There is a big misconception that you save money when you rent a tuxedo, rather than buy one.  Many think it’s expensive, but you can buy a brand name tuxedo for about what it costs to rent.  And, if purchased wisely, your tuxedo, will never go out of style.  Here are some pointers to remember before purchasing a tuxedo.

Colors and Fabrics:  Stick with black or dark shades of midnight blue.  These are classy colors that will be in style any season.  Although light-colored or off-white dinner jackets are fine for summer months or in warm climates, you will get the most use out of a black or midnight blue tuxedo, and it won’t look as dirty after each use.   In terms of fabric choice, ehow.com’s article, “How to Buy a Tuxedo,” ” suggests lightweight fabrics.  “Since most formal affairs are held indoors, you’ll probably wear your suit in relatively comfortable temperatures.  And because you’re likely to be dancing, lightweight fabrics will help keep you cool.”

Jackets:  As with suit jackets, tuxedos jackets come in a variety of styles: coat tails; single- or double-breasted; shawl, peak or notch lapels; one, two or no vents; and anywhere from one to four buttons.  First choose a tuxedo silhouette that suits your purposes.  While, coat tails are the most formal of tuxedos and should be saved for truly special occasions, single- and double-breasted dinner jackets are appropriate for any formal occasion.   However, according to the Knot’s article, “Grooms: Find the Most Flattering Tuxedo Styles for Your Wedding,” tall, husky or muscular men should avoid double-breasted jackets . . . which add volume.”

Then choose a lapel that flatters your face and build.  Peak lapels are the most traditional, but the Knot advises, “Shawl lapels de-emphasize a round face; and are best for those who want to appear slimmer.” Notched lapels, considered the least formal lapel style, have a triangular indention where the lapel joins the collar.  Next, decide whether you prefer one, two, or no vents.  Although, jackets without vents can make you look slimmer, vents also add room in your jacket and that equals comfort.

Finally, base the number of jacket buttons on your stature.   For example, the Knot says that if you are short and slim opt for a two- or three-button jacket to help elongate the body without looking too large on your frame.  Whatever style you choose, make sure your buttoned jacket fits comfortably at the neck and shoulders whether you are standing or sitting.

Trousers:  Now choose your trousers: one stripe, two stripes, flat front or pleated front. The dinner jacket you choose will dictate your trousers style.  Coat tails require trousers that have two stripes, while all other jackets should be accompanied by pants with a single stripe.  If you are wearing coat tails or a cummerbund, make sure to buy trousers with a waist high enough to be completely covered by the coat tails or cummerbund. Try flat front trousers for a modern fit that won’t add bulk to your midsection.  Your trousers should button comfortably and feel good when you sit. Your hem should break just over your shoe tops 1/3 of your shoes.

No matter what style you choose make sure that your tuxedo is properly tailored. Remember that you will be wearing this tuxedo for many hours so you want to be comfortable.  Your tuxedo should not be too tight or too loose.

SYMS has a wide variety of reasonably-priced elegant tuxedos, and we offer on-site expert tailoring. Some of our selection includes: a black single-breasted tuxedo with satin notched lapels and flat front trousers by Jones New York — retail price $350.00, SYMS price $199.00; a black-single breasted modern fit tuxedo with notched lapels and flat front slacks by Perry Ellis — retail price $275.00, SYMS price $159.00; and a black single-breasted tuxedo with satin notched lapels and pleated pants by Emanuel — retail price $275.00, SYMS price $159.00.

Please look for Part 4 of this blog, Accessorizing Your Tuxedo.  To read more about finding the right tuxedo for you check out the following articles,  “How to Buy a Tuxedo,” “Grooms: Find the Most Flattering Tuxedo Styles for Your Wedding,” “Grooms: A Glossary of Tuxedo Terms and Wedding Tuxedo Styles.”