Buy A Tux!

Now that the season has finally turned to fall, there seems to be a lot of occasions where the dress calls for formal attire.  Fortunately men are not burdened with problem of coming up with a different gown for each event.  All we need is a nice tuxedo and we are good to go.  Typically, we can just rent a tuxedo but why rent when you can own?  With tuxedos coming in at a variety of price points, it seems to make more sense to buy a tux if you have a few events coming up in the near future.  A good well-kept tux will more than pay for itself for years to come.

I am a huge fan of Giorgio Armani.  I’ve always felt I’m really well put together whenever I slip on an Armani suit.   Even though my suit occasions have dwindled over the years, what better way to go formal than in an Armani tuxedo?  Dressed in one of these tuxes, who wouldn’t feel like a million bucks?  It’s as if I was a movie star walking the red carpet at the Oscars.  This elegant version is available at Saks Fifth Avenue.  At a price point of nearly $1795, this may be out of reach for many but it is a wise investment and the classic styling should hold up for years to come.  Moreover it’s Armani and comes in at the less costly for this brand. (I have to admit, I was able to purchase mine several years ago at a sample sale for about 20% of the cost.)

Another great brand to buy a tux is from Hugo Boss.   The Stars Glamour fit comes in at $895, a price that has not changed in the last 6 years. ,For $100 more, Boss also offers a slim fit with a wider lapel. A looking befitting any dapper James Bond without requiring the violence. This suit is also available at Neiman Marcus.  If you buy your tux online from Neiman Marcus, they will provide free shipping and basic alterations in a local store.  Quite convenient for the Washingtonian who has procrastinated and needs a suit right away.

For around $150, Nordstrom Rack offers tuxedo separates.  Offering up brands like Ben Sherman and Paisley and Gray. What’s nice is depending on availability you can mix and match have the option of various jacket styles along with the option of either pleated or flat front trousers. Combine that with the option of finding a closer fit in separates, you can keep tailoring to a minimum. If you don’t want separates, you can also snatch up some terrific finds from brands like Penguin at  under $250. Also consider Indochino and have your suit maid to measure.

With galas, balls and holidays just around the corner now may be the perfect time to snap up a tuxedo.  If you do don’t forget the suspenders, tie and cummerbund! Just stay away from the pre-tied bowtie if possible. Nothing is cooler than that loose bowtie look at the end of the night!  Until next time, Happy Shopping!