Tuxedo Trends

We've seen many trends come and go over the years, and we like to know what's popular and what people are looking for in a tuxedo or suit for their wedding. Here are a couple different trends that we have been seeing from last year into now:

1. Navy Tuxedos

We've seen a lot of different color tuxedos rising in popularity but navy is the "it" color of 2016. Navy breaks away from the standard traditional black tuxedo but gives you more option than just doing a grey tuxedo or suit. It still looks very sleek and nice on every groom or groomsman without being too much. 

2. Suits

We have been getting a lot of questions about suits as of late. A suit is technically "less formal" than a tuxedo but that doesn't mean it won't look just as good. Some of our customers have been looking for a more "casual" look for their wedding party and decide to rent a suit over a tuxedo. The suits come in varying colors but we are typically asked the most about grey and tan suits.

3. Suspenders

Continuing on with the more "casual" look, our next big trend is suspenders. We have seen varying ways of weddings channeling this trend; some weddings will not do coats, some weddings will order colored suspenders to macth the bridesmaids' dresses, some weddings may pair them with long ties instead of bow ties, etc. We see a lot more of this with summer weddings who don't want their groomsman to get too hot during the  ceremony. Having suspenders is a good way of dressing up the oufit if you have decided against doing tuxedo or suit coats for the groomsmen. 

4.Colored Tuxedos with a Black Lapel

This is a trend something that is just starting off. I have had a couple different people ask me if we have a colored tuxedo with a black lapel. I think this will be something that someone would like if they really want to stand out. It still looks classy and pushes the envelope even further than just doing a standard black tux. We will be able to rent out a couple of colored tuxedos for Spring and we will see how everyone likes it but as of now we have had people asking about it.

If you are not sure what you want to do for your own wedding party, maybe one of these trends can give you an idea. Tell us which one is your favorite!

Helpful Tips: Prepping for Prom

The months are going by quickly and before you know it, it will be prom time. A lot of the guys that we see who are going to prom don't really know what they want to wear and aren't sure when they should come in to look at styles, but that's where we come in. Here is a guide for any of you who are planning on going to prom or for those of you who know someone who is attending.

1. You don't have to wait last minute to pick out your tuxedo.

Honestly there is no such thing as too early. The prom months are also the height of wedding season for us, so if you choose styles early you end up beating the rush. That does not mean that you will be unable to change styles later. A lot of the guys we work with during prom are going with a date and they usually want to match their vest and tie to her dress color. If she does not have her dress yet, you can pick out your tuxedo and choose a vest and tie color at a later time. This way you have already been measured and have the majority of your styles so that we can just order your garments right away and you can just pick your colors and be done with it. This brings me to my next point.

2. Bring a swatch.

If your intention is to match the colors of her dress as closely as possible, then bring a piece of the dress. It does not have to be a swatch exactly; it could be just a strap of the dress or even a tiny piece of fabric. We have a lot of the guys during prom who will have a picture of the dress on their phone when they come into the store but you have to be aware that the color will look different on camera than in person. Don't get me wrong, this approach can also work but if you want the colors to be exact we will need to see the color of the fabric. Bring your date with you to pick out the color if need be, that way you can both find a good color match that you agree on.

3. Yes, we can do last minute orders.

Every year we have guys come in just days before their proms. Sometimes they get invited last minute or decide later on that they want to attend and that is completely fine. We do this every year thus far and we will make sure you get the look you want for prom no matter when you come in. Of course if you don't have to come in last minute we would still like for you to come early.

4. Pick what you like.

When the guys from prom come into our store, they are not always sure of what they want. That's ok because we go over the styles and fits of the tuxedos with you when you come in. We want you to be happy with how you look when you go to prom. So if you aren't sure of what look you are going for just be aware that we go over everything with you when you come in.

5. We have a fitting for a reason.

Before you leave the store with your tuxedo we are going to have you try everything on. This is because we want to make sure everything fits correctly and we need time to get replacements if necessary. When you get measured for your tuxedo at your first fitting we may even have you try garments on. This way we know for a fact that your tuxedo will fit you before the actual tuxedo is in the store. It makes your second fitting a lot quicker and smoother so you can be in and out of the store knowing everything fits you well.

6. Have fun.

It's your prom. Relax, have fun, if you are not comepletely sure about what you need to do to pick out your tuxedo we will walk you through it. 

