Groom's Attire

Scouting around the web and came across some general but good tips for a groom in the making.
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We've never met a man who doesn't look great in a tuxedo, but that doesn't mean he has to wear one at his wedding. Today's options are endless. As you're deciding on your attire, one thing to keep in mind is the formality of the event -- is it a black tie wedding or a beach wedding? Take your cue from the bride. Then create a look that fits your personality and complements her.

Tuxedos

Black Tie -Black tie weddings are hotter than ever, and statistics show that more men own tuxedos than ever. And while Armani makes a gorgeous tux, you don't have to spend a fortune -- there are many labels at a wide range of prices. You can certainly rent a tux, but if you plan to wear one more than twice, it pays to buy.

After Hours Tuxedos

Tux Shirts - There are various types of tuxedo shirts, including the ¼" pleated shirt and the wider, very elegant ½" to ¾" pleat. The pique shirtfront is also popular, and works well on larger guys. There are other options as well, such as a placket front or horizontal pleats. There are three types of collars: the wing collar, the most popular, in which you can see the whole bow tie; the laydown collar, which reveals only the bow and knot; and the band collar, with which no tie is worn -- instead, a cufflink-like fastener closes the shirt at the throat.

Studs And Cufflinks - Although tux shirts are available with button cuffs, French cuffs fastened with cufflinks are a common choice. Most tux shirts button down the front, but also offer special buttonholes below the neck for the insertion of shirt studs. They come in sets of four and should match your cufflinks. Cufflinks and studs run anywhere from $20 to $100, and are usually made of onyx or mother-of-pearl, surrounded by gold plate or silver.

Ties - Formal silk or satin bow ties and cummerbunds are forever. However, many men opt for a gray or black satin classic tie instead.

The Right Tux For Your Body Type - Certain styles look best on certain body types. Here are some tips:

Tall And Slender - You could probably wear any style, but thin men look best in double-breasted jackets. Shoulders should be padded a bit more than normal, and the trousers should be full with a higher rise.
Tall And Husky -- The shawl collar tux is the perfect choice. The jacket is usually single-breasted with one button and the trouser legs should be slightly wider if you have large or muscular thighs. Avoid thin bow ties; instead choose a tie that is in proportion with your face and neck.

Short And Stocky -- The shawl collar tux is a good choice, single-breasted, with the button around the belt line to make your torso appear longer and leaner. Choose a jacket with a lot of shoulder padding, and consider pleated trousers. Avoid wing-tip collars and very small ties if you have a large face or neck. If you are on the heavier side, consider a vest over the traditional cummerbund.

Short And Thin -- A single-breasted jacket with a low single button will lengthen the lines of your look. If you'd like to appear broader, a notched or "peal" lapel is a good choice. Or create the same effect with a double-breasted jacket. The trousers should be pleated with reverse double pleats, and the trouser legs should break just above the shoes, angling slightly downward in back. Smaller bow ties are the best choice for your frame, as are vests with an elegant, understated pattern.

A Final Word -- If your choices are slim, opt for a shawl collar jacket. It's a classic - you can't go wrong.

Tux Alternatives

The Dark Suit. A navy blue, charoal or black suit with a white shirt and dark tie is a gorgeous look -- one worn by the late JFK Jr.

The Dinner Jacket. If your wedding is between Memorial Day and Labor Day, nothing is more elegant than a white dinner jacket. Winter wedding? How about a gray flannel dinner jacket? Or blackwatch plaid? Or black velvet? All stunning.

Casual Attire. For less formal weddings, the range of creativity is endless. When choosing attire, consider the precise location. If it's a beach wedding, will it take place on the sand or nearby? In either case, there are few more elegant looks than a blue blazer and khakis. If you want to go really casual, consider navy trousers -- or even stone-colored khaki shorts -- with a white linen shirt. As long as your attire fits the occasion, you can't go wrong.

Whether you're choosing a tuxedo or a casual look, try to project yourself forty years into the future. If you've chosen simple, classic attire, your love won't be the only thing that's timeless.



Source of article: The Wedding Network