Text by Judith Wilson

As the big day approaches, many grooms find solace in the fact that they get to pick out the attire for the groomsmen along with their own personal tuxedo or suit. After talking with your fiancée to determine what the color scheme will be for the wedding, you may begin your search. Try looking through some of your fiancée’s endless supply of bridal magazines to get an idea of the selection in the current market. Keep in mind that this is the time you can allow your own unique style to contribute to the overall look of the wedding. Two major factors that will help narrow down your search are the season, or time of year, the wedding is scheduled and the time of day. Usually these two details will determine the formality of your selection.

There are several tuxedo rental retailers in the city who are more than willing to assist you with your wedding day attire. We recommend calling a minimum of two retailers to set up a time for you and your best man to visit their establishments. Before you begin, make a list of all the male members of the wedding party so that you know how many tuxes you will need. Many rental venues offer special discounts based on the number of tuxedos that will be rented for the big day. Their associates will be able to assist you in finding the perfect style, fit, and color.

Made-to-measure and custom hand tailored tuxedos are another alternative you may want to explore. Over 50 measurements are taken to create a personalized tuxedo. If you are interested in this option, Jeff Martin of Rodes, Inc., recommends that you start the tailoring process three to four months before the wedding date to insure time for shipping and final fittings. When asked about the latest trend in tuxedos, Jeff replied: “The biggest trend right now is the four-in-hand knot tie and vest instead of the bowtie and cummerbund…and a straight point collar instead of the more classic wing pattern…Some shirts don’t have the pleating, but they have some kind of detail on them.”