All About the Tux

Fashion & Beauty

Yakima Clifton in a suit from Bernard’s Formalwear. Hair and makeup by Posh The Salon; bouquet by Bloom Works. Photo by Morgan Caddell Photography

How to find the perfect wedding suit or tuxedo

By Rachel O’Hare

There are a lot of details to consider when selecting a suit or tuxedo for yourself, friends or family members. Where do you shop? Are you buying, renting or looking for something custom? Keep reading to make sense of it all.

A SUIT THAT’S UNIQUELY YOU Keith Smith, operations manager of Bernard’s Formalwear in Durham, encourages clients to distinguish themselves from their wedding party. “For some, it’s a different tie or vest,” he says. “Others, a different style and color. Never has this trend been stronger. We are seeing people who want to stand out for their wedding.”

Opt for a suit with a pop of color, interesting fabric or non-traditional structure – a popular and trendy choice for modern weddings. Dusty rose and white suit colors have increased in popularity. Fabrics such as velvet and Jacquard can also elevate the traditional tuxedo in a classy way. Earth tones like olive and terra cotta are in style for more alternative nuptials, and linen makes for a crisp and lightweight summer wedding look.

Think about the setting of your wedding and how formal you want to dress when deciding between a suit and tuxedo. Go with a lightweight suit or a nice jacket and khaki pants for a laid-back wedding. A formal tuxedo or velvet suit jacket and black pants will set the tone at a black-tie affair. Of course, at the end of the day, you want to remember your wedding attire as something that was uniquely you! Choose a fabric or style that will make you feel comfortable and confident. Be sure to also think about what kind of neckwear and shoes will polish off your look and complement your style.

INVEST IN YOUR WEDDING DAY LOOK The lower cost of suit or tuxedo rentals may lead you to rent instead of buy. However, couples might be surprised to learn that owning a beautiful suit is a realistic option that won’t eat up your entire budget.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, people want to make investments in consumer products that are made to last. This includes suits and tuxedos! Owning a suit does not have to be an expensive ordeal. If you’re going to wear one in future formal events and weddings, you might as well find the perfect one! Rental suits usually cost around $175, off-the-rack suits sell for between $275 and $1,200, and custom suits are typically $800-$1,200, depending on fabric, style and detail.

TUXEDO TIMELINE We recommend that suits or tuxedos are rented or purchased four to six months before the big day. Get an idea of what you’re looking for and styles you like before going shopping. Consider what your significant other is wearing so that you don’t clash at the altar! Planning in advance will give you ample time for alterations – experts

Austin Harbison in a custom suit from Liles Clothing Studio. Photo by Morgan Caddell Photography recommend having them done two months before the wedding – and for your wedding party to get fitted, too.

THE PERFECT FIT The exceptional staff at Liles Clothing Studio in Raleigh can find your style, customize your fit and coordinate accessories to your wedding colors, all within your budget.

“Consider the wedding venue, whether it’s formal, informal or a destination wedding,” advises Becky Bell, Liles Clothing Studio’s chief financial officer and office manager. “Also, if the person wears suits on a semi-regular or regular basis, they should go with a tuxedo to stand out from their typical attire. Look timeless as you look back in pictures years from now!”

With 25-plus years of experience in made-to-measure clothing, Liles Clothing Studio has gained the trust of Raleigh’s most respected local leaders and professionals. Customization has become a significant part of its business and reputation.

“It’s better to spend a little more than you plan to, rather than less than you should,” Becky says. “Stretch your given budget to get the best quality you can. Allow room for accessories that we can color match to your wedding, and leave something in there for some great wedding party gifts.”

REIGNBEAUTYNC.COM ARE YOU READY TO REIGN?

Reign Beauty was created with YOU in mind. We provide luxury and professional on location beauty services for your big day or special occasion. Our artists come with years of experience and training to give you only the best in modern hair and makeup. Let us take care of your wedding day beauty from “Yes” to “I Do”. Our goal is to provide you with a memorable getting ready experience all while making you look and feel like your best self. Proudly serving Raleigh, Wilmington, Charlotte and Beyond.

PHOTOS, TOP LEFT: WEDDINGS BY BLUESKY. BOTTOM FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: JK PHOTOS, THE AXTELLS: WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY + FILM, AND DANIELLE HUTCHINSON PHOTOGRAPHY.

CAROLINE LIMA PHOTOGRAPHY / WINN SEAY

We can outfit you and your groomsmen for your special day! Our exceptional staff can find your style, customize your fit and co-ordinate your accessories to your wedding colors all within your budget.

lilesclothingstudio.com | 919-510-5556