Formal options for a larger man.

[Jock Scot]

Another option, that I go for these days , for minor formal evening events like dressing for dinner(black tie) with friends , is the Black Barathea Silver Buttoned Argyll(BBSBA). I think that option which would not be everyone’s choice , with or without the waist coat, could well be the best option for the larger gentleman for anything but the most formal of formal events.

[DCampbell16B]

I would add to Jock Scot's suggestion and suggest useing a belt rather than a waistcoat. Simple, perfectly acceptable and fine for any but the most formal of black tie. And obviates the possibility of shirt showing under the waistcoat.

[OC Richard]

As a larger man myself, what I've found to be most flattering is the Argyll or cutaway style jacket.

The Prince Charlie coatee exposes the lower belly, not a good thing for me.

The lower-cut Evening waistcoat is more flattering than the higher 5-button waistcoat for me.

I know that in modern times kilt jackets are usually worn unbuttoned, but for me the most flattering look is to avoid having any bulk under the jacket (no waistcoat or belt) and buttoning the single button of a one-button Argyll/cutaway jacket.

Now some might say "but the Argyll isn't an Evening jacket" to which I reply that the evidence is otherwise, that the Argyll (in Evening jacket colours such as black, dark blue, dark green, claret, etc) and with silver buttons has always been just another Evening style.

True that, strictly speaking, the lapels should be done up in satin as seen below.