The Unexpected History of the Tuxedo

From Native American Roots to Black Tie Events: The Unexpected History of the Tuxedo

Have you ever wondered about the origins of the tuxedo, that staple of formal wear? Its story is far more intriguing than you might imagine, weaving together Native American history, a rebellious fashion statement, and the rise of exclusive social clubs.

The Delaware Indians and the Wolf Clan

The journey begins with the Delaware Indians, who inhabited the Northeastern United States. This tribe was divided into three distinct subgroups, each identified by a specific animal totem:

• The Turkey
• The Turtle
• The Wolf

Members of the Wolf clan were known by the indigenous term p'tuksit, their word for the four-footed canine. As European settlers arrived in the 18th century and moved into the region once inhabited by the p'tuksit, they Anglicized the name to "tuxedo" and used it to christen a town in southeastern New York.

The Tuxedo Club and a Fashion Revolution

Fast forward to the late 1800s. A lavish resort, aptly named "The Tuxedo Club," was established in the New York town. At this time, a dress jacket was considered essential attire for nearly every occasion. However, tradition was about to be challenged.

Around the turn of the century, a young, audacious heir to a vast tobacco fortune dared to defy convention. Instead of the traditional dress jacket with tails, he sported a formal dinner jacket without tails. This bold move caused quite a stir, but his fashion statement quickly gained popularity.

The Birth of a Modern Icon

This new style of jacket became known as the "tuxedo," forever linking the town, the club, and the rebellious spirit of a young man with a penchant for breaking the rules. Today, the tuxedo remains a symbol of semi-formal elegance, though perhaps viewed with less enthusiasm by high school students facing prom season.

From its unexpected roots in Native American culture to its adoption as a symbol of modern sophistication, the story of the tuxedo is a testament to how fashion can evolve and reflect the ever-changing currents of history and society. It serves as a reminder that even the most formal of garments can have surprisingly informal beginnings.