Choosing a Formalwear Specialist You will want to look at the reputation and
quality of your options. Get referrals from friends and family. You don't want
to compromise on quality or service and look for a retailer who carries current
styles. The last think you want is a tuxedo that looks like it's from five
years ago! Ask your tuxedo retailer these questions:
Is stock replaced on a regular basis?
How many times is a garment cleaned and what methods do they use?
Is there a full-time, on-site tailor?
Why be measured by a Formalwear Specialist?
It's essential in ensuring you get the proper
fit of your tuxedo. Property fitted formalwear is a must for comfort and look. Ask
for a trained, knowledgeable fitter.
How do we select a style?
Look
through men's magazines and catalogues (Derks is available online too) and find
styles that appeal to you. Share ideas on what her attendants will be wearing
because you want your formalwear to compliments the overall look of the
wedding. Once you've decided, head to your chosen location and speak to a
specialist. Make sure you have a wide
selection of styles, from fashion forward looks to the traditional tuxedo.
How can the groom's attendants compliment the
bride's?
With so many choices in accessories, you can
find the perfect colour that will highlight the colours chosen for the
attendants. With the largest selection of vest and accessories, formalwear
professionals can assist you in co-ordinating the look of the all the
attendants
When is the best time to book our formalwear? As early as possible, especially if you're
looking to rent during May through September to ensure you get the style you
desire, as this time is still the most popular time for weddings. Booking four
to six months in advance is suggested.
Does everyone need to be there when we book? No and it may be easier to come in alone or
just with your fiancé when making your
decisions. Once the styles are chosen, your consultant will enter them into the
computer system. The rest of your party can then come in at a time that works best
for them, but make sure they are prompt.
What happens if someone comes in much later? When one person waits too long, they might not
be able to fit into the same style you have chosen, which can lead to a lot of
disappointment. We will then inform you of the situation and you will have to
decide what needs to be done. Avoid this situation by having everyone come in a
timely fashion, no less than three months prior to your event
What payment is required?
Payment is usually required at the time of
booking but make sure to check with your formalwear provider.
After my order is complete, may I make
changes?
Yes but only your formalwear consultant can
make the necessary changes and its best if you can make these changes in person.
Also, only the bride or groom can make changes. Check with your formalwear
provider as policy on changes can differ greatly. For example, some retailers
will not allow any changes within two weeks of the wedding while other might
charge a small fee.
Should shoes be rented? In order to maintain consistency and complete
the formal look, we suggest you rent shoes. You don't want yourr groomsmen
showing up in their tuxes and sneakers. Footwear is professionally cleaned and
maintained to the highest standards.
Do we need a final fit? Final fittings are conducted to ensure you
have received the proper fit and that you are completely satisfied with your
choices. Final fits also give you the opportunity to learn valuable tips on the
proper way to wear your tuxedo. On-site tailoring means alterations may be made
if necessary. Final fittings are done at the time you pick up your rental.
What should I do in the event there is a
problem with my formalwear on my special day?
Check with your formalwear provider and what
their policy is. Some stores have emergency staff and might even be able to send someone out to your wedding location.
When do we return our formalwear?
To avoid late fees, all garments must be
returned as soon as possible. Your formalwear specialist should cover all of
this information with you, including when the tux should be back, and late fees
and the hours your location will be open for returns.
Formalwear Checklist
The tuxedo is stylish and always elegant. Worn
with matching trousers, a dress shirt and coordinating accessories a tuxedo is
perfect for any wedding. Here are the elements you should be familiar with when
choosing your formalwear:
a. Collar: Stand up or
wing collar complements a long neck; a shorter neck looks best with a laydown
collar
b. Ties: Bow ties are made
of formal fabric like a satin or brocade. Euro ties are made of the same
fabrics and offer a more forward look ideal with a three or four button jacket.
Ties needn't always match the colour of the bride's attendants' dresses. Black,
gold, or silver ties with a subtle shimmer give formalwear a timeless elegance.
Distinguish the groom from the groomsmen by choosing a slightly different tie,
i.e. a solid if they're wearing a pattern.
c. Shirt: Traditionally, a
pleated shirt is worn with a tuxedo. The proper closures are studs and cuff
links in black, pearl, gold, silver or precious stones
d. Sleeve: Allow one-half
of an inch of shirtsleeve to show beneath the sleeve of the jacket
e. Cummerbund: Made of
brocade, silk or satin, it covers the waistband and range from mild to wild.
Consider the mood and season of the wedding before choosing one and be sure
that what you wear around your middle looks good around your neck as
cummerbunds and ties usually match. And always place the pleats upward
f. Vest: Made of brocade, silk or satin in a fullback or halfback
style, a vest is the most comfortable and popular compliment to the tuxedo.
They come in a wealth of choices and add personality to even the most
conservative tuxedo. The fullback vest looks terrific on its own and allows the
jacket to be removed later in the evening when everyone is more relaxed. It's
not necessary to match vest and tie but make certain you don't clash with the
hue of the boutonniere
g. Trousers: can be
double-pleated or flat-front and should break about five-inches above the
ankle. There's a satin stripe on the side. The bottoms are never cuffed. h.
Shoes - Black patent or matte finished oxfords or slip-ons are appropriate
choices. A business shoe clashes with the streamlined look of formalwear while
Formal shoes are sleeker. Match hose to trousers
h. Shoes: Black patent or
matte finished oxfords or slip-ons are appropriate choices. A business shoe
clashes with the streamlined look of formalwear while Formal shoes are sleeker.
A groom's boutonniere
should complement the flowers and colours of their bride's bouquet. But they
should say something about the groom's personality, too. Groomsmen boutonnieres
should complement the flowers of the bride's attendants.