Jessica has been recognized as a preferred vendor to work with by her industry peers, earned TheKnot.com’s Best of Weddings award 9 times, and been inducted into TheKnot.com Hall of Fame. Jessica is a multi-award-winning photographer, a leader in her industry, and an educator to up-and-coming photographers through her Embark Retreat.
Welcome to another Austin wedding vendor highlight! I’m so excited to share some great advice to groom’s getting married or really any man looking for a great suit/tuxedo. I had the pleasure of meeting Buddy Estrella at Capra & Cavelli and enjoyed working with him in April to create an Italian look for our Tuscany in Texas wedding theme. It was a great experience and he took my vision and created a perfectly tailored, modern look for our two models. I know from a photographer’s perspective, nothing looks better on a groom than a perfectly tailored suit or tuxedo…it really makes a difference and just as the bride gets her ‘once in a lifetime’ dress, I think the men need the same treatment!
As a top wedding clothier in Texas, I asked Buddy for his expert opinion and advice for grooms (or their brides searching online for what their man should wear!). Check out his answers below and if you’re in the Austin area or visiting, go see him at Capra & Cavelli for all your menswear needs and tell him I said Hello!
Capra & Cavelli – Men’s Clothing
3500 Jefferson Street, Austin TX (Mopac & 35th Street)
512-450-1919
BuddyEstrella@capracavelli.com
https://www.facebook.com/capracavelli
Buddy Estrella – Midtown
Buddy has over a decade of experience in custom clothing, and owned his own retail shops in Austin and Midland. He has a proven ability in wardrobe creation and prides himself on exceptional client care. Buddy and his wife have a son at Texas A&M University. Buddy enjoys wake boarding, motocross, auto sports, snow skiing, and family related activity. One of Buddy’s passions is serving clients via “One on One” appointments in the comfort of their home or office.
For several years’ grooms were very excited about light and mid grey suits, as well as navy tuxedos. This year I recommended a departure from the norm and suggested shades of blue. Particularly sky blue, and shades of cobalt. For my clients who desire to follow the formal tradition, a peak lapeled tuxedo with a grosgrain finish was at the top of the list. A natural shoulder line and a trim (not tight) fit is ideal. Flat front trousers are still the only way to go.
Pleated formal shirts have been out, out, out for quite some time. A dapper queens’ oxford with a moderate spread collar and French cuffs (a must) in white or ecru complete the look. A waist coat (vest) is a great option for a groom who does not want to wear his tuxedo or suit coat all day/night long.
I encourage grooms to consider a well thought out ensemble for the rehearsal dinner. A dapper sport coat and trouser combination, or a pair of linen slacks matched with a smart sport shirt will always make a fiancé smile. And several casual outfits for the honeymoon trip will make the walks down the beach, shopping trips, and dinners much more enjoyable.
Perform some research to determine desired style, general color range, and fit criteria. Next, call me to chat a bit and set an appointment. During the appointment I will address any and all questions, show fabric and styling options, take measurements, and assist the groom with try on garments to confirm fit.
I spend requisite time visiting with the bride and groom gleaning opinions, preferences, and misconceptions. They are granting me the honor and privilege of serving as his personal and professional clothier for one of the most important events of their lives. I am passionate about my craft, and desire to do my very best on their behalf.
My key advice is to select what they are passionate about. It is useful to consider current trends, advice from parents, family, friends, and the professional clothier. But when it is time for the scissors to cut the cloth, it is their wedding and they should control the mood and the memories. If the choice is to go against the grain, then do so confidently.
My clients are rarely accompanied by a best man, groomsman, or friend. Most often they are joined by their fiancé. In my experience the tuxedo / suit selection journey is far more romantic and rewarding as a couple. I recently celebrated my 30th wedding anniversary and I can advise grooms with certainty when I say, “Ladies appreciate being asked their opinion, ideas and input.”
The initial consulting and final fitting process takes about a total of a week or two. Made to measure suits and shirts have a production time of approximately six weeks. Thus if we select a ready-made garment we could complete the process in as little as ten days. Whereas a made to measure ensemble requires a minimum of seven to eight weeks.
When the tuxedo or suit arrives I schedule a fitting with the groom. At that time, we make any minor adjustments to accommodate personal preferences, as well as weight loss/gain. The bride is usually present for the fitting. And this is when I have the opportunity to see how excited, and delighted she is.
The opening price point of our made to measure suits and tuxedos is $1,200.00 Made to measure shirts open at $205.00, shoes from $395.00, and a range of formal accessories such as cummerbund sets, braces, stud sets, vests, bow ties, formal neckties.
Renting a tuxedo for the prom was the bomb. This is your wedding! Now is not the time for whimsical statements. Put some thought into how you want to honor the beautiful person that you love…yes she just agreed to spend the rest of her life with you. Unlike the old printed photographs that eventually fade away, digital pics last forever. Look your best.
I joined the team in July of 2013 after a nine-year sabbatical from the clothing industry. I started my clothing career as a Personal and Professional Clothier with Tom James Company in 1993. I owned a clothing store in Austin from 1997-2004.
I grew up in the South Pacific and love the sun and beach. I’ve enjoyed vacationing and scuba diving the Caribbean, the Yucatan Peninsula, and Venezuela.
Hmmm….as an adrenaline junkie I do not follow traditional sports. When I watch sports on television it is typically, supercross, motocross, F-1, X-Games, etc. My son just graduated from Texas A & M so I do follow their football program.
Very old school in that respect. Jeffrey’s, Cisco’s, Chuy’s, Musashino Sushi, Din Ho Chinese BBQ.
My wife and I are very social animals. We enjoy gathering with friends and day tripping. My son and I are performance car enthusiasts. We enjoy working on our cars and driving with vigor throughout the hill country. And whenever invited by friends with boats, I love being on the lake and wakeboarding.
Here’s a look at our Tuscany in Texas styled wedding that we worked together on.
Buddy helped create these amazing Italian groom and groomsmen looks with a beautiful, modern blue suit.
Suit Designer – Trend by Maxman; shoes by Maganni, neckwear by Robert Talbot, shirts – Michael Khors, Andrew J.
For more information and photos from our Tuscany inspired wedding, visit the blog here:
Jessica is now booking weddings in Austin/Texas/Destination for 2016 & 2017.
Email for availability and investment information: Jessica@JessicaFreyPhotography.com
Jessica Frey is an award-winning, Texas Hill Country-based international wedding and event photographer committed to delivering a high-quality experience complete with stunning and joyful images.