Let's clear a few things up right away. If you're walking down the aisle before 6:00 p.m., you really should not be in a tuxedo or white tie and tails. After six, please do. And remember vintage is a great bargain.
Lighten things up like the examples in the photo, with a striped or colored shirt and a bright tie.
Stick to the basics-black self-tied bow tie, black cummerbund or vest, white fold down (soft) collar shirt, black highly polished lace up shoes. If you choose the elegance of white tie, please make sure the vest isn't longer than the front quarters of the abbreviated tailcoat. They should end about where the peaks are on the tailcoat.
Taking your vows before 6:00 and anywhere but the beach? Consider the easy elegance of a very tailored dark suit, crisp white French-cuffed shirt with cuff-links, a dark or silver tie and highly polished black shoes.
Don't forget that white pocket square. I suggest a dark blue or a charcoal grey rather than a black suit which doesn't look as rich under artificial lights. When choosing your tie, look for a silk satin or woven that has some shine to it, you're celebrating after all, not in mourning.
Speaking of festive, please do wear a flower, but don't pin it on. Instead, thread it through the button hole on the lapel. Have a local alterations tailor sew a thick bit of thread in back of that lapel to hold the stem in place.
Morning clothes are the epitome of daytime formal. Maybe a bit too stiff for such a festive day. Lighten things up like the examples in the photo, with a striped or colored shirt and a bright tie. A buff or white waistcoat (double-breasted if you can find it) will really up your sartorial game.
You will look dashing. Congratulations!
Chris Cox's blog EasyandElegantLife.com is devoted to 'the search for everyday elegance and a study of the art of living well.'
