Eco Tuxedo

I recently received a letter from reader Beau:

Hey DB,

I'm definitely in need of some help here in California! Here's what's up: I really wasn't planning on going to my prom this year... that is until one of my good friends came out of nowhere and asked if I'd go with her as pals. Anyway, now I'm sort of freaking out about what the hell to wear in terms of a non-wool tux. I think I can handle the bow-tie (thanks for that post) and non-leather shoes. So maybe you could help me out in finding a fashionable, sustainable, vegan tux, or a good company that makes them?

Thank you for all that you do- you're such an inspiration and The Discerning Brute is such a valuable resource.

Beau Broughton

Hey Beau,

Finding a non-wool, cruelty-free tuxedo or suit for a prom or a wedding is definitely a challenge. And finding an eco-friendly and cruelty free tux is next to impossible. If you've got money, I'd suggest having a tux custom tailored from organic cotton, or any other eco-friendly fabric.

There are a few expensive designer options. The first Versace jacket below isn't a tux, per se, but you can dress it up with a bow tie:

Eco-Vegan Bamboo Sportcoat from Versace. $895 at Nordstrom:

This tuxdo is another really pricey option, but it's green and cruelty free. Eco Vegan Bamboo/Cotton Velvet Tux from Peak Lapel. $1,661.95 at Sierra Trading Post (includes bamboo/cotton pants):

A more affordable option is Rawganique's organic, hemp, fair-trade 'Wedding Jacket' with matching slacks. $437 at Rawganique.com

There are even more affordable options from After Six, with a 100% poly (not as eco-friendly, but cruelty-free) Tux in white, bone, ivory, and black.