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Step 1
Get measured for the proper fit. To obtain your proper tux shirt size, use a measuring tape to determine your collar width and sleeve length. Dress shirts have two measurements: collar width and sleeve length. For example: a tux shirt can have a 14 1/2 inch collar and a 32 to 33 inch sleeve length.
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Step 2
Decide on the type of tie needed to accessorize the shirt. There are three types of ties worn with tux shirts: clip-on or pre-tied ties, bow ties or long ties. The clip-on tie has a small metal piece attached to the back of the tie. This metal piece is used to attach the tie to the front of the tux shirt. A standard bow tie is associated with formal wear, and has a butterfly shape. The long tie, similar to a tie worn with a basic dress suit, is a style seen frequently on the red carpet and at semi-formal events. Men add a long tie when their collar has at least a ¼-inch pleat.
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Step 3
Add a white tie to your tux shirt. If you want to emulate President Barack Obama's 2009 Inauguration look, add a white bow tie to your tuxedo shirt. Men wear white bow ties during occasions where guests wear the most formal attire. For example: white tie is usually worn to weddings after 6 o'clock, to accept the Nobel Prize or when the president of the United States is having a state dinner honoring foreign royalty or heads of state.
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Step 4
Wear your tux shirt with denim. Pair your pleated tux shirt with dark jeans and black or brown accessories to dress up your denim. To upgrade your Western wear for a trip to the local bar or an evening of country line dancing, add a shiny pair of cowboy boots and a 10-gallon hat to add a little style to your Texas two-step.
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Step 5
Dress up your tux shirt with formal accessories. Cuff links, cummerbunds and studs add classic sartorial style to your tux shirt. Don't be afraid to add a little sparkle to a basic black tuxedo. Cuff links and studs adorned with gemstones are important accessories that add color to your formal wear.
