Classic Tuxedo - Formalwear, Black Tie for Weddings, Black Tie Events, Prom

Become Style Savvy
Tuxedo Terms for Grooms

Boston, MA, August 15, 2003 - A lot of time goes into planning the perfect wedding. Everyone's focus tends to lean toward the bride but the groom and his attire is just as important. Selecting the right men's formalwear for your special day is an educational experience. Mr. Bill Tzizik, President, Classic Tuxedo, recommends that the bride and groom visit their local tuxedo specialist at least 2 to 3 months prior to the big day. The season of the year, time of day of the wedding and the desired formality of the event will affect the men's attire selection.

“ Black Tie” is not an unfamiliar term in today’s party planning scene so you may decide to add “Black Tie Optional,” “Black Tie Preferred,” “Black Tie Invited,” or simply “Black Tie” to your wedding invitation. Although the clothing industry is trendy, there are some definite rules. Bill Tzizik, President of Classic Tuxedo, suggests these guidelines: “If an invitation reads “Black Tie Optional” or “Black Tie Invited,” you can expect a nice affair and there will be people attending in tuxedos. Your host is leaving it up to you to dress formally or not. If your invitation reads “Black Tie Preferred,” your host is suggesting that you dress formal and hoping you do, but you can make that decision and he won’t be offended if you don’t. Any invitation that has the words “Black Tie" requires you to dress formal. “White Tie” requires you to dress in evening tails. White Tie is the ultimate in formal dress for men.”

Listed below are some formalwear terms. These terms will help you when making your formalwear selection. A reputable men's specialist should know these terms and will offer recommendations in selecting the right formalwear for your wedding day.

Tuxedos
· Full dress (tailcoats)
· Cutaway/Stroller
· Single or double-breasted closures
· Multi-button closures

Lapels and Collars
· Notch Lapel
· Peak Lapel
· Shawl Collar
· Grosgrain fabric vs. satin collar
· Self-top collar vs. satin collar

Shirts
· Wing Collar
· Laydown Collar
· Banded Collar
· Pleated front
· Non-pleated front

Formal Accessories
· Band bow tie
· Ascot
· Windsor tie
· Button cover
· Fullback vests
· Cummerbunds
· Formal shoes
· Formal jewelry: Studs & cuff links
· Top hats, canes and gloves
· Pocket squares

When the groom and his attendants familiarize themselves with the terminology and type of dress expected for the day, becoming style savvy is easy and fun.

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