Black and White: What You Should Know About Choosing Your Tux

by Mia Bolaris-Forget (Staff Writer NYCityWeddings)

When it comes to weddings, the focus and fuss seems to always be on the bride. But, guys don’t kid yourselves, that’s only because she’s likely making a “bigger deal” of it all than you. And, when it comes to the big day all eyes, lights and cameras will be on you too. And, more likely than not, you’ll want to look your best too.

And, here are a few helpful hints to help you find just the perfect tux for you.

1. Research Reputation: While you may want to save some money, you never want to compromise quality for cost. So, you’ll want to find a shop that’s reputable and reliable. Do this by asking for recommendations for guys that walked the aisle of love before you and look for a shop that offers a vast variety of styles and is willing to work with you, including showing you several styles before expecting you to make a final decision. Start by taking note of the overall vibe of the place you are considering, how busy it is, and how they are working with other grooms/couples in the store.

2. Location, Location, Location: Keep in mind that some of your family and friends may no longer be local. With that in mind, experts emphasize the importance of choosing a shop with various locations. You can even have your groomsmen pick up their tux in their local city, but drop it off at the shop near you (or have you do it). Plus, it’s a great way to potentially get a discount, depending, of course, on the size of the wedding party, since you’ll all be renting from the same store.

3. Decode The Dress Code: Ask your bride to be, or, better yet, the professionals about choosing a style that works best for your type of event. Remember, styles can vary not only by the formality of the event, but also based on time of day and time of year; as well as by your own personal style and preferences.

4. Procure a Professional: While you may have “impeccable” taste, experts suggest getting a second opinion, preferably from a seasoned and reputable professional. After all they are, or should be in the business of making you look good, and that includes not only guiding you in the right direction, but also measuring you and properly fitting you.

5. Go For A “Test Drive”: Try on your tux and wear it for a while to see how comfortable it is. Test it by bobbing around in the dressing room (behind closed and locked doors and without working up too much of a sweat), keeping in mind that you’ll be wearing this outfit for about 8 to 10 hours on your wedding day. And, while a little “discomfort” should be expected, you also need to feel at ease in your ensemble.

6. Opt For Tradition Rather Than Trend: Sure a powder blue zuit suit may “compliment” your betrothed’s retro theme, but is it something you’ll proudly look back on once the “drama” of the day is over? Still, you should have fun with your attire and it should compliment you personality, just make sure it’s a decision you can live with for the rest of your life.

7. Get Into A “The More The Merrier” Mentality: Don’t leave out dad or other members of your wedding party when making such important decisions. In fact, experts suggest they should all be part of the tux choosing process, not only to ensure you can all agree but also to ensure everyone is happy with the final outcome. Sure it’s YOUR day, but you do want EVERYONE to enjoy it.

8. Time And Pace Yourself: Most men, probably because of the anticipated “simplicity” of choosing a tux, tend to put it off until the last possible moment. In fact, its highly unlikely you’ll catch you and the guys arranging for a Saturday afternoon tea and brunch following a morning of gown hunting and shopping. Still, there’s more to choosing a tux than you think, including getting it fitted and tailored; and you’ll want to have placed the order at least three months in advance. Try to schedule a time when all the guys can get together and don’t hold off for those that can’t. Instead ask the “missing links” for their exact measurements (including inseam, sleeve length, etc, which they can obtain from a local tailor) so you can order for them or arrange for them to be at the shop of your choice on another specific day.

9. Read The Fine Print And Between The Lines: Make sure you get the specifics on all the specifics including deposits, alteration fees, and return deadlines. Making sure you have and understand this crucial information ahead of time can help prevent potential problems and can help you keep track of your obligations and responsibilities, and inform and remind you wedding party of theirs. And, because its likely you’ll be busier and more “nervous” than the rest of the guys, you may want to ask your dad or your best man to help you keep track of all your “must dos”.

10. Take A Stand And Make Sure You Stand Out In A Crowd: Sure you want to “blend in” with the rest of the guys, but you’re also the guest of honor and you WANT to be in the limelight. Yet, when we think of accessorizing, most of us think of the bridesmaids and the beautiful bride. But, experts suggest that grooms too need to find some special details to make sure they stand out among the men and the guests. Consider a unique vest, tie, cummerbund, cuffs or distinctive boutonnière that will separate you from the rest. Just, make sure not to go over the top, remember, you may be “contemporary”, but you still want to keep it “classy”.