black tie is back

Backyard weddings and virtual ceremonies worked in a pinch, but formal events have now been restored to the agenda. Be sure your tux is ready for all those save-the-dates.

Comfort was key during the 2020 shutdown—even our attire for weddings was relaxed, whether they were conducted over Zoom or in someone’s yard. Of course, you never failed to look your best, but attending life’s most special moments just wasn’t the same because you weren’t dressed to the nines. The good news is that “normal” has returned, as you likely have noticed thanks to the abundance of invitations to weddings and galas that have appeared in your mailbox. That means it’s time to visit us at Shaia’s, where we’ll size you up for your new made-to-measure tux. From a perfect-fitting jacket to modern accessories, our tailors and stylists will go through the checklist below and make sure, item by item, that you’re ready to go when the next big event arrives.

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JACKET CUT:

The tuxedo has been around for more than 100 years. What started as a dinner jacket in the late 1800s has seen very little change from its original design. Today’s jacket has a more modern shape and fit.

JACKET LAPEL:

Wear a silk-faced peak lapel for highly formal occasions and a rounded shawl style when you want to soften your look.

JACKET SLEEVE:

For the perfect length, be sure the sleeve shows about 3/8” of the shirt cuff—just enough for others to see your fancy cuff links.

JACKET LENGTH:

There are a couple rules of thumb that are easy to follow: The jacket should cover your rear end and, with your arms at your side, the garment should end between your thumb’s knuckle and base.

PANT LEG WIDTH:

Finding a cut that flatters your waist, thighs and calves is key. In other words, pants that are too tight will wrinkle, while anything that has too much material runs the risk of appearing baggy and sloppy.

PANT LEG LENGTH:

Though you’ve shown plenty of ankle this summer, keep them covered at a formal event. In general, trousers should have half or no break. The half break is standard, showing a slight dent where the hem rests on the top of the shoe.

SHIRT COLLAR:

The most often chosen arrangement for tails is a wing collar. The majority of what we sell is a medium spread collar.

Backyard weddings and virtual ceremonies worked in a pinch, but formal events have now been restored to the agenda. Be sure your tux is ready for all those save-the-dates.

ADD SOME FLAIR

Double-sided cuff links for your French-cuff shirt will give you a polished look, more than the T-bar variety. Stud sets can match, or closely resemble, your cuff links. A tuxedo paired with a bow tie is considered appropri ate attire for the most formal weddings and special events. The black silk satin bow tie is the classic choice and a fail- safe whether you’re the groom, a guest of honor or simply someone attending a black-tie affair. On any given day, have fun mixing pocket square colors and folds with your sportcoats. You can even go bold dur - ing daytime weddings and fundraisers. But when it comes to the most formal events, there is nothing more classic than a white silk square in a presidential fold. Patent loafers and oxfords are a sure-fire hit for the most formal events. Or keep things low-key by choosing the styles in suede or polished leather.

is a medium spread collar.

SHIRT FRONT:

Pull off a timeless look with a smooth, slim-fit, bib-front shirt in a pique fabric with room for studs. Other clean looks are a shirt with no placket and concealed buttons, and a pleated front worn with studs. We most often prefer pique front.

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