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which way do the pleats on a cummerbund go

by Valentine Emard Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The cummerbund is worn around the waist, placed on top of a shirt and pants. It does not attach to the clothing. Before you put on your cummerbund, always turn it so the pleats are facing up. (Remember, you won't catch any crumbs if the pleats are down.)

Full Answer

Do cummerbunds have downward facing pleats?

Downward facing pleats are actually incorrect. We’ll get to why in a second. Also, because cummerbunds are waist coverings, they should be worn at the natural waist. This means that the trousers should be worn around the level of the navel, and half the cummerbund should cover the shirt, and the other half the trousers.

How do you put a cummerbund on?

Fasten the cummerbund using the buckle at the back. Hold the cummerbund firmly around your waist and strap it in place using the belt-like buckle in the back. Simply guide the long strap on the left side under the buckle’s lower opening. Then, pull it up and out through the other end. [3]

Can I wear a waistcoat instead of a cummerbund?

In lieu of a cummerbund, you may wear either a waistcoat or, if you’re going for a more contemporary look, no waist covering at all. If you opt to omit a waist covering, ensure that your tuxedo trousers’ waist is high enough to avoid any shirt showing underneath the button. Cummerbund Pleats: Up Or Down? Most (but not all) cummerbunds have pleats.

What is the purpose of a cummerbund under a tuxedo?

When wearing a tuxedo, an immaculate presentation and attention to detail are of the utmost importance. A cummerbund acts as a waist covering, preventing your shirt from peeking out below the buttoning point of your jacket. This means that the only part of the shirt visible is above your chest,...

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Which direction does a Cumberbund go?

Cummerbunds are designed with rows of pleats that should be worn facing upwards. Cummerbunds should be worn at your natural waist line. This means your trousers should be worn around the level of your navel and half of your cummerbund should be covering your shirt.

How do you wear a Cumberbund Pleat?

0:020:33How to Put on a Cummerbund - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipA cummerbund should fit firmly around the waist covering the pant waistband with the pleats facingMoreA cummerbund should fit firmly around the waist covering the pant waistband with the pleats facing out and up to adjust the size place the cummerbund at your waist. And attach the buckle on the back.

What is the point of a cummerbund?

The primary purpose of the tuxedo cummerbund is the preserve the immaculate presentation expected when wearing formal attire. Serving as a waist covering, a tuxedo cummerbund prevents your shirt from showing below the buttoning point of your jacket, maintaining a much neater appearance.

How do you tie a Cumberband?

0:151:05Proper Way to Wear a Cumberbund : Men's Fashion Tips - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere's how to wear it you take the cummerbund. And you wear it right at your waist it's reallyMoreHere's how to wear it you take the cummerbund. And you wear it right at your waist it's really simple but what side goes up and what goes down that's. The question all right simple the pleats go up.

Does James Bond wear a cummerbund?

Though the cummerbund is a well-known part of black tie, Bond has only worn a cummerbund on a handful of occasions. Traditionally, one isn't wearing a cummerbund because he's wearing a waistcoat or a double-breasted dinner jacket, but those situations do not make up the rest of Bond's black tie outfits.

Are cummerbunds slimming?

The benefits of wearing cummerbunds are endless but in the most simple terms; they'll make your suit look more elegant. Cummerbunds have a slimming effect because they cover the area where some men tend to have a bulge. They'll smooth your tummy out with an understated quality.

Are cummerbunds out of style?

Cummerbunds are rapidly approaching “old-fashioned” status, and we won't go out of our way to recommend you wear one. But if you must wear one, do it only with a tuxedo, and match the material of your cummerbund with the material of your lapels (sorry, hot pink cummerbunds).

Is it necessary to wear a cummerbund with a tuxedo?

A tuxedo with cummerbund makes the most sense if you will be attending a formal event when the temperatures are higher, making a vest more uncomfortable. A cummerbund allows for more airflow, and limits the amount of fabric on your body.

Can I wear a tuxedo without a cummerbund?

Generally, you wear a cummerbund along with a tuxedo to black tie events. If you choose not to wear a cummerbund, you can wear a formal waistcoat (aka a vest) instead. A waistcoat can provide a little more warmth in cooler temperatures, and sometimes it coordinates better if your jacket has peaked lapels.

Why is it called a Cumberbund?

Etymology. The word cummerbund is the Anglicized form of Hindustani kamarband (Hindustani: कमरबंद; کمربند), which is in turn from Persian (Persian: کمربند, romanized: kamarband). It entered English vocabulary in 1616 from India. It is a combination of the words kamar meaning 'waist' and band meaning 'strap' or 'lacing' ...

