Formalwear Facts
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.
