The tuxedo seems so simple: what could be complicated about a pair of pants, a blazer, and a buttondown? The confusion arises when you pop into a tuxedo shop and are presented with hundreds of choices. Do you want enamel or pewter cufflinks? Do you want a notched or peaked collar? Do you want a double or single breasted jacket? Scan this simple how-to and you'll be tux-shopping like a pro in no time.
Do Not Procrastinate
If you put off tux-shopping like your math homework, you'll be scrambling at the last minute, fingers crossed that they still have your size in a style other than a Napoleon Dynamite-inspired polyester number. Three months before prom, set aside a few hours to hit up the local tux shop. Not only will you have a better selection, but you'll receive the more attention from the salesgirls.
Do your homework
Begin your tuxedo research online. Check out formalwear photo galleries to see what your options are and head over to GQ.com to get a taste of the latest suiting trends. Armed with the knowledge of what you want, make a list of local tux shops and visit them all before deciding on one. Choose the store with the largest inventory and most helpful salespeople. It doesn't hurt to compare prices, but don't let that be your deciding factor.
Stick to your guns
Many uninformed guys choose tuxedos that match the color and fabric of their dates' dresses. Just as your date would never select a dress based on your personal taste, you should not feel obligated to match your tux to your dates ensemble.
Let your personal style influence your choice in tux. If you're a skinny jean-wearing rocker, choose a slim trouser. If you're a Lacoste-loving prep, add a motif-ribbon belt and trade the stiff vest for a V-neck sweater. If you prefer casual threads, choose a bold tie over a formal bow.
Bring your wallet
A tuxedo rental will run you anywhere from $100-$200, while the investment of buying a tux can reach into the thousands. If you have a string of tuxedo-requiring events in your future, make the plunge and invest in a tux. If, however, you won't be wearing a tuxedo again until your wedding day (and that may be the last time you'll wear one as well), stick with renting.
The sight of your yearly savings spent on a tuxedo might seem heart-wrenching, but consider your date: girls spend up to $500 on a dress they'll wear once. Your situation doesn't sound so terrible, does it?
The Final Picture
Try your tuxedo on a few weeks in advance. Discovering that your shoes are two sizes too small is an easy-to-solve obstacle; uncovering the problem the morning of prom is another story.
