Q. What do a groom- and his bride - need to know about tuxedo shirts ? Does color matter ?

A. Yes, color matters. Tuxedo shirts are available in white and ivory. Many agree that the color of the shirt should match the color of the bride's dress. However, if the groom is wearing an ivory vest and tie, we recommend a white shirt for a contrast that will highlight the accessories and avoid the chance of an extra shade of ivory clashing with the gown and accessories.

Q, Should a groom and groomsmen "match" the bridesmaids ? What are the best ways to complement the bridesmaids without going overboard ?

A. It is not necessary to match the bridesmaids' dresses. However, "matching" does add color and looks nice in photographs. Black vests with colored ties are a great way to introduce a touch of color. Silver accessories complement many hard-to-match colors.

Q. My fiance is talking about wearing a tux he bought in high school to our wedding! Can you help me convince him that this is a bad idea ?

A. Most of the time a tuxedo you wore to your prom is NOT in fashion anymore! Sell it on E-bay or give it to a local charity. Visit a men's formalwear shop to find a tux that demonstrates your unique personality while remaining in fashion.

Q. What are the advantages to purchasing a tux ? What are the advantages of renting a tux ?

A. The one advantage to purchasing a tux is that it's cost effective for someone who attends black tie affairs at least two or three times a year. If you rent a tux, you can change your styles each time you wear one. If you fluctuate in weight, by renting a tux you will always have garments that fit you. Most importantly, when you rent, you'll match the rest of the bridal party when you're in a wedding.

Q. What are some ways to know that a tuxedo fits well ?

A. A tuxedo fits properly when it's comfortable in the shoulders and fitted around the waist. The length of the jacket sleeves should be even on each side and should be 3.5 to 4.25 inches from the tip of your thumb. This is "the rule of thumb." The pant length should hit right where the heel meets the shoe.

Q. Should the groom's tuxedo be different than his groomsmen's tuxedos ?

A. The difference between the groom and his groomsmen should be the color of the boutonniere and/or the color of the accessories. Traditionally, the groom wears white or ivory accessories and the groomsmen wear darker colored accessories. Another way for the groom to distinguish himself is to wear "full dress" or "tails." The groomsmen can wear regular length jackets with matching lapels.

Q. I've heard some tuxedo rental horror stories. What should we expect from the store where we get our men's formalwear as far as service and professionalism ?

A. A professional tuxedo store is fully stocked with merchandise and a full tailor shop on the premises. The staff at the store is should be able to fit and alter on the spot if necessary. Out-of-town measurements are very common and not always correct. Always try a tuxedo on before leaving the store with it. Find a store that will be able to make any adjustments, changes or alterations without forcing the customer to come back at a later date.

Q. How far in advance of the wedding should we arrange for our men's formalwear ?

A. Formalwear is traditionally ordered two to four months before the wedding. All the men should have their measurements to the store 30 days prior to the wedding date. Be courteous enough to give your formalwear operator time to have all the men measured and to prepare their tuxedos for your scheduled pick up time. Make sure all the men try on their tuxedos before leaving the store to prevent any big surprises.

Q. How may days before the wedding should we pick up our tuxedos ? What if they don't fit correctly ?

A. Pick up scheduling depends on your formalwear store. Thursday or Friday before the wedding is usually when your rental period begins. If you are using a reputable formalwear store, they will do your last-minute alterations, adjustments or shoe switches on the spot. To avoid late fees, check your store return policy. Tuxedos are typically due back on the first business day after the wedding. During peak tuxedo season, such as April and May, making this deadline is important. The best man should return tuxes for himself, the groom and any groomsmen from out of town.

For Service, Quality, and Selection it's
Tuxedo Wearhouse.