Helpful Tips: Out of town Groomsmen

Almost every wedding that comes in has at least one person in their wedding party that is out of town/state. National, big chain stores have storefronts across the US, in almost every state where your guys can go to for their measurements and picking up their tuxedo.... but how do we take care of that only having one store? We are a part of the National Fit Program. In short that means your groomsmen can go to a local formal wear shop in their area to get measured. It’s a great program that simplifies the whole process. They can go to www.tuxedofit.com and enter their zip code to find a local, reliable tuxedo shop that offers FREE courtesy measurements. A form is located on our website under “Out of Town Measurements” that your groomsmen may print out and take with them to ensure that all of the proper measurements are taken. They can then call, fax, email or submit their measurements on www.gerardtuxedo.com. You want to make sure you include your CORRECT height and weight on the form because we do use that to check over the measurements and make any changes we see necessary. And you want to alert us (about two weeks before pick up) if you have lost or gained weight, so we can order the new garments and have them in when you come instead of  you having to come back again for the replacements. Any last minute alterations can be done here at the store and it only takes about 5-10 minutes.

Out of town measurements that we need:

-Height

-Weight

-Coat

-Neck

-Sleeve

-Chest

-Overarm

-Waist

-Hip

-Shoe

**It is important that we get all of these measurements because they all play a part in fitting a different section of the tuxedo.**

Prefered Vendors

Over the years we have established many relationships with a ton of reliable vendors. Here are some of our tried and true favorites. 

WEDDING:
Music: Salvador Cid (DJ Salsa Sal)
Sal has been in the DJ business for over 20 years. He's fluent in both English and Spanish. He provides 5 hours of non-stop music (American and Latin) with light background music during cocktail hour and dinner. He has professional equipment, is always properly attired and is the first to arrive and the last to leave!
Contact: 
Phone: 734.231.5859
E-mail: djsal1@hotmail.com

Floral & Linen: Alexandra Younger (One Enchanted Evening)
Lexi truly has a way with flower and table arrangements and a real eye for beauty. She can do any style in the colors you come up with, is very flexible, and can work within your budget. 
Contact:
Phone: 248.685.9281
E-mail: alexandra@oneenchantedeve.com
Website: www.oneenchantedeve.com

Dresses: Diane Ault (Diane's Dream Brides)
Diane’s is truly a one stop shop. They have brides, bridesmaids, mother of bride/groom, and flower girl dresses. They also have a seamstress on site. They can dye your dress or shoes any color you want, and offer wedding gown preservation. 
Contact:
Website: www.dianesdreambrides.com
Phone: 734.427.9033

Limousines: Millennium Limos
They have a HUGE selection of limos, and party buses including the newest and cleanest options available. They offer reliable, luxury transportation 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 
Contact: 
Phone: 248.478.3600
Website: www.limogiant.com

Photography: Amanda Williams (Amanda Williams Photography)
She LOVES her job. Taking pictures and working with her clients is her favorite. We love her work, but you need to see for yourself just how breathtaking her pictures are. We have a link to her website below.
Contact:
E-mail: Photographeramandawilliams.mi@gmail.com 
Website: www.amandawilliamsphotography.com

Makeup: Sylvia Farmer (Bridal Beauty Detroit)
One stop beauty salon for your hair and makeup. 
Contact:Phone: 734.697.8529
Website:www.bridalbeautydetroit.com


OTHERS:
Doggy Day Care: Jennifer Thompson (4 Legged Friends)
Jennifer does not only take care of dogs; they also allow cats. They're one of the only facilities where they keep a full staff on all night and also offer training for dogs of any age. All employees have a real love and compassion for your pets. 
Contact:Phone: 734.522.7297
Fax: 734.522.4750
E-mail: fourleggedfriends@ymail.com
Website: www.4-leggedfriendsdaycare.net

Dry Cleaners: Johns Cleaners
Contact:
Phone: 734.427.4880

Vape Shop: Stacy Addams’s (Sycodrops Vape Shop)
There are absolutely no tobacco products in this store. They have been around since the pioneering of the vaping era. Are VERY knowledgeable in every aspect of the business. They will work with you to find exactly what you need, and teach you how to use it. Can do custom orders. 
Contact:Phone: 734.634.1208
Website: www.sycodrops.com

February Promotion

FEBRUARY PROMOTION

2 Free Tux Rentals!!!

When you have 13 or more in your wedding party!

-Classic Styles on special for $99.99*

-Modern styles on special for $120.00*

-Slim-Fit &Allure on special for $140.00*

Rentals include coat, pant, shirt, vest & tie, studs & cuff links.*

Must register by February 29th 2016*

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Need Groomsmen's gifts? Order through us and get 20% off your whole order, with FREE personalization!

Helpful Tips: Buying Vs Renting a Tuxedo

We are often asked by our customers if they should buy or rent a tuxedo. Some go to events, some are attending a wedding, sometimes we have a groom who is thinking about buying his own tuxedo but a lot of our customers are not sure if it is worth it. We can give you our professional opinion about when it is better to rent or buy your own tuxedo.

