There are few garments that can command attention and project quiet authority like the tuxedo. It’s not just formal wear; it’s a statement! A well-fitting tux signifies confidence, power, and poise, so it’s no wonder it’s long been used to set the tone for some of the most iconic moments in cinema history.

Whether it’s draped over a suave spy, a dashing leading man, or a poker player at the top of their game, the tuxedo is, quite simply, timeless. But, what is it about this particular outfit that transcends both trends and eras?

The Tuxedo’s Power in Cinema

Let’s start with analysing the use of a tuxedo in costume design. Beginning with the suavest of all spies, 007.

James Bond’s choice tuxedo isn’t just a fashion statement – it often serves as an extension of his persona. From the very first appearance of the character on the big screen in Dr. No (1962), the tuxedo has become synonymous with the British secret agent’s calculated coolness.

It’s not just that the tuxedo fits him perfectly; it’s the way and the situations in which he wears it. The tailored dinner jacket becomes weaponized under Bond’s command, making him appear composed and unflappable, even when under extreme pressure.

We saw this perfectly demonstrated in Casino Royale (2006). Martin Campbell’s gritty reboot of the franchise needed to establish a new Bond for a new era, but still pay homage to the character’s iconic history.Dressing Craig in a classic black tux with peaked lapels was an excellent choice.

Of course, the tuxedo had already earned its place as a symbol of celluloid masculinity long before Ian Fleming’s secret agent hit the screen. Hollywood legends like Cary Grant in To Catch a Thief (1955) and Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca (1942) were masters of wearing a tuxedo, although they took very different approaches.

For Grant’s performance, the tuxedo was all about effortless elegance – To Catch a Thief’s John Robie’s cool demeanour and charm were amplified by the classic suit. In Casablanca, Bogart’s Rick Blaine uses his white tuxedo to assert his identity as a more world-weary man who’s seen it all and isn’t easily swayed.

Reinventing the Tuxedo

Here in the 21st century, the tuxedo remains a staple in film wardrobes. Increasingly, directors and moviemakers look to reinterpret formalwear to further support an actor’s portrayal. Take Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby, 2013). Gatsby’s bold, extravagant suits signal his quest for transformation, power and the pursuit of a new identity.

Then, there’s Keanu Reeves’ John Wick (2014), whose tuxedo becomes more than just a stylish outfit – it’s an essential part of his lethal persona. The bulletproof tuxedo Wick wears is both elegant and seriously practical – this isn’t just about looking good, but about meaning business.

Beyond the Screen 

While the tuxedo’s place in film is undeniable, its allure doesn’t stop at the silver screen. Beyond balls and formal events, wearing a tuxedo is a must in leisure venues like the casino – particularly at high-stakes poker tables. Poker, at its core, is a game of perception as much as it is a game of probability, so the way a player dresses can impact both how they’re perceived by opponents, and how they perceive themselves.

As demonstrated by Craig’s Bond during his nail-biting poker game against the deadly Le Chiffre, wearing a well-tailored tuxedo to the poker table is a powerful visual cue. It signals to your opponents that you’re not only serious about the game, but you also know how to quiet;y command attention.

Even in the age of online poker, where players may never sit face-to-face, the ritual of dressing well still persists. Many online players create custom avatars dressed in tuxedos to subtly communicate their confidence. Whether in real life or online, wearing a tux, then, can be as valuable as knowing how best to play different poker hands during the game. And, while casual games have more relaxed rules around attire, dressing up remains a strategy in high-stakes circles.

Choosing the Perfect Tuxedo

Inspired to incorporate a formal suit into your wardrobe? Choosing the right fabric, fit, and cut can make all the difference between looking sharp and looking outdated. Opt for a modern cut with clean, structured lines that c