Tips on buying formal wear

Okay, you have to go to a formal occasion what...once or twice a year? And you need to spend all those bucks on a tux and accessories?

Answer: Yes. Renting a tux just won't cut it over the long haul. You need to have your own because you are going to be attending formal occasions out of town, at the last minute, and for business, all of which are going to make you look better if you own your own stuff.

Plus, from a practical side, how many times do you have to rent before you will have paid off a tux? (for the rental agency!)

Tip: purchase your tux with a notched collar vice a cape collar. True Cary Grant had a cape collar but unless you are his match you're better off with a notched collar.

Initially stick with basic black for cumberbun and tie.

Another tip: No clip-on ties! If you're going to go this far, then buy a good-looking silk, black bow tie. Learn to tie it here, on the page for Tying Bow ties.