How Do You Wear a Cummerbund?

Knowing how to wear a cummerbund properly can take your formal look to the next level. It delivers a traditional spin on modern formal arrangements. It allows you to add an extra level of detail to your wardrobe. Let's look at how to wear this accessory, plus its history and purpose.

What Is a Cummerbund?

A cummerbund is a wide fabric belt worn around the waist with a tuxedo or formal suit. It sits over the trouser waistband, creating a polished, elegant look. The pleats should always face up, a tradition that once helped catch crumbs or hold small items like tickets.

Most cummerbunds are made from silk, satin, or velvet. There are black cummerbunds and even navy or burgundy ones. A cummerbund is a stylish alternative to a waistcoat, helping keep your shirt neatly tucked. Wearing one the right way adds a layer of sophistication to your black-tie outfit.

If you want to upgrade your style, take inspiration from Italian gentlemen or movie stars like Clark Gable. Pair your tie and pocket square with other accessories for a polished look. Add a pair of swanky cufflinks, a sleek tie bar, or a unique lapel pin for extra style. Complete the look with a non-iron shirt for a crisp, clean finish.

How to Wear a Cummerbund

There are different ways of fastening a cummerbund: some have a clip, and others require tying up. As with all men's accessories, there's a right and a wrong way to wear a cummerbund. 

Contrary to popular belief, you should wear cummerbunds with the pleats facing upwards. 

Wearing a cummerbund with the pleats facing downwards is considered incorrect etiquette. 

To wear a cummerbund: 

1. Wrap the cummerbund around your waist where your shirt meets your trousers.

2. Make sure the pleats face upward for a classic and proper look.

3. Adjust the fit so it sits snugly but comfortably around your waist.

4. Secure the clip or fastener at the back to keep it in place.

5. Smooth out any wrinkles and ensure it covers your trousers' waistband.

Purpose of Cummerbunds

Besides their aesthetic appeal, cummerbunds serve a brilliant purpose integral to men's fashion. They cover where your shirt is tucked into your trousers, masking any unsightly bunching. In other words, they cover the "working parts" of your attire. Similarly, buttons have satin covers, and cufflinks have opulent encryptions. Covering the hard work that other areas of your suit are performing is essential.

When to Wear a Cummerbund

A cummerbund is a formal accessory best suited for black-tie events such as weddings, galas, award ceremonies, and formal dinners. You wear a cummerbund with a tuxedo or formal suit. It adds a polished and elegant touch to the tuxedo, creating a smooth transition between the shirt and trousers.

Wear a cummerbund whenever you want to achieve a classic, refined look. It's a great alternative to a waistcoat, especially in warmer weather, as it keeps your outfit formal without adding extra layers. Avoid wearing it in semi-formal or casual settings, as it is strictly meant for formal attire.

Why Do People Wear Cummerbunds?

In the most simple terms, a cummerbund will make your suit look more elegant. Here are more benefits of wearing cummerbunds: 

They Are Slimming

Cummerbunds have a slimming effect because they smooth your tummy area.

They Catch Crumbs

This little fact is so well known that cummerbunds are often called crumb catchers. The upward-facing pleats mean they'll catch your crumbs, so you don't have to dry-clean your suit!

They Are Cooler Than Waistcoats

The British military learned this the hard way. Cummerbunds are a much more fantastic alternative to waistcoats. They still give you a complete look, covering your hip area without adding degrees.

They're Good Ticket Holders

This isn't a joke. When aristocrats first adopted cummerbunds, they held tickets for symphonies and operas. You'll likely use them today to hold your credit card or event pass. 

The Do's and Don'ts of Wearing a Cummerbund

If you want to look elegant and stylish, there are a few key rules. Consider what you should and should not do when wearing a cummerbund.

Do’s of Wearing a Cummerbund

Wearing a cummerbund correctly upgrades your black-tie look and keeps your outfit sharp and polished. Follow these key rules to get it right.

• Wear it with a bow tie: A cummerbund pairs best with a tuxedo and bow tie, keeping your black-tie look clean and elegant.

• Make sure the pleats face up: This traditional way to wear a cummerbund adds to the classic style.

• Wear it at your natural waist: It should cover the waistband of your trousers for a polished look.

• Pair it with suspenders if needed: Suspenders go under the cummerbund and help keep your trousers in place.

• Choose a colour that matches your bow tie: Black is the most traditional colour, but coloured cummerbunds should coordinate with your tie.

Don'ts of Wearing a Cummerbund

A cummerbund should add style and sophistication, not create bulk or clash with other accessories. Avoid these common mistakes.

• Don't wear it with a vest: A vest covers the cummerbund, making it unnecessary. Choose one or the other.

• Don't wear it with a belt: A cummerbund should sit flat against your waist, and a belt will create bulk underneath.

• Don't wear it with a necktie: A necktie extends too far down, clashing with the cummerbund and making it look awkward.

• Don't wear it too high or too low: It should sit just above your trouser waistband, not on your stomach or hips.

• Don't let it wrinkle or bunch up: A cummerbund should be smooth and fitted for a sleek, elegant look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct way to wear a cummerbund?

Wear a cummerbund around your waist for a polished black-tie look, with the pleats facing up. The cummerbund should cover the waistband of your trousers.

What are the rules for cummerbunds?

A cummerbund should match your bow tie and sit at your natural waist. You should always wear them with the pleats facing up for a formal appearance.

Do cummerbund pleats go up or down?

Cummerbund pleats should always face up, traditionally to catch crumbs and hold theatre tickets.

What is the point of a cummerbund?

A cummerbund creates a smooth transition between your shirt and trousers, hides the waistband, and adds elegance to formal black-tie attire.