Men's Formalwear 101

In an industry that's all about the dress, it can often feel like the groom's attire is an afterthought. Tom Buczinski of Louie's Tux Shop weighs in on the most frequently asked questions when it comes to men's formalwear.

Where should men start when it comes to picking out their formalwear style?

Tom: When it comes to selecting the attire for the guys there are obviously plenty of visual resources available online but it will never replace the in store experience. Today’s formalwear features incredible fabrics, updated fits and hundreds of accessory and color options. Having the ability to see, touch and feel the actual clothing you will be wearing for your wedding day is something you should never pass up.

What is the difference between tuxedos and suits? Why do you recommend tuxedos over suits?

Tom: Suits are for every day wear and tuxedos are for special occasions only with the big difference being the satin appointments featured on a tuxedo that adds a level of elegance appropriate for the biggest day of your life. The groom should never over dress nor under dress his bride and the formality of the gown should determine what is appropriate. Customers sometime assume that suits may be more comfortable or less expensive and neither are true, the fabrics in tuxedos are much more refined and the increased number of options lead to more pricing options as well.

What mistakes do people frequently make when renting/buying men's formalwear?

Tom: Ordering your tuxedos sight unseen might be the most dangerous proposition for your wedding day. Whether it is through a catalog or online, you should always be aware that the picture may not tell the entire story about the garment including things such as age, conditioning or perhaps an outdated fit. Your ability to see, touch and feel the merchandise in advance will give you a higher level of confidence and eliminate any concerns whatsoever. For our grooms we always recommend trying on the product in advance to ensure you will look and feel your best. This is virtually impossible when sourcing online or through a catalog.

How should people prepare or what should they expect when they set an appointment at a tux shop?

Tom: Be ready for a visual experience and try to have some fun. We sample all our merchandise in the store so playing a little “dress up” with the mannequins is always an enjoyable experience. If color matching is important, bringing a swatch can be very helpful. We always like to have the groom fitted on his first visit which will set the table for custom try-on’s at a later visit if necessary. Be prepared to talk groomsmen logistics as well, we like to discuss out-of-state guests, time schedules and fitting windows to ensure everything goes perfectly for the entire party.

What, in men's formalwear, is trending right now? Why?

Tom: The men’s formalwear fashions right now are the best they have ever been. Incredible lightweight fabrics that are ultra-comfortable along modern fits that will have your bridal party runway ready. Colored fabric options including grey and navy have been very strong and many brides are utilizing 3-piece looks with matching vest fabrics for a distinguished look. Black tuxedos with unique appointments are widely available and we are jazzed about the trend towards colored dinner jackets which are straight from the hey days of the Rat Pack. Lots of exciting stuff in our stores right now, the fashions and fits are at an all-time high.

Louie's Tux Shop is a family-owned and -operated men's formalwear store with 15 locations located throughout Indiana.