Renting Formal Wear and Tuxedoes

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Renting formal wear and tuxedoes is a right of passage for many men. Whether it is for prom, homecoming, a wedding, or other special event, this process can be as smooth or as difficult as you make it. Knowing what you are looking for and keeping track of all rented items can be a challenge, but cheaper than purchasing a full suit or tux.

A bowtie

Renting Formal Wear and Tuxedoes: Before Renting

Before you even step foot into a rental shop, you should know a few things. First of all, do you need to match anyone? Will a date or significant other be expecting your tie to be a certain color? Knowing how formal you should be can make a significant difference in what kind of tuxedo you rent. Tails or no tails, or whether wearing a colored shirt is acceptable or not should be found out before the event in question.

Additionally, there are several styles of formal wear to choose from. As mentioned above, tails versus no tails is a big question when it comes to tuxedo renting. Some people like the look of a zoot-suit, while others may prefer a long-waisted coat and top hat. If you are not sure about your personal style, check out some catalogs, magazines, and websites for photos of formal wear and tuxedoes that you think will look good on your body type and will suit your personality.

Finally, make sure to check advertisements and specials. For bridal party members, this is especially important. Many rental places offer free or reduced tuxes for the groom and other party members if a certain number is rented. This can significantly cut costs. Or, some area rental stores may offer discounts at prom or for charity events. Keeping an eye on sales flyers and checking in-store offers can help you get the most for your dollar.

During the Rental Process

Renting formal wear and tuxedoes is not complicated once you know the price and style. However, a few more tips can make sure the fit of your rental is the best possible.

  • Get measured by the fitting attendant. Even if you think you are a 34x36 inch pants size, get measured anyway. Formal wear has a tendency to sit on the body at different places than everyday clothing, making those measurements different.
  • Bring formal socks. Athletic and everyday socks are usually thick cotton, but formal socks are much thinner. While rented shoes can be uncomfortable, having them fit properly can help. Slipping heels can cause blisters, and too tight shoes can make for smashed toes.
  • Wear layers. Because your shoulders need to fit snugly into a suit or tux coat, but still be mobile, do not wear thick sweatshirts or sweaters. Wearing a lightweight undershirt can ensure a proper measurement.
  • Put down a deposit on your rental if you cannot pay in full that day. Make sure you get a receipt. Stores are much less likely to lose or forget a rental when money has all ready been put down on the item.
  • Have your pickup day and time earlier than you need to have your rental. If you pick up your rental an hour or two before the event, chances are, you cannot get anything changed or fixed if it does not work. However, picking up rentals the day before or early morning can allow time for hems to be shortened and shoes to be exchanged.

After Renting

After you rent your formal wear or tuxedo, write down your pickup day and time. Calling a few days before pickup to confirm your reservation is never a bad idea. When you go to get your rental, try it on in the store. Sometimes stores have tailors or spare coats, cufflinks, or shoes if the ones you ordered do not fit. Double check the time you are to return your rental, and get a list of items that came with it.

After your event, put all of your rented formal wear together in one place. Keep track of smaller items like ties and cufflinks in plastic bags. If you are unable to return the rental, have a responsible person lined up to return the items for you. Once they are returned, get a signed receipt from the store clerk, saying you returned all items.


 


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