As you’ve probably noticed in recent years, the mega-marts are now offering inexpensive tuxedos (including shirt and tie) for sale in about the same price range as a good pair of jeans and a sweatshirt — often less than $100.

It’s certainly a very convenient method, but can buying a cheap tuxedo this way really be worth it? How can you decide?

A lot depends upon the frequency with which you intend wearing it. If you will be wearing it very rarely to the occasional wedding or funeral, then it could be perfect. After all, why pay $1000 for a made to measure tuxedo which you will only wear once every year or two.

Certainly, if you can’t afford an expensive designer tux then it’s worth considering. The problem arises if you are likely to be wearing it quite frequently.

The quality will obviously be nowhere near the same as a more expensive item, but imagine if you were wearing it every day at the office. It’s almost certain to crease easily.

Less expensive fabrics used in cheap tuxedos simply aren’t crease resistant. After several hours of wear, it’s going to look sloppy and will probably require frequent cleaning to keep it looking presentable.

The signs of wear will also appear much more quickly. Fabrics may pill and wear out and seams are likely to come apart (as they’re not as strong as quality and hand tailored tuxedos), and buttons may quickly fall off or hang loosely.

Then of course, is the question of color. You are limited to Black or Charcoal Grey. Whilst this may be fine for business, not so for some social gatherings (except the previously mentioned weddings and funerals).

With a custom tuxedo, you have the benefit of an expert tailor to measure you and cut the fabric to size. Without a custom made tuxedo, off the rack inexpensive versions may not fit you well. You should not expect any inexpensive tuxedo purchased off the rack to look, feel or fit in any similar way to a custom version. It all comes down to your own personal needs and financial condition as to whether it is more cost effective and efficient to purchase an inexpensive tuxedo or have a custom one made for you.