The first reason to buy your own tuxedo is if you want it to fit a very specific way. We will do minor alterations such as coat sleeve length and pant length and if a new size in a garment is needed we will order a new size, but we are NOT a tailor. We typically do not do anything more major than tapering the coat and it is very rare that we have to do this. The reason for this is because we need these garments to fit a range of people with different body types so altering garments too often would wear them out and make them unable to be rented. If you buy your own tuxedo and have it altered to your liking you will never have to worry about getting it altered again, you will be comfortable, and you may not need to even rent a tuxedo again.

The second reason that you may want to buy your own tuxedo is if you frequently go to events or weddings. Instead of having to get measured every single time and picking up the tuxedo everytime, you can get measured once and we'll order the tuxedo in and you'll be set. We have a good number of repeat customers who go to yearly events who eventually decided to just buy their own tuxedo instead. The tuxedo ends up paying for itself the first couple times that you have to wear it. Even if you buy your own tuxedo you can still rent a different color vest and tie if you want to mix it up each year instead of wearing the same thing. Also, you should only purchase your tuxedo if you are attending a wedding and not if you are in the wedding party. The bride and groom will want a very specific style that you may not like later on in the future, so if you rent you will not have to worry about having to keep it.

We sometimes have grooms ask us if they should buy a tuxedo or rent one for their wedding, but the answer is just going to depend on what you are looking for. Certain tuxedos that we carry are not for purchase because they are still needed for rentals and they are no longer being made, so in that case you would have to rent. The other coats that are available for purchase will range in price so it will also depend on how much you are willing to spend. Sometimes a groom is looking for a very specific style that we may not rent, but it is possible that we may have it for purchase. Regardless, just remember that it is your day and that you should be happy with what you are wearing.

Renting a tuxedo is typically best for members of a wedding party, for prom, for one time events. It would also be beneficial for younger kids who are still growing as well as adults who may fluctuate in weight because we can do minor alterations and also provide replacement garments. This way they will not be stuck with garments that do not fit.

If you are interested in purchasing a tuxedo, you are able to do so through us and we have a nice selection of styles you can choose from. Just be aware that not all of the tuxedos that we can sell for purchase will be the exact same styles that we rent, since they have stopped making certain styles. We also have a nice selection to choose from if you decide that renting is best for you.

Helpful Tips: How to Measure

A big portion of the weddings that we work with have a number of out of town people who cannot be measured in our store. Even some of our repeat customers are from out of state and we have even worked with people from out of country. We always suggest going on to Tuxedofit.com for these clients, because it shows them where they can get measured in their area and they can just email, call, or fax the measurements to us. Our clients do not have to be measured in our store to be able to rent garments from us. We occasionally get asked if certain clients can be measured at home and that is no problem.

Having general knowledge on how measurements are taken will make you become more aware if your measurements look odd if someone else has measured you, regardless if it is a friend or another tuxedo shop. The measurements that we take are over arm, chest, waist, hip, neck, sleeve, out seam, coat size and shoe size. We also like knowing your approximate height and weight because it helps us determine the accuracy of out of town measurements as well as our own measurements. This video will explain how each measurement is taken if you are curious or would like someone you know to do it for you.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/13299761373174052/

The only measurement that was not mentioned was the hip measurement. This is done simply by measuring over the fullest part of the hips. This helps to determine the pant size that will be most comfortable for you, because your waist may fit into the pant but if your hips do not, it will not be comfortable.

We try to have customers try on garments if they are in between sizes after we are done with the measurements. So if you are out of town and feel like you are in between sizes, ask if you can try something on, because there is nothing wrong with double checking. We suggest going to someone who has experience with measuring but if you have to do it at home you will know how.

Helpful Tips: Men's Attire Guide

Black tie, white tie, formal, semi-formal, Casual; Hitting the right note with attire can be confusing. Here are the details of how to dress appropriately for any occasion:

White Tie: The most formal

Formal attire does not mean suits and ties! It is a substantially higher dress code, requiring clothes that most men don’t own.

-Black dress coat (tailcoat) and matching tuxedo pants with a satin stripe

-White wing-collared shirt with pleats

-Shirt studs and cufflinks

-White vest & White Bowtie

-White gloves

-Black patent leather shoes

Black Tie: Semi-formal

Don’t let the diminutive phrasing fool you — semi-formal attire is still the strictest dress code most of us will wear in our lives.

-Tuxedo, most common is black but feel free to change it up with a grey, or navy

-White dress shirt, laydown or wing-tip collar

-Shirt studs and cufflinks

-Vest and tie. Can be a bowtie or long tie. Most common is a matching black set but subdued colors are acceptable. (Think conservative; navy, charcoal, dark purple)

-Black patent leather shoes.

Black Tie Optional:

-Follow all black tie rules unless you cannot get a tuxedo, then a black, 3 piece suit and conservative tie will be acceptable.

