When you’re planning your wedding, there’s a lot to keep in mind – venues, catering, guest lists – and somewhere in that mix is what you’ll be wearing on the big day. For many grooms, choosing the right wedding attire can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to expect, how to budget for your suit or tuxedo, and how to decide whether to rent or buy, so you can focus on enjoying the lead-up to your wedding.
Superior Service and Professionalism: What to Look For
When shopping for your wedding attire, you should expect to be treated with respect and professionalism. The process should be collaborative – tailors and consultants will want to learn about your wedding theme, the level of formality, and your personal style. These professionals should be able to advise you on whether a tuxedo or suit is more appropriate, and help you narrow down details like fabric, color, and accessories. If you’re not getting that one-of-a-kind experience, you may want to consider trying another clothier.
Remember that a proper fitting and consultation are about more than just measurements. It’s also about how you want to feel on your wedding day – confident, comfortable, and authentic to your own style.
Budgeting for Your Wedding Attire: Understanding What’s Included
Budgeting for a wedding suit or tuxedo can be tricky if you’re not sure what’s typically included. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Made-to-Measure or Off-the-Rack: Suits and tuxedos generally come in two categories. Off-the-rack options are pre-made and then altered to fit you. Made-to-measure suits start from a basic pattern and are adjusted to your specific measurements. Prices for made-to-measure suits generally start around $1,000 and can go up depending on the choice of fabric and level of customization.
Accessories: Beyond the suit or tuxedo, you’ll also need to budget for accessories – dress shirts, ties or bowties, pocket squares, belts or suspenders, and appropriate shoes. Sometimes, these are bundled into a wedding package, but often they’re separate purchases.
Tailoring and Alterations: Most reputable clothiers will include basic alterations in the price, such as sleeve or pant hem adjustments. Be sure to ask what’s covered so there are no surprises down the line. At Eastern Clothing, we make sure that every piece of your attire is perfectly fit to you.
Transparent Pricing: The best shopping experiences will be clear about what’s included and what’s extra – like custom linings or monogramming. Don’t hesitate to ask for a detailed breakdown. If they seem hesitant or evasive when it comes to itemizing, it may be time to move on.
Renting vs. Buying: Which Option is Right for You?
One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to rent or buy. Here’s how to weigh your options:
Renting
Renting is often the go-to for grooms who are planning a more formal wedding – like a black-tie event – and might not have another occasion to wear a tuxedo afterward. Rental packages typically include:
- Jacket and trousers
- Dress shirt
- Tie or bowtie
- Pocket square
- Optional vest or cummerbund
- Optional shoes
Rental prices can vary, but a complete package usually ranges from $200–$300. It’s convenient and stress-free, especially for those who don’t expect to reuse the outfit.
Buying
For grooms who want a suit or tuxedo they can wear again – perhaps for future formal events or as a versatile wardrobe staple – buying can be a smart choice. Purchasing your wedding attire allows for more customization, whether you want a traditional tuxedo or a modern suit that reflects your personal style.
While it’s a larger upfront investment, it pays off if you value having a well-fitting, high-quality garment you can use for years to come.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Make sure to double check with your clothier of choice, but here’s a checklist of what’s typically included when getting a wedding suit or tuxedo to get you started:
✔️ Consultation and Fitting: A thorough appointment where you discuss your style, get measured, and review options.
✔️ Tailoring and Alterations: Basic adjustments to ensure the suit or tuxedo fits properly.
✔️ Accessories: Many places offer ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks as part of a package or at an additional cost.
✔️ Final Fitting: A final check to make sure everything is perfect before the big day.
What’s usually not included? Special custom features like unique lining materials, monogramming, or high-end fabrics often come with an added fee. It’s wise to clarify these details upfront so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Here are a few tips to make the process smoother and ensure you’re happy with your final look:
Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to allow for fittings, adjustments, and any unexpected changes. Usually 4–6 months before your wedding is ideal. It may seem like a lot, but you’ll be grateful you gave yourself the extra padding.
Communicate Clearly: Be upfront about your budget, timeline, and preferences. Good professionals will work with you to find the best possible fit, and you won’t be doing any favors trying to shoot beyond the moon.
Ask Questions: Don’t be shy about asking exactly what’s included, how the final price is calculated, or how long the process will take. There’s no shame in wanting to know exactly what you are getting for your investment.
Try It On: Always do a final fitting before the wedding to ensure everything feels right. Discuss the best timeframe with your specific tailor to all for small adjustments. That final touch up can make a huge difference in comfort and confidence.
Making the Decision That’s Right for You
When you’re deciding between renting or buying, and comparing options, think about how you’ll feel on the day. Your wedding attire should make you feel your best – whether that’s a classic tuxedo or a sharp navy suit you’ll wear again for years.
Above all, remember that this process should feel special and fun. Don’t rush it, and don’t settle for something that doesn’t feel like you. With some thoughtful planning and the right questions, you’ll be ready to walk down the aisle looking and feeling your absolute best.