Should you go for the $150 rental tuxedo, or should you invest the $650+ in a custom tuxedo made just for you?
In short: It depends.
There are pros and cons to both sides of the coin, and there are many variables to take into account before deciding which route is right for you.
- If you’re going to prom, rent a tuxedo. You’re still growing and you’ll probably want to match your date in something you won’t necessarily wear again.
- If you’re in a coordinated wedding party, rent a tuxedo. You’ll need to match the other groomsmen and possibly the bridesmaid’s colors. The rental process is fairly quick and painless and the helpful folks at your local formal vendor can make it easy as cake. Assuming cake is really easy. I don’t bake much.
- If you’re a guy that has quit growing and attends a fair amount of black tie formal functions, investing in a new tuxedo made for you may set you back a pretty penny at first, but should pay off over time.
WHEN TO RENT
1. Affordable
The average cost to rent a tuxedo is $100-$175. If you’re someone that only sees himself in black tie once in a blue moon, this is the more logical way to go.
2. Matching Tux
Renting is usually necessary if you need to match a prom date or wedding party, even if your own a tuxedo—especially when a specific color or style is required.
3. Room to Grow
If you’re still growing either vertically or horizontally, you should probably rent. No use investing in something you can only wear once.
WHEN TO OWN
1. Value
If you attend at least one black tie event a year buying is definitely the way to go, as rental prices will add up over time and you’ll actually save money (and time and hassle) in the long run.
2. Spontaneity
Owning your own tuxedo means you can attend black tie affairs with less notice and planning.
3. Made to Measure
If you buy a tuxedo, you have the option of having it made-to-measure. With new emphasis on sizing and correct fit, you CAN rent a tuxedo that fits you really well, but nothing quite beats having something made especially for you. Men with builds that don’t typically accommodate off-the rack sizing and proportions (such as Tall & Muscular, Tall & Slender, Heavyset, or gentlemen with a Short Stature) would greatly benefit from having a tuxedo made bespoke to them.
Let your lifestyle, budget, timeline, and sartorial needs decide whether it makes sense for you to rent or buy. Either way, be a gentleman in your tuxedo. Manners and etiquette are the most powerful accessories of them all.
YOU’VE FOUND THE RIGHT PERSON,
WE’LL HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT TUXEDO
No matter the style of your wedding or event, we’ll help you build the perfect look.
THE BACHELOR PARTY STARTS HERE
An afternoon or evening in our private showroom is the perfect way to kick off wedding festivities. Hang out in hidden poker rooms, watch the game and enjoy your favorite drinks while getting measured. Our modern bespoke approach combines old world technique with the latest 3D body scanning technology, ensuring your garments fit you perfectly.
