“Once they pick those three things…in just five minutes, they’ve narrowed their choices,” Marquis says.
Candice Blindauer, owner and manager of Candice’s Boutique and Formal Wear, also in Springfield, says, “The first thing I find out is what colors the bridesmaids are wearing and what type of gown the bride is wearing. A lot of times, they want to match the colors of bridesmaids’ dresses.
“Then, I’d ask what time of day and what type of wedding: very formal evening; formal evening; very formal daytime; semi-formal daytime.”
Following the traditional rules, the type of wedding determines how closely the colors and cuts match for each member of the wedding party’s tuxedo.
“The more formal the wedding, the more they should match the groom,” Blindauer says.
Experts agree that choosing a flattering style for the groom is most important. While every store has a different method of starting the decision-making process, the experts say there are certain style trends.
More men are renting longer length jackets with three or four buttons (instead of the standard two) and full-back (instead of cut-out at the back) vests. At Gingiss, Marquis sees a lot of silver and gold as an accent color. At Candice’s, Blindauer says she rents a lot of the full-back vests in bright colors and notes the trend is getting away from cummerbunds.
Prices vary, but many stores offer discounts such as free tuxedos with a certain number of rentals. One expert estimates most groomsmen pay approximately $100 for tuxedo and shoes.
“There aren’t many mistakes a guy can make besides waiting too long to get fitted and not coming in for his final fitting,” Marquis says.
Blindauer offers customers one last word of advice.
“You definitely don’t want to do this on the Internet,” Blindauer says. “It’s crazy because local tuxedo stores have their reputations on the line. Internet companies never see you again.”