I get this question every time from my clients. Let me explain without advocating things. The main physical difference between a suit and tuxedo is that tuxedos have satin details. Generally, tuxedos are built with satin facing on the lapels, pocket trim, buttons and satin strip that runs down the leg of the pants. Suits don’t come with satin, and typically feature plastic buttons or buttons characterized by the same fabric as that of the coat or self-buttons.

Tuxedos are traditionally accessorized with bow ties, a vest or cummerbund, whilst suits with a matching vest or long tie. I don’t say that suits cannot be worn with a bow tie or a tuxedo accessorized with a long tie. You may try if you wish. It’s simply the other way round which is more traditional and methodical. Of course, you can the break the rules based on the formality of the situation.

Now, coming to the question whether you should wear a tuxedo or suit for your wedding depends not necessarily on the physical differences but the message that a suit or tuxedo would want to convey.

It is your big day, and you are entitled to wear whatever you feel is right and however you want to. Not just you, your partner may probably feel the same way. But the truth is you can dress yourself a nice suit to a wedding and feel sharp and dressed up, and so do the attendees or guests. Besides, the same suit can turn into a work wear to feel organized and in control for the rest of the time. For your wedding, you’ll prefer to wear something that differentiates you from the crowd and your big day from the rest. That’s when a tuxedo really comes in more than handy.