Does bow tie have to match cummerbund?

In the event that you choose to wear a cummerbund in such a color or pattern, do not wear a matching bow tie, but rather the standard black one.

Where should a Cumberbund sit?

Today a proper cummerbund should be pleated and sit directly on top of the waistband of your trouser with an equal amount of space either side – it should not sit over it, nor beneath it.

Do people still wear cummerbunds?

Generally, you wear a cummerbund along with a tuxedo to black tie events. If you choose not to wear a cummerbund, you can wear a formal waistcoat (aka a vest) instead. A waistcoat can provide a little more warmth in cooler temperatures, and sometimes it coordinates better if your jacket has peaked lapels.

Do you wear suspenders with a cummerbund?

Wear suspenders underneath your cummerbund to create a truly 007 look. If you're going to wear both at the same time, always ensure your suspenders are underneath. Most cummerbunds are designed with rows of pleats that should be worn facing upwards.

Should I wear a Cumberbund with a tuxedo?

A tuxedo with cummerbund makes the most sense if you will be attending a formal event when the temperatures are higher, making a vest more uncomfortable. A cummerbund allows for more airflow, and limits the amount of fabric on your body.

Does bow tie have to match cummerbund?

Wearing a cummerbund too high or too low can ruin the aesthetic effect. Lastly, and possibly this goes without saying, a cummerbund should always be paired with a bow tie, preferably one in a matching fabric.

How to make a cummerbund lining?

To make the lining, cut a piece of fabric that is 1/2 inch larger than the cummerbund on all sides. Fold the 1/2 inch seam allowance in, so that the back sides are together and press. Pin the back sides of the cummerbund and lining together and stitch around the edges, very close to the fold.

How to finish a cummerbund?

Finish the cummerbund by sewing a row of hook and eye closures on each end of the cummerbund. These should be placed 1/2 inch apart. A second, or even third, row of closures can be sewn on, so the cummerbund can be adjusted for fit.

What is a cummerbund?

British military officers adopted the use of cummerbunds while in colonial India. The style spread as non-military people adopted the new look. In Hindi, cummerbund means to hold close to the waist. Cummerbunds are typically part of a black tie ensemble, worn during formal occasions. The pleated cummerbund serves double-duty, not only as a substitute for a belt, but also as a place to keep ticket stubs or other small pieces objects.

How to make a pleated hat?

Using the straight edge, double check both ends and press in place. Fold the fabric again, this time so the front sides are together. For this part of the pleat, the measurement is 1/2 inch. Press again. Continue this pattern until all the fabric is pleated.

How to measure for a cummerbund?

This is the length of fabric needed to make the cummerbund. To determine the width of the cummerbund, multiply the desired width by 2.5. This gives the amount of fabric sufficient for pleats.

Should you wear pleats up or down?

There has long been debate as to whether to wear the pleats up or down when wearing a pleated cummerbund. Pleats should face up -- otherwise they cannot be used to hold anything.

What is a cummerbund?

So, what exactly is a cummerbund? It’s a pleated waist sash worn with single-breasted tuxedo jackets. Traditionally black, they are also available in other colors, most notably burgundy, bottle green, rich gold, and even white. They are widest around the front and were adopted as a warm-weather alternative to the black tie waistcoat.

What is a cummerbund fringe?

Colloquially, a cummerbund was known as a “crumb-catcher,” as upward-facing pleats offered the wearer this fringe benefit.

What is a kamarband?

Note that in modern Persian, the word kamarband refers to anything belt-like. This is most often an actual belt, but can also refer to a safety belt or a road that encircles a city, such as Washington D.C.’s Beltway.

Where are Turnbull and Asser made?

Turnbull & Asser is one of the few heritage Jermyn Street brands that continues to retail products that are made in England. Indeed, their cummerbunds come from Gloucester, which is why they’re at a premium.

Is it necessary to wear a cummerbund?

When & How To Wear A Cummerbund. Wearing a cummerbund isn’t obligatory, but if you’re going to wear a tuxedo and forgo the waistcoat , we strongly encourage you to wear a cummerbund. This is particularly true in warm weather, when even a backless waistcoat may be impractical.

Is the cummerbund still part of the black tie?

However, we believe that it’s still an integral part of the black tie dress code.

Is "cumberbun" a Persian word?

There is a lot of confusion as to the spelling of this word. This is understandable as it’s an Anglicized Persian word, but make no mistake, it’s spelled “cummerbund,” not “cumberbund,” or “cummerbun.”

Do the pleats on a cummerbund go up or down?

