Most men go the rent-a-tux route. And we wouldn’t totally blame you for it either, considering that you probably plan on wearing the darn thing for just a few hours. But this isn’t your high school prom. So you can scrounge for your scrapbook or take our word for it: rented suits never fit properly and always look cheap. Not to mention the fact that someone else (in fact, many someone elses) wore it on their special day. Break the mold and buy.

Quit the corporate culture

You should look like you’re getting married, not giving a PowerPoint presentation. Suiting up in something new rather than a rental or boardroom leftover is a first step, but it’s far from the only thing that will keep you out of the office. Go black, three piece, and shell out somewhat more than you may be used to. We guarantee it’ll pay off.

Say something with the fit

You may be tempted to break out the bells and whistles. This day, after all, is only supposed to come around once. But despite your best instincts, your energy and hard earned money is better spent on tailoring. An inexpensive but impeccably cut suit will look like a million bucks. The same can’t be said for a pricey, ill-fitting one.

Form follows fabric

A tailor’s nip and tuck can only go so far. Without a fine fabric to lay the foundation, it’s tough to construct a winning wedding suit. A slouchy, shapeless blend will leave you looking, well, slouchy and shapeless. A weighty wool, on the other hand, will do just the opposite.