Business formal:

-Dark business suit

-Dress shirt

-Matching vest (optional)

-Long tie

-Leather dress shoes
*Always check and follow your companies dress code*

Business casual: Dressy Casual

-Sport coat or blazer with slacks or khakis

-Dress shirt, casual button-down shirt, open-collar or polo shirt

-Ties are optional

-Dress shoes or loafers

*Always check and follow your companies dress code*

Casual: Laid back

A “casual attire” invitation is mostly open ended, but there is still the expectation of dressing up for a social event.

-Khakis or good jeans (clean, no holes)

-Cargo or Bermuda shorts—depending on occasion and climate

-Plain T-shirt (no slogans), polo shirt

-Casual button-down shirt and/or sweater

-Loafers or sneakers 

Auto Show Charity Preview 2016

We had a wonderful time working with all of our customers for the Auto Show Charity Preview this year. We got to see some repeat customers as well as a lot of new faces. We have a special promotion specifically for the Auto Show Charity Preview every year and we love to see new faces. This year we doubled our orders and met a lot of great people. If you need a tuxedo next year or know someone who does, send them our way. We also want to thank all of our customers who rented from us this year. We couldn't have had a successful Charity Preview without all of you.

Helpful Tips: Do I Really Need To Try On My Tuxedo?

We have had customers ask us if it is really necessary to try on their tuxedo even when they were measured prior to it arriving in our store. In short, yes it is still extremely important to try it on and there are a couple of reasons why.

Firstly, measurements are not exact. Measurements give a good idea of the sizing and most of the time they're good but everyone has a different body type and that can change how some garments will fit on certain people. We will take the time to have you try on garments if you are in between sizes, but we do not always have the exact garments in store. If you are unable to get measured at our store, take the time to go to a reputable tuxedo shop or tailor. Also make sure to send us your correct height and weight because it helps to perfect your fit. This brings me to my next point.

Everything is going to fit differently than what you're used to. The tuxedo coats come in different fits and most of our customers have never worn a tuxedo coat before. When you try on your tuxedo, we explain how it is supposed to fit you and then make sure that you are also comfortable with the fit as well. We want you to look good but we also want to accommodate for your comfort.

Lastly, if you need replacement garments we need time to get them ordered and into the store. We want everyone who rents from us to look good in what they are wearing, so we do not want anyone going to any wedding or event in ill-fitting garments. That's why you should always come to try on your tuxedo on your scheduled pick up date so that we have time to get replacements if necessary.

Always make the time to try on your tuxedo because the sooner you try it on the easier your fitting will be. 

Helpful Tips: What do people normally wear at a wedding?

A lot of the new weddings that come into our store are usually unsure of what they want the guys to wear. What does the groom normally wear? What about the groomsman, dads, ring bearers, or ushers? We hear these questions all the time and the answers are very simple.

The first thing to know is that everyone normally wears the exact same tuxedo. The color of the tuxedo does not matter; we have seen this in every color tuxedo that we carry. The variation usually doesn't come in until the vest and tie colors are chosen.

We have been seeing a lot of people choosing the same color vest as their tuxedo to create the three piece look and then doing a different color tie. Either way, the groom will normally wear an ivory or white tie to match his bride and the groomsmen will match the color of the bridesmaids' dresses with their ties. The bestman will either match the bridesmaids or the maid of honor. If there are ushers, they normally wear the same thing as the groomsmen so they do not feel as if they have a lesser role in the wedding. The fathers will normally wear the same tuxedo as everyone else in the wedding party but it will be paired with a neutral vest and tie. The reason for this is because they will not clash with the mothers' dress colors and they will still stand out as honorary figures. We see the fathers wearing colors such as black, charcoal, or silver. The ring bearers will either match the groom and be a mini groom or they will match the groomsmen.

Of course we have seen a number of different variations of this, but this would be considered the "norm" of what most people end up picking out for their wedding. If you want to keep it simple and you are not sure what you want for your wedding, this would be a good way to go. Just remember that it is your day and that you should get exactly what you want.

Helpful Tips: Losing Weight for the Wedding

We get quite a few questions about what the guys in a wedding party should do if they are losing weight beforehand. When should they get measured? Should they wait until it is closer to the date of the wedding? Well there's a very simple answer.

You should never put off getting measured. The reason being is that we want to get the tuxedos reserved for the wedding ahead of time, especially if the wedding date falls into the busy season. You would want to still get measured as soon as possible, but you would want to also get remeasured about a month before the wedding if you feel like there is a significant difference in your weight. This way we will already have an order for you and it will be easier to change sizes if necessary.

Getting remeasured doesn't take very long at all and this also works for any out of town groomsmen that may be losing weight as well. We have had people in the past who had forgotten to get back to us after they had lost a significant amount of weight, and getting remeasured lowers the chances that you will have to come back into the store for replacement garments on a different day.

The Auto Show Charity Preview

Do you still need a tuxedo for the Charity Preview? Well don't worry, there's still time. We are still taking orders and we have a special going on right now just for the occassion.