Thread: Tuxedo help, please!

Hey all,

Well, I'm at the point that I am going to buy a Tux. I've been renting forever, and I hate it. They never fit like my own suit, and usually feel cheap.
I am a buy quality, buy once kinda guy, so I am getting a nice one.

The question is, whcih style to get? There is the traditional one button notch lapel, which is generally worn with a bowtie and a point collar frill-fronted shirt and a cummerbund.
I have recently (the past two black tie events) worn a more modern two or three button tux with a long tie, and a "normal" (can't recall the term) collar. However, I think this is usually just for weddings. I have two charity evens in the next 6 weeks that are black tie, and the more traditional tux I think is the way to go. Then I have some weddings, where I have seen more and more of the long tie worn.

One CAN wear the long tie withthe traditional jacket, and CAN wear the cummerbund and bowtie with the more modern jacket....but which will serve me best if I might switch around over the years? My gut tells me go traditional, but the fashion-whore side of me thinks the more modern look suits me (no poun intended) better. I do not want to regret this decision and I DO NOT want to buy two tuxes.

So HELP me gentlemen...I am sure at least some among us have experience in such matters.

Many thanks for your help.

My personal tux is a very Traditional one...

One thing I have learned over the years with Suits and Tuxes, stay traditional once you are over 30...
Your 20's are for having fashion fun

Now if you are using a bow tie and cummerbund then by all means have some fun with the accenting colors and patterns which you can also do with the shirt.. Of course depending on the event...IMHO

Thanks Glen. That's what I'm thinking at this point. Going to shop tonight after work.

Go classic. You want it to last. If you get something fashionable it'll date. Classic might not be red hot, but it'll always have a sophisticated edge. Also, ditch the cummerbund, & never, ever wear a frilly shirt.

Ben,

No cummerbund? Interesting! I thought they were neccesary when wearing a bowtie.
As for "frilly" shirts, I don't been big poofy frills, but like what is shown here (this is not the tux I am looking at, just for purpose of clarification): Signature Notch Lapel Tuxedo

Great question. I'd say pick up some magazines. Look in GQ Esquire and see what look you like and go from there although the tux is not very popular in the magazine. First off, when you try your suits on, I know this sounds elementary, but try on suits until you get in the one that is too small and go up one size. It is also very important you take that thing to a tailor and get it fit perfectly to you. I don't know if Jos. A Bank is still doing those outrageous sales but they were selling suits for 70% off less than a month ago, no bull. Check their website. I got in on their buy 1 get 2 free deal. Good luck!

Oh and send an email to the guys at putthison.com they got some style and knowledge.

Thank goodness. I had visions of Austin Powers! Go with a cummerbund if you're happy with it.
Mine's come my way from my best mate (who is larger than me, luckily!). It was his grandfather's, who was top ranking military & was made by a tailor on Savile Row. It's such a beautiful suit & in great condition. Built to last!

I'm with Glen et al Re: Style and would point out that you might consider a vest as well as the cummerbund.

AND, though this probably goes without saying, buy a wool tux. You'll be glad you did, and miserable if you didn't.

AND have fun!

Thanks everyone for the advice!

I've just been told by someone who I think I should trust that for youngish men (I'm 35), the bowtie is "out" at the moment when one is going for "stylish" as well as "classic." A vest/tie combo is what is more current.
I am not sure, but THINK that one can buy the classic one button notch lapel and wear a long tie/vest combo. If so, that might be what I am going with. All that time learning to tie a bow tie for nothing!!

Originally Posted by smokelaw1

Thanks everyone for the advice!

All that time learning to tie a bow tie for nothing!!

Well, you'll still need one for Black-Tie events. Nothing trendy about the Queen's Tea... or is that White tie only?