Things Every Man Should Own: Tuxedo

As many of you know, I personally like to dress up.  But if I can be frank, I was not a huge fan of tuxes.  Generally speaking, I would rent a tux that didn’t fit me that well, it had a ton of bells and whistles that made putting the thing on a severe pain in the ass chore, you were out like $100, and to top it off you paid all of that to either blend in with everyone else or to look like a Batman villain. With that being said, most men are going to need to wear a tux multiple times in their lives (outside of prom).  If you are in college, chances are there will be a couple of formal events where you should wear a tux and if you plan on being successful in your career at ANY point you will need a tux. 

The question now is why own v. rent.  Well the argument in simple: buying one is cheaper.  “Why” you ask?  Well, even though “bargin” rentals (usually somewhere between $50 and $70) seem like a viable options, if you went 4 times in 5 years you will have spend at least $200 if not more and that money could have paid for a nice tux.  If you rent a tux more than that, you have already spent more than you would have to buy one.  On top of that, you have all of the fees associated with tux rentals (all the extra stuff like the buttons and cuff links, late fees, fees for losing things, etc.) that make renting a tux a real pain. 

So you are ready to buy a tux, what should you look for.  Well first and foremost, you want something simple and classic.  Don’t waste your money on a 5 white button tux with a Mandarin collar so you can look like a kung fu movie reject.  Look for black, 2 or 3 buttons, and peaked or notch lapel.  Satin on the lapel is another thing to look for because you can’t go wrong with it.  Unless you are Mr. Peanut, no tails.  You don’t need a crazy shirt with ruffles or pleats, a crisp white dress shirt will do.  I recommend a simple spread collar because they look a little more formal and can accommodate both a straight tie and a bow tie.  You can get french cuffs if you want a more traditional look, or barrel cuffs if you want the more modern understated look. Some of you may be asking “What about the cummerbun/vest?”.  What about them?  Cummerbuns, in my opinion, are dated and unnecessary (and most guys look ridiculous in them ESPECIALLY without their jacket).  Vests are trickier, they can look good on some people.  Make sure its black (no need to match your date) and simple. 

As far as where to look for tuxes, Overstock.com is a GREAT place to start.  I was able to get a Kenneth Cole Slim Collection tux (which isn’t a particularly slim collection at all!) for around $200 shipped.  Took it to my tailor and for another $40 (took in the sides, hemmed the pants, and tapered the sleeves) it fit like it was made for me.  Macys is another good place.  They are well known for their affordable prices and high quality.  I am particularly impressed with the Tommy Hilfiger trim fit line they carry, and the trim fit tux comes in suit separates (so you can get the jacket size you need separate from the pants… saves money when it comes time to tailor things).  On the higher end of things, Brooks Brothers is the way to go.  Classic tailoring, high quality, for the price they can’t be beat.