A Groom's Guide to Tuxedos and Suits

You popped the question and she said yes! While majority of wedding planning seems to be on the bride’s plate, purchasing the tuxedo or finding a wedding suit rental is a responsibility that falls into the groom’s hands. Choosing your wedding suit can be quick and easy, and our guide is meant to help you know what details you should pay attention to and be well on your way to looking smart and dapper for your bride on your wedding day.

Jackets

Single breasted vs Double breasted

One of the things you will be asked as you shop for your tuxedo or suit is if you would like a single or double breasted jacket. A single breasted jacket does not have an overlap and consists of a single column of 2 to 3 buttons. The double breasted suit jacket, on the other hand, has overlapping front flaps and 4 to 6 buttons. The double breasted jacket is a bolder look, but features a slimmer cut and is much more flattering.

Tuxedo vs Suit Jacket

The differences between tuxedo and suit jackets are slight, but noticeable if you look closely. Tuxedo jackets can be made of the same material suits typically are made with, such as wool. However, tuxedos feature a satin lapel, and satin buttons. Tuxedos also have satin piping down the pant-leg.

Your tuxedo or suit jacket should fit comfortably on the shoulders and not hang from it. Make sure the length is just right. The hem should end where your palm hangs naturally.

Fabrics

Wool is the most popular fabric for suits and tuxedos as it drapes beautifully and has a nice finish. Wool is also an insulated and breathable fabric which makes it very comfortable.

Linen is another option for your suit jacket. This is more popularly used for spring and summer formal events. It’s a very lightweight fabric. One of the downsides of linen is that it is very prone to wrinkling, however if you are having a wedding in a warmer climate, this can be a comfortable option. If you’re concerned about wrinkling, go with wool.

tie or Bowtie?

This is a very familiar dilemma, however, it really comes down to personal preference and your wedding dress code. Bowties are more appropriate for formal events, and are smaller and draw more attention to the groom’s face and less to the chest which a regular tie would. Bowties are also usually worn with tuxedos. If your wedding is black-tie, a tuxedo with a bowtie is the ideal choice.

Ties come in several colors and patterns. Ties with vertical stripes also provide a slimming effect to the body, which can be useful. If you’re wearing a suit, definitely go with a tie.

Small Details

Lapels

For weddings and formal events, a peak lapel is recommended. Peak lapels have a peak where the jacket collar meets the lapel. This makes the wearer look taller. If you would like to have a more relaxed yet formal look, choose a notch lapel.

Shirt Collars

While the standard for dress shirts for formal events is always white, there are a couple of options for dress shirt collars. The spread collar is the most common type of shirt collar and can be found in plenty of dress shirts. You can ask your tailor for shirt collar options and go with what makes you feel handsome and comfortable.

Cuffs

There are 2 types of cuffs. French cuffs and barrel cuffs. French cuffs require the use of cufflinks, while barrel cuffs do not need to be rolled up and are held together by buttons sewn onto the cuffs. If you’d like to add some personality to your suit or tuxedo, go for French cuffs and get a pair of cufflinks for some added flair.

Accessories

Belt

If you are wearing a tuxedo, you don’t need to wear a belt with it, as tuxedo pants should not have belt loops. For suits, it’s up to you if you would like to use a belt (make sure it matches your shoes), opt for suspenders, or go without - no one is going to see it anyway, when your jacket is buttoned.

Cufflinks and studs

Cufflinks allow some of your personality to shine through. If your dress shirt has French cuffs, you should definitely wear cufflinks as there is no other way to hold your cuffs together. Button studs can be worn instead of using the buttons with your tuxedo shirt if you choose. Using cufflinks and studs can add some bling to your tuxedo