For the Groom

Everything You Need To Know About Renting A Tuxedo

DRESS CODE

“Men should at least know what type of occasion they are attending whether it is a formal or informal event. It is important to know the dress code whether it’s a black tie, white tie or casual,” says Joe Cefai of Cefai Formal Wear. “Some men might also want to match their partners dress so they would need to know what colour they would like to include in the tuxedo.”

TIMELINE

How long do you have until the wedding? You may think six weeks is far off, and keep postponing until the weekend before. Don’t be that guy. A few weeks in advance is usually enough but during wedding season, it might be wise to reserve a suit even up to three months in advance.

BUDGET

A standard tuxedo costs between €63 and €85 to rent – however, it may rise into the hundreds if you’re renting a designer outfit. It also depends how long you’re planning to hold on to it for.

DAMAGE POLICY

Not all establishments are the same when it comes to insuring their rental tuxes. Some are more lenient and understand that accidents happen, and will cover the costs of small rips or stains. Others will not be so forgiving. Inquire ahead of time so you can make an informed decision before you choose to jump into the pool fully suited up, you madman.

BUYING VS RENTING

Is it ever wise to buy a tux rather than rent it? “This depends on the type of work a person does. If someone wears it to several occasions throughout the year, it’s better if they buy their own. Meanwhile, if you only wear a tuxedo once a year, it’s probably best to rent it!” Mr Cefai says.

ANATOMY OF A TUX

The JACKET

A regular tuxedo jacket features satin lapels and a boutonniere hole. Cutaway jackets, which are short in front (usually above the belt line) and split in the back (featuring two long pieces of fabric, hence the term "tails") are more typically worn for morning weddings. You can choose between a single-, double- or triple-breasted jacket with peak or notch lapels, and with a regular or shawl collar. The most popular tux jacket is single-breasted with notch lapels. You can also opt for a double or triple-breasted jacket, notch lapels and a regular or a shawl collar. For a heavy-set man, Mr Cefai recommends a black tuxedo with a dark vest underneath preferably matching the suit. This option will allow the jacket to be unbuttoned at all times which helps flatter the look.

THE SHIRT

You can wear either a wing collar, turndown collar or a mandarin collar with a tuxedo. The traditional choice is the wing collar. It is typically coupled with a bow tie and cummerbund.

THE TRIMMINGS

A traditional tuxedo is worn with a bow tie. You can choose between a vest or the more traditional cummerbund, a pleated sash worn around the waist. If you opt for a cummerbund, make sure it matches the bow tie and that the pleats are be facing up and should match the bow tie.

THE TROUSERS

Perfectly-tailored trousers are a must and absolutely must not be cuffed. If they’re not exactly right, they should be worn with button-in suspenders. Formal trousers have a black satin stripe or braid along the outside seams and no belt loops.

THE SHOES

Formal shoes are simple (plain or capped toe) and shiny (made from shiny patent leather and freshly-polished).

COLOURS

A traditional tuxedo comes in black or white. However, grey, silver and ivory tuxedos are growing increasingly popular, as are tuxedos in more adventurous colours. It all depends on your personal style, your level of confidence, and the kind of wedding you are attending.

Image Credits

ASOS