How to Buy a Tuxedo for the Groom

Buying a tuxedo for the groom is becoming more and more economically sensible. With the cost of renting a tux going up, and formal events becoming more popular, you are better off buying one. With a little bit of research, you can buy a tuxedo for the groom at a price comparable to the price of rental fees, and you’ll be able to keep the item after it is used for your wedding.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• computer

1. Decide on a budget for the purchase of the groom’s tuxedo. Remember, the tux can be worn to other events and will save money on rental fees in the long run. Spending a little extra now to buy will save many headaches in the future.
2. Go online and type in the Web address of your favorite retail store. When the page loads, either type in “tuxedo” in the search engine or click the Menswear tab on the homepage.
3. Narrow your search results to include formalwear only. The Menswear tab will display all of the options available in men’s fashion, but should provide subcategories once the page loads.
4. Take a look at the various styles and cuts that are available. Remember that the more traditional tailoring will be more useful for future events. Take notes on the several options and prices available.
5. Visit several retail sites and compare prices. Most retailers offer a description of each item. Click on the picture or the product name to get a description. Remember that the more wool that the tuxedo contains, the better.
6. After comparing several options, make your purchase. For tuxedoes, the tailoring and design are pretty standard, and it is not necessary to have it custom made. Men’s sizes generally run universal and true, and any fitting problems can be fixed with simple tailoring.
7. Look at the accessories that are available. Most tuxedo accessories need to be purchased separately, but for ease of purchase they come in sets. Many retailers offer sets consisting of a cummerbund, bowtie, button studs and cufflinks. The tuxedo shirt and shoes will also need to be purchased separately.

Tips & Warnings

• Before looking online or at a department store, make sure that the groom is thoroughly measured. Most men’s suit stores and tailor shops will measure for free. Measurements consist of chest, shoulders, waist, neck, arm and inseam, but tuxedo coats and pants are usually offered in standard chest and waist measurements with the coat and pant purchased separately.
• Avoid trendy designs if you want to use the tuxedo for other occasions. Steer clear of highly formal designs such as cutaway coats and tails.
• Leave plenty of time for tailoring and shipping. It can take up to several weeks for your tuxedo to arrive, and then an additional two weeks to have it tailored depending on what needs to be done.
• If at all possible, have the tuxedo shipped directly to the nearest retail store of the Web site that you ordered it from. Most retailers will accept the liability of damage to items that are shipped directly to them, but may not if it is shipped to your residence.