Black Tie Event?...Tux or Black Suit?

Question

My company is having a black tie event for our Christmas party. The invitation says "black tie preferred". I do not own a black suit so I was debating between:

* Renting a tux from a shop
* Buying a cheap tux off of Ebay , or
* Buying a black suit, and be able to use it in the years to come

Thanks.....

Answer 1

I will buy a tux at Syms, or buy used from a Tuxedo rental place. You will get good quality.

There are other events that a Tux will be great at other social events.

Answer 2

Black tie specifically means tuxedo. When discussing formal clothes, "white tie" = white tuxedo, "black tie" = black tuxedo, "casual" = suit.

I would actually buy a tuxedo, but I realize that this may not be possible financially for you. If not, then definitely rent one. The company is literally saying "Come in a tuxedo," so come in one. If you would like to rent, I recommend two stores: Tux Shop and Men's Warehouse. They have good quality tuxes there.

Also, the second poster said that most suit wearers were young and "hip." I would say that they are young, not because they are in style, but because they have no idea what they're doing and do not care about clear standards. Go with the tux.

Answer 3

Black Tie Preferred- they really would like you to wear a tux - if you intend to stay with the company a tuxedo sounds like a good investment as I would assume they will have other black tie events. if you are concerned over the cost you could rent or search charity shops etc. but I think if you invest in your own Tuxedo, you'll be better in the long run. A good tux always worked for James Bond!

Answer 4

Agree with the black suit idea!!!!!

The suits look sharp right now. I wore one to a function just recently with an awesome black tie and an off white shirt with a bit of a pattern in it. I was surprised at how many other men were there in suits and not tuxes (invitation did say black tie). It seemed that the crowd wearing the suits seemed to be younger or at least younger in style. Dress it up with a pocket square and you are so right, you will get more use out of it later on.

Answer 5

Black tie typically means formal tuxedo attire. You should check with the person who is in charge of planning the event to see what options are appropriate. Don't be afraid to do that - believe me, there are probably many people who are just as puzzled as you are.

Answer 6

I would have to pick the last option. Having a black suit will be useful for many different occasions and you can always dress down for more casual occasions.
I think it is an essential thing for men to have in their closet...remember to get nice shoes to match too!