The Waldorf Tuxedo Company
Lark and Lancaster streets, Albany
449-5011
http://www.WaldorfTuxedo.com

Hours: Open 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday; 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday; 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.

PHILIP KAMRASS / TIMES UNION John Wagner and his son Matthew (seated) in the showroom of the Waldorf Tuxedo Company.

Is a notch lapel morning coat with pique mandarin shirt suitable for an evening affair? What about a snazzy five-button dinner jacket? Will that four-in-hand look silly with a wing collar? Ah, the questions that love (and fashion) can raise in a man's heart. Searching for answers to our burning formalwear questions, we found a fountain of knowledge.

Located in an elegant brownstone in the center square neighborhood of downtown Albany, the company has been in business since 1936, and family-operated since 1960. The difference between this father-and-son operation and other local area shops is simple: personal service.

On a recent visit, Matthew Wagner -- who can be found on the premises most days with his dad, John -- patiently answered every question, showing us a variety of tuxedo styles and accessories to illustrate his points. (This was in contrast to many other shops, where the staff merely shoved a few catalogs at us.) The shop also makes seasonal updates to its stock (and its Web site), keeping their looks current and fashionable.