How to pick a decent tuxedo for that special event without going broke!

Nothing speaks of "class" than a man in a properly fitting tuxedo. If you're like most folks, you're probably thinking that in order to snag that look you need to go to the mall and rent a tuxedo from upwards of about 50.00 and don't forget they'll charge you for the patent leather shoes and the ties and studs (if they convince you to wear them). It's what is known as a "gotcha.." meaning it's a rip off and they see you coming. If you follow my tips you won't have to break the bank to get the swellegant look, and you'll have all the gals and guys impressed.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a little cash
• time
• bargain shops/thrift stores
• cleaners/tailor

1. 

   Get yourself measured, or you can try measuring yourself. You need to know your size. One trick I use, if I don't know is to either try on suits at a good department store and check the size (jacket should be loose around the armpits, crack in the back above your crack, sleeves should come to the middle of the thumb, collar should be snug but not tight) or you can have one of the gay salesman feel you up,..er um I mean measure you for your size. Then you'll be sure to get a great fit. You can tell them that you want to come back with your girlfriend if you're worried he might be slipping you his number!

2. 

   Once you have your size, head for the Salvation Army, or church basement or thrift stores. I have scored numerous dressy items at such places, because who keeps their tuxedo if the marriage doesn't work out, or after the wedding, I even got a morning suit for 14.00 because a bridal shop went out of business. You can do this.

3. 

   Always go for the classic cut. In this way you can wear the suit over and over again. Or if you choose to be daring you can try and find a tuxedo from the 1970's. Then it can really be fun. But the trouble is that these days the vintage look is so "deck" that everyone is going for it, and thusly, it's hard to find at a cheapo price.

4. 

   Don't be afraid to buy a tuxedo that is a little big on you in the pants and in the jacket. I had this happen to me, so I took it to the handy dandy cleaners and had Ms. Swan tailor it for me. She did a great job and it looked like a "custom" suit after she was finished. The whole thing only cost about 25.00 to have altered.

5. 

   Make certain you do the research and get all the trimmings. Remember you want a bow tie (preferably one that you tie yourself, much classier, easier to find, and it's just like tying your sneakers, you can do this!), studs are out! They are. Just look at the President, or anyone at the awards shows.

6. 

   And let's not forget the shoes. Sneakers are a statement, but if you're already feeling a little sheepish,it's best to stick with the patent leather or at least plain black shoes. And get yourself a gardenia for the lapel and a handkerchief for the pocket (folded with three points) and you'll be one of the classiest guys in the room. Bon Soir mon ami!

Tips & Warnings

• Tuxedo's were found in Tuxedo Park New York in rougly about the 1930's. It seems the men there were rather hot and wanted something a little lighter to cool them down. So they cut of their tails and we had the invention of the "tuxedo" or black tie. Tails are generally reserved for the more formal white tie events
• Men in tuxedos get more play. So beware, you may have the ladies (or boys) lining up to meet you in your handsome get up.
• You may get endless party invitations, because if you own the tuxedo you are always ready to go.
• Don't reveal your secrets. And if they ask if it's rented, you can proudly say, "AS IF!"

[cherry67]

on 8/12/2009 awesome advice