Fashion
Guide to Black Tie
BOSTON, MA, February
13, 2004 - “Black
Tie” is not an unfamiliar term in today’s party
planning scene. So before you rent or buy a tuxedo, the first
questions you should ask are, what
do I wear when the invitation says ”black tie,” how
do I select the right shop for tuxedos, and
should I buy or rent my tuxedo?
Although the clothing industry is
trendy, there are some definite rules. Mr. Bill Tzizik,
CEO, Classic Tuxedo, Inc. 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 formally. “White tie” requires you to dress
in evening tails. White tie is the ultimate in formal
dress for men.”
To achieve a
look that's right for you and to assure that renting or purchasing
your formalwear
is not a worry, patronize a respectable shop two
to three months prior to the event. Companies that are active
within a professional organization, are voted "Best
of" by
consumers and local magazines, and that offer in-store inventory
as opposed to just fabric swatches are far more likely to offer
good service, quality products and reliability. Once you
find a reputable shop, you need to ask yourself whether you
should rent or buy a tuxedo and how much can you spend?
If
you will wear a tuxedo 2 to 3 times a year, it is cost effective
to purchase your own tuxedo. Tuxedos can be purchased
in “packages” which
include a tuxedo, formal trouser, shirt, accessory/neckwear
and jewelry with prices from about $299. Formal items can
also be purchased a la carte. But for the ultimate tux purchase,
experience the old-time customer service of being individually
fitted with a custom tuxedo and shirt. Custom made clothing
allows the
customers to choose their fabric and style of garment. A custom
shirt gives the buyer the opportunity to choose the fabric
and type of collar and cuff. Tuxedos can be made in either
a notch or peak lapel, with whatever button styling the customer
prefers. Hand measured to the customers' styling specifications,
tuxedos by Matteo Maas are available at retailers like Classic
Tuxedo. They're made of a high grade, super 120 wool for
a silky soft, light- weight feel. And unlike the shiny satin
found on tuxedo jacket lapels and leg braid, the Matteo Maas
has a material called grosgrain, a silk like fabric with crosswise
ribs. The buttons are also covered in grosgrain for a luxurious
look. The personal touch and custom fit provide a super-stylish
look.
If you choose to rent a tuxedo,
exclusive rental packages start from about $129.99 or items
can be rented separately. Either
way, it's easy to put together a look that's simply stylish.
Black tuxedos are still the favorite color choice. Multi-buttton
styles with single-breasted closures and satin notch lapel
designs from designers like Monsieur Givenchy are a popular
trend. Add a formal laydown or wing collar shirt, fullback,
high-button front vest, and neckwear. Bow ties are still the
most traditional neckwear but you can also choose The Windsor
tie, a wide necktie worn in a loose bow. Get decked out in
a tuxedo for your next party and show your impeccable flair
for formalwear.
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www.classictuxedo.com
