Ready to consider menswear? Here’s where to start!

When it comes to men’s formalwear, the possibilities are endless. What color should the tuxes be? What’s the difference between a tuxedo and a suit? Does the groom need to wear a different color? The choices can seem overwhelming, but worry not: DuBois is here to help! Customers are often amazed at how easy choosing menswear can be with the right team on their side!

Basic choices: color, cut, and style

When choosing menswear, the most important factors to consider are color, cut, and style: usually in that order. First, let’s explain the difference between a suit and a tuxedo. On a tuxedo, the lapel (the collar of the coat) is fully or partially made of satin, and the buttons are covered with cloth. In contrast, the lapel of a suit will be made of the same material as the rest of the coat, and the buttons are most often uncovered plastic. Both can be worn with or without a vest. The terms “suit” and “tux” are often used interchangeably: unless you have a strong preference for one or the other, color and fit are more important factors to consider.

The color of the men’s coats and pants will set the basis for their looks. It can be helpful to imagine your group photos while thinking about colors for their suits. You can choose a neutral tone, like gray or black, or a color, like navy or French blue. A colored suit or tux will add another dominant color to the scheme, while a neutral will create a backdrop off of which your accent colors can pop. This is a great opportunity to set the tone for your big day. Is your wedding refined, classic, and formal? A neutral tux color will give a more traditional feel to your menswear. Celebrating in the summer, and want to have some fun? A blue suit will be vibrant, and photograph well in the sunshine. Your DuBois consultant can help advise you on what may work best for you!

“Cut” is the last big consideration for your men’s suits or tuxes. “Cut” refers to the shape of the formalwear items themselves, and how they will fit on your men. DuBois offers suits and tuxes in modern fit, slim fit, and ultra slim fit styles. The difference in these different fits is most evident in how the pants will look. Slim fit pants will taper down to the bottom, and will rest on top of the men’s shoes. Ultra slim fit pants will be narrow at the bottom, as well as slim through the thighs and hips. Modern fit pants will be the loosest option: modern fit pants will fall straight down from the waist, and fall wider around the shoes. Confused? Don’t worry, we have photos in our stores to illustrate the differences! Slim fit is our most highly recommended cut option.. Slim fit will give your men a tailored look while still ensuring that everyone is comfortable. Be aware that “cut” is independent of sizing. We have each cut in a wide range of sizes, and will make sure that everyone looks the best they can in any style!

Before your appointment:

Before you come into the store, it is very helpful to have an idea of what you are looking for for your wedding party. You can browse style options on the newly redesigned DuBois website. Pinterest is another great source of images and inspiration, as well as wedding magazines, photographer websites, and even friends’ wedding photos! Images you find do not have to portray exactly what you want: if you can collect some ideas you like, DuBois associates can help capture the feeling while still creating something uniquely you!

Before you look at tuxes, it is also ideal to have your bridesmaids dresses chosen. If you can bring in a swatch of your bridesmaids fabric, or even a whole dress, it makes it very easy to see how everything will look together. Often times groomsmen ties will complement the bridesmaids’ colors, and the groom’s tie will be white or ivory to match the bride’s dress. Although that formula is not required, it’s an easy way to coordinate your wedding party while defining people’s roles. Your bridesmaid dresses will make up one large swatch of color in your party, and the color of the men’s suits or tuxes will be the other dominant tone. Accent colors will provide variety, contrast, and balance.

From casual to classic, DuBois will make sure your whole wedding party is looking great! Our professional staff is happy to answer any questions you have and will guide you in the right direction for all of your styling needs.

Call ahead to schedule an appointment, or just stop in!

When you are ready for menswear, DuBois Formalwear will be ready for you!