Fortunately, clothing choices for the groom and his groomsmen have returned to the classic styles of the past, which make these men look wonderful! The groom's suit or tuxedo should vary slightly from his attendants' so that he stands apart from them, but the rest of the group should be identically dressed.

The formality of the wedding, the time of day or evening, the number of bridesmaids and the bride's gown all play a role in determining the apparel of the groom and his groomsmen.

For an informal wedding, where the bride wears a short dress or suit, the men may wear black, dark blue or dark gray business suits with white shirts and gray or gray and white striped ties. For a daytime summer wedding, dark blazers worn with white or gray trousers are always appropriate. For a formal white-tie or black-tie evening wedding, full dress or tails is expected, including black tailcoat with white pique' waistcoats and bow tie, white shirt with a wing collar, studs and cuff links. Top hats and white gloves may also be worn.

Shoes should be plain, undecorated and black, and worn with black dress socks. They should be unscuffed and polished. Black patent leather shoes are worn for a black-tie or white-tie evening wedding.

Be sure to check for a reputable store for your tuxedo rentals and reserve your tuxedos several weeks before the wedding. Out of town attendants can send their measurements to you or the store and they can be measured at any tuxedo store where they live. Be sure they know the brand name and style number of the tuxedo you've chosen for them to wear.

When you rent your tuxedos, you will generally receive the pants, jacket, shirt, tie, vest or cumberbund for a package price. Shoes, top hats and gloves can be rented for an extra fee.

It doesn't hurt to check on special promotions or discounts that may be available. Oftentimes, the groom's tuxedo will be free or discounted with a certain number of paid rentals for the rest of the wedding party.

To allow for last minute alterations that may be needed, have the groom, groomsmen, ushers and fathers pick up their tuxedos a few days before the wedding.

It is usually best to delegate one person to be in charge of the tuxedo returns. Check with the store about their return policy.

Copyright © 2008, Crystal Rose