The cummerbund is worn around the waist, placed on top of a shirt and pants. ... Before you put on your cummerbund, always turn it so the pleats are facing up. (Remember, you won't catch any crumbs if the pleats are down.) The cummerbund then secures in the back.

What's the point of a Cumberbund?

The primary purpose of the tuxedo cummerbund is the preserve the immaculate presentation expected when wearing formal attire. Serving as a waist covering, a tuxedo cummerbund prevents your shirt from showing below the buttoning point of your jacket, maintaining a much neater appearance.

Does James Bond wear a cummerbund?

Bond wears both a cummerbund and braces in Licence to Kill and Skyfall. Though belts and cummerbunds serve do different tasks, a belt should not be worn under a cummerbund since it will show as a bump underneath.

What color should a cummerbund be?

Traditionally, cummerbunds are black and thus match the bow tie, jacket, and trousers all at once. As time has gone on, it has become more common to inject other colors into the black tie ensemble, so it's totally appropriate to wear a cummerbund in a deep tone such as burgundy, plum, bottle green, or dark blue.

How to wear a cummerbund?

This may seem like a no-brainer, but there actually is a right way and a wrong way. Cummerbunds are meant to be worn with the pleats facing upward. Downward facing pleats are actually incorrect. We’ll get to why in a second. Also, because cummerbunds are waist coverings, they should be worn at the natural waist. This means that the trousers should be worn around the level of the navel, and half the cummerbund should cover the shirt, and the other half the trousers. Wearing a cummerbund too high or too low can ruin the aesthetic effect. Lastly, and possibly this goes without saying, a cummerbund should always be paired with a bow tie, preferably one in a matching fabric.

Why is the cummerbund important?

The modern purpose of the cummerbund is to cover the waist. This is an important practice for a number of reasons. Black Tie attire is so timeless due to the staying power of the principles on which it is founded. One of these guiding principles is that the working parts of one’s ensemble must be covered or dressed.

Where did the Cummerbund originate?

Origins. The cummerbund began in India around 1850, not as formal wear necessarily, but as dining wear for British military personnel stationed there. The folks from India often wore sashes around their waist called kamarbands, kamar meaning ‘waist.’.

Do black tie vests need a cummerbund?

Just like vests, cummerbunds come in a wide variety of both colors and styles.

Can you wear a cummerbund with a bow tie?

Wearing a cummerbund too high or too low can ruin the aesthetic effect. Lastly, and possibly this goes without saying, a cummerbund should always be paired with a bow tie, preferably one in a matching fabric. 5.) The Many Benefits. Heather Grey Twilight Tuxedo.

Is "cummerbund" correct spelling?

1.) The Correct Spelling. The correct spelling is actually “Cummerbund” not “Cumberbund. While Merriam-Webster Dictionary does list “Cumberbund” as an alternate spelling, this is purely because of how often it is misspelled and pronounced. Such is the way that language develops. But for now, and originally, “ Cummerbund ” is the correct spelling.

Is the cummerbund a formal tuxedo?

Among formal tuxedo accessories, the cummerbund isn’t really the most popular. In fact, if there is just one poorly understood and under appreciated formal accessory in today’s formal climate, it’s the cummerbund. Its popularity tends to wax and wane like the moon, but the essential function it provides to a proper Black Tie ensemble is steadfast.

Do the pleats on a cummerbund go up or down?

The cummerbund is worn around the waist, placed on top of a shirt and pants. ... Before you put on your cummerbund, always turn it so the pleats are facing up. (Remember, you won't catch any crumbs if the pleats are down.) The cummerbund then secures in the back.

What's the point of a Cumberbund?

The primary purpose of the tuxedo cummerbund is the preserve the immaculate presentation expected when wearing formal attire. Serving as a waist covering, a tuxedo cummerbund prevents your shirt from showing below the buttoning point of your jacket, maintaining a much neater appearance.

Does James Bond wear a cummerbund?

Bond wears both a cummerbund and braces in Licence to Kill and Skyfall. Though belts and cummerbunds serve do different tasks, a belt should not be worn under a cummerbund since it will show as a bump underneath.

What color should a cummerbund be?

Traditionally, cummerbunds are black and thus match the bow tie, jacket, and trousers all at once. As time has gone on, it has become more common to inject other colors into the black tie ensemble, so it's totally appropriate to wear a cummerbund in a deep tone such as burgundy, plum, bottle green, or dark blue.

Do you wear a belt under a cummerbund?

You don't typically wear a belt under your cummerbund, so if you need some extra help keeping your pants in place, clip on a pair of suspenders before you put on your cummerbund and jacket. People won't be able to see the suspenders, but you should still wear a black or white pair just in case your jacket slips.

