1) "Get With" the Theme! And Don't Forget the Bride!
Don't look out of place at your own wedding! Weddings can have themes ranging from The Great Gatsby, to Art Deco, Renaissance, Nouveau... It's your party and you're the co-star. So, dress the part! Choose a tuxedo that complements your bride's gown. For instance, if it's a traditional wedding, dress in a classic tux. If it is a modern wedding or themed wedding, then dress according to the theme and style.
2) "Don't Sweat It!"
Consider the climate and time of year. If you are getting married in the south in mid-summer, you should go with a lighter, more breathable fabric. If your theme is a beach wedding, opt for white instead of the traditional black tux. In the winter months, a traditional tux may do the trick.
3) Like "Night and Day."
Are you planning an evening or daytime wedding? The general rule is that evening weddings or those after 6pm are considered more formal. Such a wedding calls for full dress, including tux, tuxedo shirt, cummerbund or vest, tie or bow tie, cufflinks and studs and tuxedo shoes.
For daytime weddings, your attire can be less formal.
Although a tux is still appropriate, some couples opt for a dressy suit with tuxedo accessories.
4) It's All About You!
Find your personal style and show some flair, whether it is the style of your tux shirt or the cufflinks and studs that you choose. A touch here and there can really make the look your own.
5) Don't Be Late For Your Own Wedding!
Don't procrastinate! This is not something you sit on until a couple of weeks before your wedding. Finding the right tuxedo takes time, as do fittings to make it look just right. Alterations can take a few weeks. If you're having the tux custom made, allow 2 months.
6) It Just Ain't Fitting!
Make sure it fits. There should be no pulling, puckering, sagging or drooping. The length should cover your socks when you are walking but not puddle on the floor when you are standing. A professional will be able to help you make the right choices and get a fit that will be both comfortable and flattering.
7) Ahhhhhh, This Feels Good!
Yes, you can be comfortable in a tuxedo, if it fits well and is made from a nice, high-quality fabric. When you figure in the photo sessions, the wedding ceremony and the reception, not to mention all that dancing, you will be wearing this tuxedo for quite a while.
8) When a Little "Bling" Will Do!
Tuxedo shirts require cufflinks and studs. Here is where you can flaunt your personal taste, by choosing from simple gold knots to gorgeous inlays. You don't have to spend a fortune. Unless the set is under a jeweler's loupe, costume cufflinks and studs will achieve the same look.
9) Who Wants "Pre-owned," Anyway!
Consider buying rather than renting. A tuxedo is no more expensive than a good quality suit. You would never rent a suit, so why rent a tux? Plus, you don't know who's worn it before... yuck! The fit will look better and the fabric will feel great on a tuxedo that you buy or have made...
Most importantly, you get to keep it.
10) You Are My Sunshine!
Polish and shine! Shoes finish off your look. Make sure they are clean and polished. Black patent leather is the standard. If you buy new, don't forget to break them in.
The last thing you want to think about during this momentous occasion is how much your feet hurt.
So enjoy yourself and have the time of your life!
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Janine Giorgenti is a renowned fourth generation Italian designer, image consultant and custom clothier. Visit her website at http://www.bestcustomtuxedo.com for more style advice and fashion tips.
