Groom and Groomsmen's Wedding Attire
If you don't already own a
tuxedo and you'll need one for either your wedding or for that of a friend or family member, you might be considering buying one. Buying a tuxedo can be an important and useful investment depending on how often you'll be attending formal or semiSuits'>Men's Suits or read on to find out if renting or buying is best for you.
* '''Renting'''
** If you don't have at least
cuff links, which can reduce your costs. This is ideal for weddings since you may be asked by the bride to wear certain colors to match her or the bridesmaids and you might not want to wear those colors again. Or, you might need a very formal tux that simply won't work for any other occasions.
** Love to be in style and on the edge of fashion? Styles come and go, so you might as well rent. You can wear the newest threads each time without spending an arm and a leg for your wardrobe. However, you must be sure to rent far in advance since rental shops don't carry many of these trendy tuxes.
** No dry cleaning to worry about and no maintenance throughout the year.
* '''Buying'''
** Buying a tux in a classic shape and color will last you a lifetime. As trends change, you can simply update your accessories to make it look newer. However, do remember that over time, people's bodies change. How many times have you seen the movie where the dad goes to try on his old tux and it bursts when he tries it on? That really happens. Ten years down the road, you too may be confronted with a similar situation.
** When buying a tux, you have many more options with fabrics, colors, and cut.
** With a good shop, you'll have better chances of getting special attention, last-minute fittings, and the advantage of seeing, feeling, and wearing what you want to buy before you make the investment.
** If cost is a concern but you feel that buying a tux is really what you want, consider buying a low-priced "tuxedo in a box", which include everything from the tux to the
cummerbund.
Tuxedo and Suit Types
The first and easiest thing to know when it comes to tuxedos is that you want to choose the right color. Black, dark grey, and navy blue are the preferred colors since they can be worn for formal evening or daytime affairs. Unlike tan, white, light grey, or light-colored summer tuxes, the traditional black tux can transcend seasons. It is recommended though that you purchase a lightweight black tux. A breathable fabric makes it easier to dance all night or to wear the tux during warmer months or in hotter climates.
As you can see below, there are only a few basic types of tuxedo styles from which to choose. The style you buy should be in sync with the formality of the wedding.
Fit Guide
If you are...
* '''Short and stocky''' button jackets. Get the longest jacket available so that the top button hits around your waist. It will help create a slimmer look and lengthen your body. Beware of prints, bright colors, and mismatched vests and ties. You need dark, solid, continuous color to create a longer line that extends all the way down to your feet. When it comes to
trousers, keep them long enough to cover the foot without breaking. Instead, the pants should angle backward to create a smooth, not sloppy looking line. Keep the pleats to a minimum, if any.
* '''Short and thin''' trousers'>pleated and they should break slightly over the foot creating a long line down the back of the leg. This will create the illusion of being a little bit taller.
* '''Tall and bulky''' collars'>laydown collars will look great on you, but avoid ties that are too thin. They'll look fragile compared to a large torso. Be very careful about testing the sleeve length and the comfort in the armpits.
* '''Tall and slim''' jackets'>four button jackets as well. Use color or patterns on vests and ties at your whim (albeit tastefully).
Choosing a Tuxedo Shop
* Ask around for referrals to a good tuxedo shop that is close to where the wedding will take place.
* It should be a shop that does its own alterations and that has an on-site tailor available. The shop should also have its own stock in store. That means you can get what you need when you want it.
* The items you see in the store should be in the style that you like. If there is plenty of versatility, you'll be able to get just what you want.
* Check on the rental pick up and return policies too. If the time frame for pick up and drop off is very narrow and only allows a mere 24 hour rental period, consider going elsewhere. You should be allowed up to five days to return a tuxedo rental. Some national chains will also allow you to pick up and drop off a tux at different locations.
* If you have people coming in from out of town that will need to rent a tux, make sure that the store will be able to accommodate these people. If you are using a local store rather than a national chain, have your wedding party send you their measurements (as taken by a tailor) at least two months in advance. This information can be used to rent their tuxes without them having to be physically in the shop.
* Finally, if the shop seems like it is helpful and accommodating, making you feel comfortable about doing business with them, then you know that you have found the right shop with which to do your business.
Style Suggestions and Trends
Shirt Options
Necessary Accessories
