If it says "Black Tie Optional" -Bottom Line: Wear a Tux!

If the night calls for a black tie tuxedo, you don’t have to be just another penguin and you don’t have to be afraid to rent one. Renting a tuxedo allows you the pleasure of not spending hundreds of dollars for an suit you’ll only wear a few times and you’ll be able to rent the latest style and get a perfect fit tuxedo. Renting is easier than you think, but knowing how to wear a tuxedo will single you out as a man who knows how to dress well when the occasion calls for only the best.

Lately, we’ve noticed the garish trend of men opting out of the tuxedo. They either think it’s unnecessary or they don’t want to go to the effort. Unfortunately, they only look foolish.

Recently a friend attended the annual gala opening of the Atlanta Symphony, which is a formal, black-tie affair with international guests that include ambassadors and philanthropists. On this night, they expected to see fabulous men & women looking dapper all dressed up but it was not to be. Alas, the scourge of fashion -- that casual Friday uniform of golf shirt and khakis -- ruled the night.  Her & her husband felt over dressed and totally disappointed by the lack of respect for the symphony. Would it have been so hard to find an affordable tuxedo at the last minute? I think not. If the invitation states that black-tie is optional, then, by all means, wear a tuxedo! The use of the word “optional” is just a polite way of reminding you what you should wear. Then again, even if it doesn’t state the attire, you should go to the extra effort of showing your young lady friend that you’re a man of taste and wear one for that romantic evening at the theater. You really don’t have to have an invitation as an excuse or a reason. Her affection should be enough of an incentive -- it will be worth it.