Keep your heels, head and standards high for formal wear

Posted 3/14/18

While formal wear is not something we think about every day, this time of year there are some who are (or should be) giving it major consideration.

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Keep your heels, head and standards high for formal wear

Posted

LUSK- While formal wear is not something we think about every day, this time of year there are some who are (or should be) giving it major consideration.  The fit and quality of your apparel can have a big impact on how much the big day is enjoyed. Hometown Country has been helping customers from Lusk and surrounding communities select dress clothes and fit them for almost 30 years. 

In today’s world off-the-rack is now the default, not the exception. However, just because we live in a one-size-fits-all world doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the comfort and quality of custom-fit clothing. Not only that, but the fit of your formal dress or tuxedo can affect how you look in pictures that you will value for years to come and how much socializing you feel comfortable doing. 

Almost never does one find clothing that is “just right” off the rack. Whether you are having your “Dream Dress” created or a borrowed dress fitted, there are some things to keep in mind.  Time is usually of the essence. Do not wait till the last minute.  Before you can have something fitted, you must have the shoes and undergarments that you will be wearing. It is preferred that you do not choose a dress that is too small. Making a dress larger is always more expensive, if it is even possible.  

The internet makes it possible to order your fantasy dress straight from the Chinese factory. Before you place an order, you need to consider you may not get the dress you think you are ordering.

Most of these orders are not returnable. Color may be off. Size is most difficult. Have your real measurements taken by a professional and don’t assume you know your measurements based on previous experiences. Even though the company may advertise that the garment is custom to your measurements, alterations are almost always necessary.

Having your clothing tailored can actually save a lot of money. It allows one to purchase clothing that doesn’t fit “exactly right” but potentially at a greatly reduced price and then spend the small amount of money to have it fitted. Ladies, if you find a dress that the features are gorgeous but the cut of the bodice, the length of the skirt or the sleeves or straps simply don’t fit correctly, tailoring is your best option for a one-of-a-kind look from any dress, jacket or outfit.

If you have the time and patience, a fully custom-created dress or gown can be both cost effective and unique. Knowing that no one else will be wearing the same creation can make a special event that much better. Vicki has been sewing custom gowns for over 20 years and is able to help you from pattern and fabric selection to final fittings.

Gentlemen, don’t forget about your formal wear as well. Renting a tuxedo is almost always the most cost-effective decision if you want the full outfit (pants, jacket, shirt, cummerbund or vest, shoes). However, if a tuxedo isn’t your style or you only want a tuxedo coat, consider purchasing one at a reduced price or finding a really nice suit jacket that is your style and having it fitted. Chances are good that a high-quality jacket will last you several years, even as you grow, particularly if you purchase it in your junior or senior year of high school.

 Hometown Country has a full formal-wear department and rents full tuxedoes, suits and any or all of the extras for weddings, proms and many other dressy occasions.  They have carried the Jim’s Formal Wear line exclusively for over 25 years.  Jim’s is the foremost formal wear company in the United States. From toddlers to very large men, shoes and socks to top hats and canes, they have it covered.  If you want something more than a standard tuxedo this can be accommodated with formal wear from different decades and styles Customers can select the style, match colors with the fabric swatches of the vest and ties and be measured all in one simple and painless step. The rentals usually arrive UPS by the Thursday before the planned wear date.  Out of town events and wearing for 2 consecutive weekends can be accommodated. The garments are pressed and ready to wear. If needed the length of a coat sleeve or pant can be altered once the garment has been delivered to the store.

For the best selection, we do encourage the rental orders be placed as early as possible. Last minute orders can be accommodated, but rush shipping charges add to the cost.  Changes or cancellations must be done 10 days before the rental date.

It is very important that the rentals are returned on time. They must be cleaned and prepared for the next use. For this reason, we require that they be returned the day following wearing unless prior arrangements have been made. 

Making your big event or special day that much better by considering tailored garments and custom orders. For more questions contact Vicki Boldon at Hometown Country, (307) 334-2044.