TUXEDO ETIQUETTE:
Q: How do I rent a tuxedo?
A: Choose a style that is right for you. It is a very simple process that you can begin right here. Browse through our website and select the tuxedo style that suits your taste. Then choose accessory items such as vests, ties, shirts and shoes to coordinate with your tuxedo that will make your ensemble unique.
Choose a conveniently located Walker's Representative. Simply call our toll-free number at 1-800-228-4013 and ask the operator for the store closest to you. We will provide you with the address, phone number and directions if needed. Visit that Walkers's Representative, order your tuxedo from them and they will take your measurements. In most cases a deposit will be required to reserve your tuxedo. Return to the retail store one to two days before the wear date and pick up the suit that has been prepared especially for you. At this time you may try on the tuxedo and have any final adjustments made. We hope you enjoy your tuxedo and your special occasion but remember the suit must be returned the next business day after the event.
Choose a conveniently located Walker's Representative. Simply call our toll-free number at 1-800-228-4013 and ask the operator for the store closest to you. We will provide you with the address, phone number and directions if needed. Visit that Walkers's Representative, order your tuxedo from them and they will take your measurements. In most cases a deposit will be required to reserve your tuxedo. Return to the retail store one to two days before the wear date and pick up the suit that has been prepared especially for you. At this time you may try on the tuxedo and have any final adjustments made. We hope you enjoy your tuxedo and your special occasion but remember the suit must be returned the next business day after the event.
Q: How far in advance should I rent my tuxedo?
A: Typically one should reserve their tuxedo three to six weeks in advance. However, if you have a last minute need for formal wear, we can accommodate you at no additional charge.
Q: When should I register my wedding?
A: Register your tuxedos between three to five months before the wedding. Then, as soon as possible, you should select your style of tuxedos and accessories. All measurements for the entire wedding party should be completed within three to six weeks before the wedding. Final fittings and adjustments will be done two days before the event.
Q: When should the tuxedos be returned?
A: Return the tuxedos the next business day after the event. Remember, tuxedos returned late may be subject to a fee unless other arrangements have been made prior to the use of the tuxedo.
Q: Do I need to make an appointment?
A: No, you don't need to make an appointment. However, you might want to call the store at 1-800-228-4013 for locations of stores or hours of operation.
Q: What happens if the tuxedo doesn't fit?
A: Walker's Formal Wear stocks our tuxedos in our own local warehouse facility. In the event that an item needs to be exchanged or replaced, we can do that quickly. Alterations are also available on site and without additional charge to you.
Q: Should I rent or should I purchase a tuxedo?
A: Fortunately, Walker's Formal Wear offers both options. If you anticipate wearing a tuxedo more than three times in the next couple of years, then it might be more economical to purchase your tuxedo.
Q: How long do I keep the rental tuxedo and what if I need it for an extended time?
A: Ordinarily, a rental is for one wearing for a weekend event. However, special rates are available for extended uses such as trips, cruises and honeymoons.
Q: Why should I rent shoes?
A: With the wide variety of footwear worn today, you do not want to take a chance that anyone in your wedding party would wear inappropriate shoes with their tuxedo. Therefore, you must insist on matching formal shoes for all the men in your wedding party to ensure the proper attire. We offer more than 20 different shoe styles to please almost any fashion preference. Sizes range from little boy's size 6 to men's size 20.
Q: How could I distinguish the groom from other men in my wedding party and do I have to?
A: One option is for the groom to wear different colored accessories (usually a vest or tie). In a traditional wedding, the groom's accessories usually match the wedding colors and the bridesmaid's dresses. In a contemporary wedding, the groom can wear a different style or color of a tuxedo. However, the groom must be careful in choosing colors so that they won't clash with the wedding colors.
Q: How do I get out-of-town groomsmen measured?
A: Do not allow them to measure themselves. First they can download Walker's tuxedo measurement form. Then they go to a tuxedo shop or a business that rents tuxedos and have themselves professionally measured (the shop should fill out your form at no charge). Now have them send the measurements into the store where your wedding is registered. Make sure they have put the groom's and bride's last names on the wedding date on the form. The tuxedo should be waiting on them two days before the event. Have them come to the store for their fitting as soon as they get into town in case any adjustments or replacements are needed.
Q: If the groom is in the military, what should he wear?
A: Many of our military might choose to wear their military fulldress uniform although a tuxedo is also appropriate. If the groom chooses to wear his military fulldress uniform then the groomsman should wear tuxedos.
Q: Who pays for the men's tuxedo rentals in my wedding party?
A: Typically, each groomsman is responsible for paying for his own rental although in some cases the groom might offer some assistance in this matter.
Q: Do tuxedos come in little boys sizes?
A: Most of Walker's tuxedos start at a size 3 boys. However, infant tuxedos are available for purchase starting at a size 3 months.
Q: I have some big and tall groomsmen in my wedding. Can they be fitted properly in a tuxedo?
A: Walker's tuxedos are available up to a size 70R Also some basic styles are available in Athletic sizes and Boys Huskies. Brasher's should be able to accommodate almost everyone with this wide variety of sizes.
Q: What do you wear when the invitation says "Black Tie?"
A: "Black Tie" means that all men are required and expected to wear a tuxedo. However, this does not mean that you actually have to wear a black tie with your tuxedo. Feel free to choose any accessory color to compliment your escort's attire.
Q: What do you wear when the invitation says "White Tie?"
A: "White Tie" refers to a distinct style of formal wear that you are expected to wear. It should be a black fulldress tail coat with black trousers and white pique accessories. The shirt, vest, and tie are made from a white waffle-like pattern fabric. This is the 'ultra formal look' in men's formal wear.
Q: What is a "cutaway" and when should I wear it?
A: "Cutaway" refers to the style of jacket and is sometimes referred to as a "Morning Suit". It is an oxford grey coat with a long tapered tail in the back. The Cutaway comes with Hickory striped trousers, a grey vest and an ascot tie. This is the appropriate dress for a formal daytime wedding.
Q: When is a white dinner jacket appropriate to wear?
A: Typically, white dinner jackets can be worn from Memorial Day through Labor Day. White dinner jackets are worn with black trousers and black or colored accessories.
Q: What do I wear for a destination wedding that's on the beach, at a resort or on a cruise?
A: First, the beach attire could be more casual. Walker's suggests renting the tan Catalina suit for a beach wedding. It is a lighter weight blended fabric. Select a brightly colored tie from our accessory line to coordinate with this suit. Resort attire can be formal or semi-formal. This means a tuxedo or a suit will be appropriate. Lastly, cruise attire should be formal. Many cruises have at least one formal night where a tuxedo is required. If there are two formal nights, then rent a white dinner jacket and an extra shirt, vest and tie to give you a fresh and different look on the second night.