Yes, we know it’s “her day,” and nobody wants to take the focus off of the bride. But while the bride and her gown may take center stage at your nuptials, and while she may seem to be preoccupied with her dress and her makeup and her headpiece, try showing up in an unstylish tux and see if you make it to “I Do.”
Think a tux is a tux is a tux? You may be surprised at how many options you have. We asked Dan Vida of Battista Formal Wear in Thornwood to share some advice about how to choose the perfect tux.
1. Slim Is In
“The slim-fit is in for tuxedos. Ninety-five percent of everything out right now is slim. It’s one of the biggest rentals right now.”
2. Don’t Limit Yourself to Black
“Black is the classic tuxedo color; there will always be black tuxedos. But, at the moment, grays are very fashionable. Every once in a while, you will see a navy blue tuxedo, but not often. Gray and black are the two most common colors.”
3. Choose the Right Lapel
“The three major lapel styles are notch, peak, and shawl. The most common of these styles is the notch lapel; it’s similar to what you would see on a traditional suit.” The lapel you choose will be based not just on your personal taste, but the formality of the wedding. Peak lapels are more formal than notch lapels, and shawl lapels are the most formal, since they are used almost exclusively on tuxedos and dinner jackets.
4. Bowties Are Back
“We went through a period in which traditional neckties were preferred, but that time is quickly coming to a close. Today, we are seeing more bowties than ever before—around three-fourths of tuxedos are currently worn with them.”
5. Accessories
“Generally, the groom’s accessories, vest, and tie, should be white to match the bride. For the groomsmen, these can be matched to the colors of the wedding party. If you’re a guest at the wedding, stick to the classics. Don’t ruin the bride’s photos with obnoxious colors.”
6. Rent or Buy?
“You should get a tuxedo if you’re wearing one at least three to four times a year. At that level of use, it will pay for itself. If you’re using it any less than that, it doesn’t make sense.”
