Prom Spot - Top 6 Tux Rental Tips

If the right tux is what you're after, you've come to the right place. Renting a tux can be a tad confusing -- especially if it's your first time. But never fear. Our quick and easy rental guide will have you good to go in no time.

The Early Bird Special
Renting a tux for prom? You'll need to get to the store ASAP if you want to have a good selection. After all, your date's probably been dress hunting for months now. It wouldn't kill you to get this major prom to-do scratched off your list (and ensure that you have the best choices) -- lots of guys are going to be looking at the same time as you.

Check Out the Store
Some tux rental shops have been around longer than you have. So before you plunk down your hard-earned cash, check out the inventory. Do you see any tuxes with holes or signs of wear? If yes, hightail it out of there. You've got better places to go.

Find an Expert
A good formalwear dealer should be in the know when it comes to styles, sizing, and trends. If you're not sure whether the sales guy is legit, ask him which is more formal: a peaked or a notched lapel? Correct answer: Peaked. If he passes the test, okay, now you're talking. If not, get yourself to another clerk or another store, pronto!

Avoid Clashing
To match or not to match? That is the question. The answer? Ask your date. She might think it's cute if your vest picks up one of the colors in her dress -- but she might also think it's jaw-droppingly tacky. There's no way to read her mind on this, so you'll have to bring it up (and we promise, she'll be super flattered you asked -- it's a sure way to win points with her!). P.S.: You don't have to match exactly -- just make sure you don't clash.

Deposit Required
Most tuxedo rental shops will expect you to plunk down some dough to reserve your tux. Rentals average anywhere from $50 to $100, but the deposit (which covers any damages to the tux) will be considerably lower. So before heading out, make sure you've got some cash or a credit card on hand.

The Complete Package
The store you choose should be able to provide all the coordinating accessories. Ask your dealer if he'll be able to get you a bow tie or neck tie, cummerbund or vest, cuff links, suspenders, and maybe even some shoes.

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--Elina Furman