Approximately 3-6 months before the wedding is the best time to choose the tuxedos for your wedding. To get some ideas on what you may like to wear, you can look at bridal magazines or search the internet. Local bridal shows are a great source for viewing new tuxedos and accessories. Next, you want to visit your local tuxedo shop. If you can, it is a good idea to try on a few tuxedos to make sure you find one that looks good on you (you’ll know by the smile on your bride’s face). Pinstripe tuxedos have been popular recently as well as tuxedos with satin edged lapels. If you prefer a softer feel, a super 100 wool tuxedo may be right for you. Brown tuxedos are now available and offer an alternative to the traditional black tux.

After you’ve chosen the tux, you need to choose accessories. What color vests, what type of shirt and tie and what kind of shoes are a few things you’ll need to decide. Many couples like to match the men’s vests to the dresses that the ladies are wearing. This is a great idea for your groomsmen. The groom can be different, possibly wearing a white, ivory or black vest. Fathers should stay neutral wearing a black or silver vest. These are just a few guidelines and it is not imperative that you follow them. Next chose between the traditional bow tie and the popular windsor tie. Solid windsor ties, as well as geometric patterned ties and striped windsor ties are all available to help you create your individual look. There are 3 main colors to choose from when picking out your shirts, white, ivory, and black. The wing collar is usually worn with a bow tie and the laydown collar is usually worn with a windsor tie although a windsor tie also looks great with a wing collar shirt. When choosing your shoes, make sure they match your tuxedo and pick ones that fit your tastes like the traditional jazz oxford or the fashion square toes. Please do not let the men wear any shoes, because what they think is formal may not be appropriate for a tuxedo.

Now that you know what you’re wearing, you need to get your guys fitted. If they live close by (within an hour), they should visit the tuxedo shop and get fitted no later than 3-4 weeks prior to the wedding. If they live further away, they can get fitted at a tuxedo shop near them and send the measurements to your tux shop. You may need to follow up on your guys to make sure they are getting this done. Tuxedos are generally ready for pick up 2-3 days before the wedding. It is always a good idea that all the men try on their tuxedos before the wedding to make sure everything fits. Last minute adjustments can usually be made, but the sooner you find out the better.

Now you’re ready to style and profile at your wedding, but don’t forget, returns are usually the first business day after use. If you are leaving town, you may need to make arrangements for your tux return.

Article Submitted by: Ted from Mr. Tux, State College