Is It Cheaper To Buy Or Rent Wedding Suits?

Choosing the perfect wedding suit is important for any groom, blending style, comfort, and practicality. 

One of the key questions many face is whether to buy or rent a suit. This choice impacts your budget and influences how you’ll approach formal occasions in the future.

In this blog, we’ll explore the costs, benefits, and drawbacks of buying versus renting a wedding suit, providing a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. 

We’ll explain everything you need to know, from initial expenses to long-term value, to ensure you look your best on your special day while staying within budget.

Let’s get straight to the point.

When deciding between buying or renting a wedding suit, the choice depends on your budget and future needs. Buying a suit is a long-term investment, with costs ranging from $400 to $1,300. It offers a custom fit and reusability for multiple events. 

However, it comes with higher upfront expenses and maintenance requirements. Renting a suit, costing $150 to $200, is ideal for one-time use, as it includes accessories and requires no long-term commitment. 

However, it lacks ownership and may not fit perfectly. Consider your style preferences, frequency of formal events, and budget to make the best decision.

Comparing The Total Cost: Renting Vs Buying

Buying A Suit: A Long-Term Investment

When purchasing a wedding suit, it can be viewed as a long-term investment. Below is a breakdown of the typical costs associated with buying:

• Suit Purchase Cost: $300 to $1,000
• Tailoring and Alterations: $50 to $200
• Accessories (if not included): $50 to $100
• Total Cost: $400 to $1,300

If you plan to use the suit for future occasions, buying is a cost-effective option after two or more uses, as the cost per wear decreases.

Renting A Suit: Ideal For One-Time Use

Renting is a one-time expense, perfect for those who don’t plan on wearing a formal suit often. Here’s what you can expect:

• Rental Fee: $150 to $200
• Accessories: Usually included in the rental package
• Total Cost: $150 to $200

For a groom who only needs the suit for the wedding, renting is generally the cheaper option upfront.

Cost Of Renting A Wedding Suit

1. Rental Fees

Renting a wedding suit offers an affordable option for grooms who need formal attire for a single occasion. 

Rental fees generally range between $150 and $200, depending on the store, brand, and location. Premium stores or designer labels may charge higher rates, sometimes exceeding $300. 

This flexibility allows grooms to select a suit that fits their budget without compromising style or quality. It’s a practical alternative to purchasing a suit outright, which can be significantly more expensive.

2. Included Accessories

One of the benefits of suit rentals is that most packages include accessories. Items such as ties, cufflinks, shirts, and even shoes are often provided, saving time and money. 

These additions eliminate the need to purchase these items separately, making rentals a cost-effective and convenient option. 

Whether the groom prefers a classic or contemporary look, the accessory range included can help complete the ensemble effortlessly. This bundled approach simplifies the process of assembling a polished wedding outfit.

3. No Long-Term Commitment

Renting a suit is perfect for grooms who prefer to avoid dealing with long-term storage or maintenance. Once the event is over, the suit is returned, freeing the groom from concerns about upkeep. 

This is especially beneficial for those who don’t expect to wear a formal suit again soon. With no ongoing commitment, renting provides a hassle-free experience that aligns with the needs of modern grooms. It ensures they look their best without the added responsibilities of ownership.

Factors Affecting The Cost Of Buying A Wedding Suit

1. Initial Purchase Cost

The initial cost of buying a wedding suit varies based on brand, quality, and fabric. Here’s a general cost breakdown:

• Low to Mid-Range Suits: $300 to $600
• High-End Suits: $700 to $1,000 or more
• Tailored Suits: Can exceed $1,000 depending on customisation

For those who want a bespoke look, high-end suits, especially those that are tailored, come with a higher price tag but provide a unique and customised style.

2. Tailoring And Alterations

After purchasing, alterations may be necessary to ensure the suit fits perfectly. Depending on the adjustments needed, tailoring costs can range from $50 to $200.

• Minor Alterations: $50 to $100
• Major Adjustments: $150 to $200

While alterations add to the overall expense, they guarantee a custom fit and enhance the groom’s overall appearance on the wedding day.

3. Frequency Of Use

Buying becomes more economical if the groom plans to attend multiple formal events each year. For example:

• Cost Per Wear: For a $600 suit worn twice, the cost per wear is reduced to $300.
• More Frequent Use: The more events attended, the more cost-effective purchasing becomes.

4. Accessories

Accessories, such as ties, cufflinks, and shoes, are often included when renting but may need to be purchased separately when buying a suit. Expect to spend around:

• Ties: $20 to $50
• Cufflinks: $25 to $75
• Shirts and Shoes: $50 to $200

These additional items can increase the total expense of buying a suit.

Pros And Cons Of Renting A Wedding Suit

Advantages of Renting

1. Cost Efficiency: Renting is generally more affordable upfront than purchasing.
2. Convenience: Rentals often include tailoring, cleaning, and accessory options.
3. Variety: Rental services offer a wide selection of designs, allowing grooms to choose trendy or unique styles.

Disadvantages of Renting

1. Limited Ownership: After the wedding, you must return the suit.
2. Fit Issues: Rental suits may not fit perfectly as a custom-made option.
3. Potential Damage Fees: Stains or tears may result in additional charges.

Pros And Cons Of Buying A Wedding Suit

Advantages of Buying

1. Custom Fit: Purchasing allows for bespoke tailoring, ensuring a perfect fit.
2. Longevity: A wedding suit can be worn multiple times, making it a practical long-term investment.
3. Sentimental Value: Owning your suit creates a keepsake from your special day.

Disadvantages of Buying

1. High Initial Cost: The upfront expense is significantly higher than renting.
2. Maintenance: Owning a suit requires additional costs for dry cleaning and storage.
3. Outdated Styles: Over time, the suit may fall out of fashion, reducing its usability.

Conclusion

Whether to rent or buy a wedding suit ultimately depends on the groom’s personal needs, style preferences, and plans for formal events. Renting is the most cost-effective choice for grooms who only need a suit for the wedding day and prefer the convenience of a lower upfront cost with included accessories. 

However, if the groom anticipates wearing the suit on multiple occasions, buying offers a long-term investment, allowing for a custom fit, complete ownership, and reduced cost per wear over time. Carefully weighing these factors will help ensure the best decision for the groom’s budget and future use.

FAQs About Wedding Suits

When Should You Buy A Wedding Suit?

You should buy a wedding suit if you plan to wear it for future events, want a perfect custom fit, or prefer owning a keepsake from your special day.

Is A Suit Or Tux Cheaper?

Buying. Tuxedos cost about $700 to $1,000 for the jacket and pants. You may be able to find a sale on a tuxedo, but generally, you will be paying more than you would for a suit. You’ll also need a shirt, vest or cummerbund, a tie, and shoes.

Which Colour Suit Is Best For Wedding?

Blue or navy wedding suits are the best choice for a colourful groom suit. Shades of blue tend to punch up the colours you pair with them, bringing out the best in your tie, pocket square, or even the dress shirt you choose.

How Long Does It Take To Make A Suit?

Between six and eight weeks. Because body measurements can change in six weeks, small changes and adjustments often have to be made to the suit, which is why the tailors leave extra space.

Is It Worth Investing In A Custom-Made Suit?

A custom-made suit is worth the investment if you want a perfect fit and a unique design tailored to your preferences. While more expensive, bespoke suits ensure comfort, style, and longevity, making them a valuable addition to your wardrobe.