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Mysteries of vernacular: Tuxedo - Jessica Oreck

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How did tuxedo’s roots extend from Native American history to black tie evening wear? Jessica Oreck reveals what the Delaware Indians and formal fashion have in common.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Tuxedo, aman's evening dress for semi-formal occasions, was named for Tuxedo Park, N.Y., site of a country club where it first was worn in 1886. The name is an attractive subject for elaborate speculation.Tuxedo Park is a village in Orange County, New York, United States. The population was 623 at the 2010 census. The name is derived from a Native American word of the Lenape language, tucsedo, which is said to have more than one meaning.Starlight Tuxedo is a family owned and operated business that has operated in Bloomfield, NJ for over 50 years. It specializes in all your formal wear needs (specifically tuxedos).Men's fashion is a multi-billion dollar industry. Here, you can see a video about the Dolce & Gabbana Mens Winter 2014 collection. It is dedicated to Devotion. Absolute devotion to tailoring, devotion to cut, devotion to fabrics, and devotion to details. There is even some devotion to variations on the traditional tuxedo.

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Meet The Creators

  • Director Jessica Oreck

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