Formal wear
Liz Buckner County Extension Agent-FCS

A good rule to follow is the cost-perwearing formula to

determine which option is less expensive. The formula: divide the cost

of the item(s) by the number of times the item will be worn. For

example, a jacket that costs $100, and will be worn three times results

in a cost of $33.33 per occasion. A comparison can be made by renting a

similar jacket. If the jacket to rent is $25, then it is less costly to

purchase the jacket.

Another thing to remember, if the jacket is to be worn a number

of times, then be sure to include other costs such as dry cleaning to the total cost.

Because formal wear or other special clothing can be either rented or purchased, some basic rules apply for both options. The following suggestions on clothing rental can be applied: rent formal wear if you are part of a wedding party where everyone needs to look alike, rent if you do not have enough money to purchase what you want, shop thrift stores, garage sales, resale stores, and similar outlets for the best deal when buying, budget what can be afforded, and stick with the budget.

One final point to remember, a formal outfit includes more than just the tuxedo or the dress. Shoes, jewelry, other accessories, and extras such as flowers, meals, and transportation will be needed for a formal occasion. By keeping all of the details in mind one can plan ahead so not to be caught off guard. And after all of the budgeting and planning ahead of time, more opportunity to shop around will result in "just the right outfit."

Extension programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin.
Ginger Shorter
Rusk County Extension Office Manager
113 East Fordall Street
Henderson, TX 75652
E-Mail gshorter@ag.tamu.edu