Hello everyone, and welcome to another of my reviews. In this article, I’ll review a tuxedo rental from the local tailor Gentlemen’s Pursuit.
I have a black-tie event coming up and was thus looking for a tuxedo to wear. Even though I’ve previously done a tuxedo, that was over 5.5 years ago (when I looked completely different), and it no longer fit me. As I had only worn that tuxedo a handful of times in the past 5+ years – granted, almost half of that period was COVID – I decided to rent instead this time around.
While many tailors offer tuxedo rentals locally, I was most drawn to JJ at Gentlemen’s Pursuit, who recently dressed Dennis Chew, Marcus Chen, and Mark Lee for this year’s Star Awards. It’s no mean feat to dress three showbiz legends, especially for a youngish tailor. More importantly, I was impressed by the variety of tuxedos – Dennis Chew donned a bold maroon, Marcus Chen was dressed in elegant emerald, while Mark Lee was fitted in a classic white. Coincidentally, all three also won at the Star Awards!
I contacted JJ regarding the tuxedo rental, and he relayed that I didn’t have to come down personally as he has my measurements on file from my recent visit. He then said he would arrange for one to be altered to my specifications and deliver it to my residence the next day – talk about speedy service! Always one to walk the talk, JJ was dressed in a sharp all-white tuxedo himself to deliver the tuxedo.
Upon inspecting the tux, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it was made from premium VBC Super 130s full-wool fabric. It’s a cut above the usual polyester tuxedos one finds at rentals. I also appreciate the red paisley lining on the inside, which gives it character.
I quickly tried it on and was surprised by how well the suit fit for a rental. Firstly, the shoulders fit well, lying flat on my shoulders without bunching. Secondly, the waist area is tapered, giving me a slimmer look. The jacket is of the appropriate length, too, ending just past the midsection of my crotch. Lastly, the sleeves are also the correct length, exposing a quarter-inch of the shirt cuff (and, more importantly, the cufflinks).
I was also impressed by the sleeve pitch, as the sleeves drape relatively cleanly. Furthermore, the trousers are of a nice half-break length. The drape can be better, but given that this is a rental, there isn’t much to complain about.
Due to its full wool construction, the tuxedo not only fits like a charm but also feels like a charm on the skin. The suit is eminently breathable and highly comfortable, even with the full lining. As expected of a tuxedo, the satin shawl lapels exude elegance and differentiate it from the usual black suit.
Conclusion – so Gentlemen’s Pursuit Tuxedo “shiok” or not?
If you have an event coming up and are looking for a tuxedo, I highly recommend trying out Gentlemen’s Pursuit. I’ll say that JJ has carved out a small niche for himself in the tuxedo space. He shared that he regularly dresses celebrities on Mediacorp shows, the most recent being Marcus Chen on the long-running Channel 8 series 黄金年华. After trying out his tuxedo, I can see why he’s been popular with local celebrities – they look good, feel great and are relatively affordable, with home fittings/deliveries available as well. What’s not to like?
Those interested in commissioning a tuxedo from Gentlemen’s Pursuit can quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy $100 off AND a free shirt. After the discount, a tuxedo from Gentlemen’s Pursuit would start at only $788 (u.p. $888). And if you’re simply looking to rent a tuxedo jacket, Gentlemen’s Pursuit also offers rates from just $150 for 3 days, and a $50 discount on trousers commissions. That’s a great price, especially considering the fit and finish of their tuxedos – if it’s good enough for A-list celebrities like Mark Lee, it’s probably good enough for you.
Editor’s Note: I highly recommend watching Mark Lee’s latest movie, Wonderland. It’s the best local movie I’ve watched in recent memory, with superb acting by Mark Lee and themes that hit close to home. Unfortunately, I don’t see much buzz about it—the theatre was nearly empty when during my screening. If you have the time, please consider supporting a local production. I promise you won’t regret it.
Gentlemen’s Pursuit’s Location: 1 Genting Link, #08-01A, Singapore 349518
Book an appointment with Gentlemen’s Pursuit via WhatsApp here.
P.S: Check out The Shiok Store here – it serves as a curation of my favourite products from my favourite brands.
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P.P.P.P.S Shiok is a common word Singaporeans use to express admiration or approval. As of 2016, you can find the definition of the word in the Oxford English Dictionary.
