Part 2- Tux Appeal: Trends In Tuxedos

by Mia Bolaris-Forget (Staff Writer NYCityWeddings)

Note to Self guys: It’s your wedding too….and you’re responsible for more than just showing up wearing a tux.

Your job (besides to say “I Do”) is to complement your bride, not only with your words (vows) but with what you’ll be wearing your special day.

While modern wedding attire suits every taste, type of occasion and personality, there are a few timeless tips you need to know to ensure you are well suited for the big day.

Number one: Remember, what you wear directly depends on the formality of the event and time of day. Generally speaking, semi-formal to formal affairs held late in the afternoon and into the evening call for a tuxedo, while “casual” and daytime affairs mandate lighter colored and more relaxed attire. Consider white or off-white colored tuxedos or lightweight dress pants, shirt, tie (optional) and blazer are also acceptable.

Black tie takes formality to a whole new level. This type of even generally takes place in the evening and mandates that even guests dress to the nines. With women in ball gowns and men in tuxedos, it’s most appropriate for you (the groom) to be vested in tails or a cutaway.

Experts recommend suspenders as a MUST. Since belts are a huge NO-NO for tuxedos and formalwear, you’ll need something to hold up your pants, and help keep your shirt neatly tucked, and they note that whether or not you are wearing a cummerbund, suspenders are a gentleman’s best option.

Speaking of cummerbund’s, most men are clueless as to it’s proper positioning. A bit of trivia for you. Originally, these “wide belts” were fashioned with pleats as a means for men to store money, theatre tickets or keys, so pleat openings should always be face up.

While it IS important that you (and your groomsmen) match the bride and her bridesmaids, professionals point out that, as the groom, you may choose to stand out with a unique ensemble as long as it coordinates well with your groomsmen’s attire and with the rest of the wedding party.

Experts further note that in addition to “protocol” you should consider YOUR shape, size and height (and the general “silhouette” of your groomsmen) before deciding on a style.

When choosing a shirt, focus on the collar. Men with rounded faces and short necks may feel uncomfortable in winged collars.

Pants should be sans cuffs. Tuxedo trousers have braiding on either side making it difficult and awkward to cuff. Make sure the break in the pants is minimal; otherwise the side stripe may get all bunched up and look sloppy.
Stepping out in style has traditionally meant shiny patent leather shoes, but a better rule of thumb is that dress shoes can be made of almost any material, as long as they are sleek and clean looking.

Jacket with longer lapels (collars), known as shawl lapels complement bigger, broader figures, while peaked or notch lapel help enhance narrower, slighter builds.

Tying the knot has more than just one meaning on your wedding day. In fact, if you do your homework, you’ll see there are many way to knot your tie, some more “sophisticated than others. If however you are not “in the loop” you may want to consider one that’s already been tied.

Renting your tux is more highly recommended than buying it, and you and experts suggest getting measured at least three months before your wedding. Groomsmen living out town, state or country should get their measurements taken locally then call you with all the information. Experts suggest YOU make all the necessary arrangements and have guys from out of the area arrive 2 to 3 days earlier for any last minute alterations.

Most rentals are ready for pick up at least a day or two before the wedding. Inspect all merchandise carefully to ensure there are no mistakes or defects. And don’t forget to try on your shoes for comfort and fit.

Remember, while each of your groomsmen is responsible for retuning his tux/suit after the wedding, and it’s generally the best man’s responsibility to return your tux/suit (along with his) a day or two after the wedding. Make sure he know and understands this, or you may be un-necessarily fined. Also keep in mind that while minor stains and “blemishes” are expected and “accounted” for (within the fee), severely damaged merchandise will require reimbursement….so, professionals stress being handling your tux, much like you’d handle your bride, with extreme care.



Next: Part 3 - Wed Set>>