Selecting the Perfect Tuxedo for Your Wedding

If you're like I was before my wedding then you're probably waiting until the last possible second to pick out your tuxedo. In fact, many men are intimidated by the process of selecting a tuxedo for their wedding. This is partly due to the importance of the event, as well as a unfamiliarity with the different parts and pieces that make up the tuxedo. Your tuxedo will elevate your wedding and add a touch of class so it's important that you take the time to pick out the perfect one. If you're have limited experience with picking tuxedos then here are a few tips on how to go about doing it:

What's the style of your wedding?
Before you even enter the shop, start by thinking about how formal your wedding will be. Various styles of weddings call for different level wear. For instance, the time, guest size, and location of your wedding will determine the type of clothing that you wear.

If your wedding is formal or ultra formal, then I recommend all groomsmen wearing identical tuxedos. In this modern society it's normal for the groom and groomsmen to wear a variety of different styles. If you're wanting to stick with tradition then order the same style, and with an ultraformal wedding I recommend a bowtie.

Sizing.

Sizing is critical to the look of a tuxedo. Be sure that you're picking a tuxedo shop that is reputable and takes the necessary time to give accurate measurements. As a general size guideline, you should have plenty of room when you button the jacket and the fabric should not pull and feel too snug.

Don't worry about your size. Every man, no matter whether you're short, tall, heavy, or skinny, looks elegant and classy in a tuxedo. The suit actually conceals a lot of flaws with your body, but it's important to express any concerns you may have to the tuxedo representative. For instance, if you're tall then you should be sure they know to make the trouser legs long enough, as well as a jacket with sleeves that will reach your wrist. If you're short and slim, like myself, then stay away from baggy tuxedo styles such as a double-breasted jacket. Keep it simple and be sure that your tuxedo is very form-fitting.

If you're heavy and short then I recommend choosing a vest to draw attention away from your waist and overall weight. The great news is that black tends to be a very slimming color, and capped off with a single-breasted jacket you'll be looking like a regular Frank Sinatra.

Pricing.

I'm sure you were waiting on this answer. Like any business, the prices vary significantly from one shop to the next, depending on the location and designer of the tuxedo. Often times, a tuxedo shop will charge extra if you're renting a vest and shoes separately. Through experience I've noticed that prices can range from $80 to $200 for a tuxedo rental. You may want to ask the representative if there are any late fees for returning the tuxedo back after the due date, and also see if there are any hidden fees for dry cleaning or tailoring the garment. It's also a wise idea for the groom to ask the tuxedo shop if there are any discounts for the groom's tuxedo if the rest of the groomsmen order from the same shop. With my wedding, my tuxedo rental was free because I had six other groomsmen ordering from the same shop. Be sure to ask for this because it will not be offered unless you say something.

What makes up a tuxedo?

I remember when I picked up my tuxedo it seemed like the different pieces were never ending. It's important to have an understanding of all parts of the tuxedo so you'll wear them properly. The basic components include the coat. Your tuxedo coat should be black. Prior to the evening, you can go with a mid-thigh morning coat. After the evening it's best to go with traditional length.

The shirt should be plain white, and it's up to you whether or not you want it to be pleated. If you're following tradition then do not deviate from white, otherwise you'll look as if you're going to a prom. Your shirt should have French cuffs, and the tuxedo shop should also supply you with cuff links to give a sophisticated, polished look. The collar of the shirt should be wing for a black tie, while a white tie should be spread only.

The tie should be a bow tie or a traditional tie. If you want a strictly formal wedding then do not deviate from the white or black color palate. Colored ties tend to drop the sophistication level of your wedding.

The vest should be a full vest, in the event that you want to take your coat off during the reception. Chances are, you will take your coat off because you'll quickly get hot during the ceremony. When you're picking out the vest then try your best to coordinate the vest color with the color of the bridal party gowns. Cummerbunds are fine, but the look of a vest, in my opinion, is much classier than a cummerbund.

Finally, your shoes should be patent and shined leather. The style of shoes varies, whether you go with the square toed or pointed. Pointed work best for the more formal weddings.