p.m. Some key factors that determine whether a morning suit is appropriate include the time of day, the formality of the event, and the dress code. It's always a good idea to check with the hosts or consult the invitation for guidance on the appropriate attire.

Why Is It Called A Morning Suit?

The "morning suit" comes from the tradition of wearing it in the morning, during the daytime, for formal events. Historically, it was the standard attire for gentlemen attending events such as weddings, horse races, and other social gatherings before six o'clock in the evening. The suit is characterized by its somber colour palette, typically black or grey, and its more formal cut and style than the more relaxed lounge suits. Over time, the morning suit's popularity has declined and is now mainly reserved for special occasions, but it remains a classic choice for formal daytime events.

Can You Wear A Morning Suit To A Funeral?

Yes, a morning suit is an appropriate attire for a funeral. However, it's always best to follow the dress code requested by the bereaved family or to dress in a manner that is respectful and sensitive to the occasion.

What Is Morning Suit Dress Code?

A morning suit is a traditional dress code for formal events before 6 p.m., typically for weddings or horse racing events like the Ascot. The attire usually consists of a black or grey tailcoat, matching trousers, waistcoat, white dress shirt, black or gray top hat, and black dress shoes. A black silk top hat and patent leather shoes may be worn for a more formal look.

What Shirt Do You Wear With A Morning Suit?

The traditional shirt worn with a morning suit is a white dress shirt with a wing-tipped collar and double cuffs. The shirt should fit well and be made of high-quality fabric, such as cotton or linen. The collar should be stiff and crisp, and the cuffs should be clean and wrinkle-free. It's essential to wear a freshly pressed and ironed shirt with a morning suit, as the outfit is generally associated with formal and sophisticated events. A white pocket square can also be added for a touch of elegance.

Are Morning Suits Different From Tail Coats?

Morning suits and tailcoats are similar but distinct formal attire styles. A morning suit typically consists of a tailcoat, trousers, waistcoat, shirt, top hat, and shoes. On the other hand, a tailcoat is a specific type of jacket worn as part of formal attire. The main difference between the two is that a morning suit is a complete outfit, while a tailcoat is just a part of an outfit.

The tailcoat is a distinctive jacket characterized by its long tails in the back and the absence of a front closure. The jacket is typically made of wool or silk and is worn with matching trousers, a waistcoat, a shirt, and formal shoes.

Ultimately, a morning suit is a complete formal outfit that includes a tailcoat, while a tailcoat is just a jacket worn as part of formal attire.

Can Tartan Trews Be Worn With A Morning Suit?

Tartan trews (tartan trousers) can be worn with a morning suit, although it is considered less traditional. Morning suits are typically worn with solid-colored trousers, such as grey or black. Wearing tartan trews with a morning suit can add a touch of individuality and personal style. Still, it is essential to ensure that the tartan pattern chosen complements the rest of the outfit and is appropriate for the occasion.

It is also important to note that some events and occasions may have strict dress codes that do not allow for deviations from traditional formal wear, so it is best to check with the host or venue before wearing tartan trews with a morning suit. It is always best to wear the attire correctly, with all the required components, to maintain the formal and sophisticated look associated with the morning suit.

Can You Wear A Bow Tie With A Morning Suit?

Yes, a bow tie can be worn with a morning suit. The bow tie is a traditional accessory for the morning suit and adds to its formal and sophisticated appearance. A traditional morning suit ensemble includes a bow tie in a complementary colour to the waistcoat, such as black or white. The bow tie should match the colour of the trousers and the shoes, creating a cohesive look.

It is important to note that some events and occasions may have strict dress codes that require a specific type of tie, so it is best to check with the host or venue before wearing a bow tie with a morning suit. It is always best to wear the attire correctly, with all the required components, to maintain the formal and sophisticated look associated with the morning suit.

What Is The Difference Between A 2-Piece and 3-Piece Morning Suit?

A two-piece morning suit consists of a jacket and trousers, while a three-piece morning suit includes a jacket, trousers, and waistcoat.

The waistcoat is an essential component of the morning suit and adds a layer of sophistication and formality to the outfit. The waistcoat also helps to fill the gap between the jacket and trousers, creating a cohesive look.

For more formal events and occasions, a three-piece morning suit is typically preferred, as it offers a more traditional and sophisticated appearance. However, a two-piece morning suit can still be worn for less formal events and can be a more practical and comfortable option.

Ultimately, choosing between a two-piece and three-piece morning suit will depend on the occasion, personal preference, and dress code requirements.

How Long Should A Morning Suit Jacket Be?

A morning suit jacket should generally reach the top of the thigh or just below the knee. It should be long enough to provide coverage for the body and maintain a polished and formal appearance but not so long that it becomes cumbersome. The precise length may vary based on personal preference and body type, but a size that falls in the mid-thigh to knee range is typical.

How To Wear A Morning Suit For Royal Ascot?

Here are some guidelines for wearing a morning suit for Royal Ascot:

• Jacket: The traditional morning suit jacket is black and made from wool or a wool blend. It should have peaked lapels and a single-button closure.
• Trousers: The trousers should match the jacket and be of the same material. They should be straight-legged with a silk or satin stripe down the outside leg.
• Waistcoat: A 3-piece morning suit typically includes a waistcoat that should match the jacket and trousers. The waistcoat should have a V-neckline and should be worn fastened.
• Shirt: A crisp, white dress shirt should be worn with a morning suit. A winged collar is traditional, but a turn-down collar is also acceptable.
• Tie: A black or navy tie is suitable for Royal Ascot. A silk tie is preferred.
• Shoes: Black, polished leather shoes should be worn with a morning suit. Oxfords or brogues are both acceptable.
• Accessories: A top hat, black gloves, and a pocket square can add the finishing touches to a morning suit.

Royal Ascot has a dress code, and these guidelines should be followed to ensure proper attire. Check the official Royal Ascot website for more information.