Suit or Tuxedo: How to Choose One & Why
When choosing between a suit or tuxedo for your wedding day, the bride (and/or groom) can feel overwhelmed. To help you make a confident decision, we’re here to give you the lowdown on how the two outfit options differ. Plus, learn about the factors that you should take into consideration that may impact your decision.
What is a Suit?
A suit is made of the same materials throughout, from the jacket to the lapel and pants. It usually has bone, plastic or fabric-covered buttons. It can be worn with a variety of dress shirts, in a solid color or pattern. A number of shoes are acceptable for this style, including loafers, oxfords or slip-on shoes. Highly versatile in terms of accessories, a suit is easy to dress up or down based on your preference. Consider a bow tie with suspenders, or a long tie with a vest. Depending on the season, some grooms opt to wear a long sleeve shirt with a tie or bow tie, and go without a suit jacket.
What is a Tuxedo?
Traditional tuxedos consist of satin details, including satin-faced lapels, satin buttons and a satin side-stripe down the pant leg. Modern tuxedos may limit satin details to a thin trim on the lapels and a skinny stripe down the pant leg.. A tux is worn with white shirts that have either a wing collar or a turndown collar. Typically it is paired with black patent shoes. In terms of accessories, they are all quite formal. Options include a cummerbund, waistcoat, and suspenders with a self-tied bow tie. Or consider a long tie with a high-stance vest.
Things to Consider
When considering whether to wear a suit or tuxedo, consider the following factors:
The time of day – A suit is more casual and is appropriate for any time of day, from morning to evening. A tuxedo is typically reserved for evening events.
Your wedding theme – For a more casual event, such as a brunch wedding or an early afternoon wedding, opt for a traditional suit . Considered formal wear, a tuxedo is suitable for a more luxe event, like a black-tie wedding.
Your personal preference – When you dress outside of your comfort zone it can be quite noticeable to guests. We suggest altering your suit or tuxedo by dressing it up or down with accessories to align with your personal style.
Buy or Rent?
When choosing a suit or tuxedo you will have the option to rent or buy. A three-piece suit will average between $300 to $800. Generally a tuxedo will be more expensive than a suit. Costing around $700 to $1000 for pants and a jacket. Note that depending on the need for alterations, it can cost more.
First, you will have to consider your budget. A suit being much cheaper, it is an easy choice if you have limited funds. If you would have preferred a tux but cannot afford one, opt for a dark colored suit for a more formal look.
Second, you should consider fit. If your goal is to have a perfect fit, you will want to buy. You can not alter rentals, so the standard size that fits you is all will have to work with. If you want to look and feel your very best, buying a tailor-made suit or tux is the way to go.
Lastly, you should consider how many times you will have the opportunity to wear what you buy. For most people, a tux is rarely worn. A suit on the other hand can be worn for numerous occasions, and may be well worth the investment.
One great way to determine the best choice between a suit or a tux is to visit your venue. You can book a tour of Pine Lake Ranch via our website! Getting a feel for the space and some ideas on how you can decorate will make it easier to know what type of event you will be hosting. Reach out today with any questions!