Traditional bow ties are black satin or grosgrain, though brightly colored and patterned bow ties are very popular today. What to Wear You may wear a waistcoat OR a cummerbund, never both, with your tuxedo. Waistcoats are false-back vests secured across your back with a thin strap. Cummerbunds are worn around your waist, attaching in the back with a small clasp. Your cummerbund should match your bow tie.
Tradition calls for cummerbunds to be worn with the pleats facing up.
They are traditionally patent leather pumps or seamless lace-ups. These shoes should be worn with lightweight black stockings. A black chesterfield coat with velvet collar is the preferred outerwear with a tuxedo, but any dark overcoat is appropriate. If you are invited to a black tie social function, you will be expected to wear a black tuxedo and dress pants, a white dress shirt with turned-down collar, a black or patterned bow tie and cummerbund, black hose and plain black or patent leather oxford shoes. Should you be lucky enough to attend a white tie event, you will be expected to arrive in full dress.