Why is it called a cummerbund?

Etymology. The word cummerbund is the Anglicized form of Hindustani kamarband (Hindustani: कमरबंद; کمربند), which is inturn from Persian (Persian: کمربند‎, romanized: kamarband). ... It is a combination of the words kamar meaning 'waist' and band meaning 'strap' or 'lacing'.

Do you wear a Cumberbund with a vest?

A three-piece suit looks fantastic with a vest— that's something a cummerbund shouldn't be worn with. Vests also tend to work better with long ties than cummerbunds do. Vests are a great way to bring some personality to a suit or tuxedo.

Can you wear a tux without a vest or cummerbund?

Wear a cummerbund or vest. Unless you're wearing a double-breasted jacket that you keep buttoned at all times, you'll likely expose your shirt. Your tux will look incomplete if you're not wearing a cummerbund or vest.

How wide should a cummerbund be?

Measure from one side across the front of the waist to the other. Cut a rectangle shape in the material, according to measurement. The width should be 5 inches.

Can you wear a cummerbund with a normal suit?

Cummerbunds are a match made in heaven with a tuxedo but they should never be worn with a regular suit. Wearing a waistcoat will defeat the purpose of wearing a cummerbund. They're both accessories that cover your waist area so there's only room for one.

Can you wear a cummerbund with a waistcoat?

Whether wearing a tuxedo with cummerbund or a tuxedo with vest, the primary purpose of both accessories is to keep the tuxedo waistband hidden from view. Because both the cummerbund and vest serve a similar purpose, they can in most cases be interchangeable.

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The Correct Spelling

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The correct spelling is actually “Cummerbund” not “Cumberbund. While Merriam-Webster Dictionary does list “Cumberbund” as an alternate spelling, this is purely because of how often it is misspelled and pronounced. Such is the way that language develops. But for now, and originally, “Cummerbund” is the correct spell…
See more on mytuxedocatalog.com

Origins

  • The cummerbund began in India around 1850, not as formal wear necessarily, but as dining wear for British military personnel stationed there. The folks from India often wore sashes around their waist called kamarbands, kamar meaning ‘waist.’ For formal dinners, the British army customarily wore waistcoats (vests) under their jackets. But in no small part due to the heat in India, the Briti…
See more on mytuxedocatalog.com

The Purpose

  • The modern purpose of the cummerbund is to cover the waist. This is an important practice for a number of reasons. Black Tie attire is so timeless due to the staying power of the principles on which it is founded. One of these guiding principles is that the working parts of one’s ensemble must be covered or dressed. Buttons have satin facing. Shirt buttons are replaced by studs and …
See more on mytuxedocatalog.com

How to Wear One

  • This may seem like a no-brainer, but there actually is a right way and a wrong way. Cummerbunds are meant to be worn with the pleats facing upward. Downward facing pleats are actually incorrect. We’ll get to why in a second. Also, because cummerbunds are waist coverings, they should be worn at the natural waist. This means that the trousers should ...
See more on mytuxedocatalog.com

The Many Benefits

  • I feel that if more people were aware of the benefits a cummerbund offers, more people would wear one. So here I’m just going to list them out. 1.) Crumb Catchers –As the British Military first learned, the upward facing pleats served as excellent crumb catchers. In fact, that is still a nickname for the accessory even today. 2.) Ticket Holders –When the aristocracy adopted cum…
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Vertical Cummerbunds

  • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hopefully this has cleared up some of the fog around these formerly enigmatic accessories. We feel that cummerbunds help promote formal wear, and help create a ceremonial divide between suits and tuxedos. As useful and accommodating as they are, hopefully this is a trend we see pick up, as our culture moves more toward dressing formally aga…
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1.How to Wear a Cummerbund: 11 Steps (with Pictures)

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21 hours ago Before you put on your cummerbund, always turn it so the pleats are facing up. (Remember, you won't catch any crumbs if the pleats are down.) The cummerbund then secures in the back. …

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2 hours ago Before you put on your cummerbund, always turn it so the pleats are facing up. (Remember, you won't catch any crumbs if the pleats are down.) The cummerbund then secures in the back. …

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10 hours ago Expert Answers: Cummerbunds are designed with rows of pleats that should be worn facing upwards. Cummerbunds should be worn at your natural waist line. This means your trousers

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17 hours ago Which way does a cummerbund go? Cummerbunds are meant to be worn with the pleats facing upward. Downward facing pleats are actually incorrect. We'll get to why in a second. …

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