(image courtesy: ~ Raymond)

The tuxedo is the central outfit to any formal affair. Every guy should know how to buy one, choose one, wear one and most importantly, own one. You never know when an event will call for black tie, and a tux will never go out of style. Follow GearCrave into the store, to the tailor and out on the town as we tell you how to buy a tux. Continue reading, GearCravers, for the details on how to add a tuxedo to your very own wardrobe.

Know what you’re getting into.

When you make the commitment to buy a tux, know that it’s just that — a commitment. It is a huge investment of time and money, so know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. If you’re certain you won’t wear it more than once, then renting is the way to go. But if you attend weddings, fundraisers and intimate cocktail parties often, buying will actually be less hassle than renting. Use your head.

Plan ahead.

A nice tuxedo can range from $500 to upwards of $2,000, so establish your budget before you start looking. And then do just that — look around. Despite popular belief, the tuxedo comes in a variety of styles and colors (even a few different fabrics, too). It’s going to take some window shopping (maybe even a dressing room or two) before you are settled on a look. Take into account the time that the process should take — looking, trying on, buying, tailoring and accessorizing. Plan for a solid month between your first search and receiving the finished product.

Know your body.

When buying any piece of clothing, you’ve gotta be aware of your body. Slim guys swim in wider pants, while stout guys tend to look like they’re wearing spandex in any slim or “tailored” cut. Be completely realistic and honest with yourself. There’s a cut for every body size and there will be one for you. Don’t try to mock the guys in the GQ pages. A well-fitting tux, no matter the body size, will look fantastic.

(image courtesy: ~ Raymond)

Know your style.

Do you want to look pristine and formal? Or are you more of a rebel? Black is classic and a can’t-miss. But grey or light blue tuxes have made a comeback recently and will help you stick out in a crowd. If you’re confused, ask for help. If the place you’re looking doesn’t have a resident expert at hand, you’re not at the right place. Any sales associate (sometimes they go by “personal style assistant” or some other crazy or gaudy variation) should be able to measure you in a flash and match you up with several good options. Don’t buy it unless you’re 100% satisfied with the look and feel of it. And remember to stay in your budget! There’s nothing worse than paying off clothes for five years.

Cut it up.

You need time to get the tux tailored. That thing ain’t gonna fit you perfectly on the first try. Allow at least two weeks. Any men’s boutique should have a skilled tailor available after your purchase. If you prefer going to your own tailor, make sure you trust them (like, take a bullet kind of trust). Most guys are clueless as to what the length of their pants should be. Ask the tailor for a “half break” if you like the pants to come over your shoe a bit. “No break” will have your pant line meeting your shoe. Anything more than a half break and you’ll risk them looking too long. Another key area is your sides (between your armpit and your hips). The jacket should follow your body’s natural curve, not drape over it. Well-tailored suit jackets make the look — you want it to fit your body just like any other favorite article of clothing.

Accessorize.

It’s hard to say how much one should accessorize the tux. This much is sure: you’re going to need a good pair of cufflinks (always go silver — anything else is simply incorrect), a pocket square and a conservative pair of black leather shoes. Look for a pocket square and cufflinks that make a good statement. The cumberbund (that ring of fabric that can be wrapped around the waist) is both cumbersome and unnecessary. And though it’s okay to have fun with your socks in a regular suit, keep it simple with the tux. Last but not least, don’t forget the tie. A simple, hand-tied black bowtie works best, but a clip-on will suffice if you must…

Sell the look.

You might wear a tux once a decade or every weekend depending on your lifestyle. Short of designing your own clothes, this is the piece of your wardrobe that is built for you. So act like a badass in it. There’s a reason James Bond wears them all the time. There’s also a reason they’re required for momentous occasions — they’re classy. Now you know how to wear it right. Just make sure to get it dry-cleaned as soon as you get off the dance floor and get it pressed at the drycleaners after every wear. A sweaty tux is a bad thing. A wrinkled tux is a sin. Good luck, you’re now free to order your martinis shaken, not stirred.

(average rating: 5 out of 5)

 Loading ...

Check out these Related Stories

• Adidas Porsche S2
• The “Verb for Shoe” Smart Shoe
• The Zombie Survival Guide
• Saucony ProGrid Paramount Running Shoes
• AMQ Street Low Canvas Street Low