You have two basic choices when shopping for a tuxedo. One would be the “off the rack” option. This might work great for some, assuming you are a perfect “off the rack” size and can find the exact styling you’re looking for. Many people, however, would rather have their new investment made to order. If this is the case, you need to become familiar with the many components in choosing your perfect tuxedo.

“Off the rack” purchases don’t require quite as much knowledge. Basically the only decisions involved are picking the color and which style looks best on you.

The problems come if you have to go to a tailor’s shop to be fitted for a made to measure item. You will be asked many questions in order for the maker to establish your preferences.

For one, while the single breasted tuxedo used to be the golden standard and the double breasted tuxedo was only worn sometimes by those in their middle ages, modern fashion has spurred a renaissance among those who find the double breasted tuxedo to have a “timeless” appeal. The choice is yours – single or double breasted?

The next decision you will have to make concerns the tuxedo’s lapels, and largely depends on your facial structure. If you have a round face, you should go with long and pointed lapels as they will elongate the face. On the flip side, those with long and/or thin faces should look into the shorter rounded lapels that can amplify the face.

Buttons vary on the single and double breasted. On the single breasted jacket just the one button should be secured, but the double breasted jacket should always be fully buttoned-up when standing. Etiquette states that it’s only unbuttoned when seated.

Yet another element is the jacket side and breast pockets, though they are decorative and never used, with even a pocket squares being strictly an accessory.

Finally, there is the choice of vents. Vents are the slits located on the bottom edge of the jacket that allow for less restriction in movement. The choices are either a single back vent, usually preferred by larger gentlemen, or double side vents.