By Rachael Lindley
Photography by Crystal Wise
Fort Worth is a city known for its rich traditions and refined tastes, but Cowtown has long lacked a locally owned tuxedo resource.
Houstoun Waring recognized the market gap. Born and raised in New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina displaced Waring in 2005, moving him to Texas, where he completed high school in Austin and attended business school at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Now, the CPA-turned-clothier is redefining how the western half of the Metroplex approaches black-tie attire.
“I fell into the business almost by accident,” he admits. “I’m a CPA by education, and I took over a tuxedo shop in Dallas that had been around for more than 50 years. We grew it a lot, even through COVID, and I realized how much I loved working with people instead of sitting in a cubicle.”
A Modern Approach to a Classic Tradition
The Fort Worth location is more than a rental shop — it’s a showroom designed to feel inviting and personal.
“I built this store to have a larger storefront and a comfortable environment where we can host wedding planners, men’s groups, even cocktail events,” Waring says. “It’s not just about handing someone a suit in a plastic bag. I want people to enjoy the process.”
The interior of Waring Tuxedos welcomes you in with a rich green hue on the walls and expertly placed, yet functional antique furniture. Waring admits that he chose every piece himself with the idea of southern hospitality.
At the core of the business is a high-quality rental program, a rarity in the region. Every tuxedo in stock is made from super 120s wool, the same quality you’d expect in a retail tuxedo. That means all clients — from college students heading to a formal event to billionaires attending a gala — can walk out the door in a tuxedo that looks custom-made.
“If someone comes in at two o’clock needing a tux for that evening, we can make it happen,” he says.
Custom Clothing and Personal Service
Alongside rentals, custom clothing has become a growing part of the business. Clients can choose their fabrics, design every detail from lapel shape to lining, and even personalize jackets with monograms or custom-printed interiors.
“The custom side is where people really have fun,” he says. “We’ll pour a glass of scotch, flip through fabric books, and design something that feels personal.”
The customization process typically takes three to six weeks, depending on the availability of the chosen fabric. Tailoring adjustments are done on-site for a perfect fit.
“The most important thing is that it fits well,” Waring says. “A perfectly fitting navy suit will get worn for years, while a flashy fabric may only get worn once.”
Accessories with Character
Waring Tuxedos also carries a curated selection of luxury accessories, including needlepoint belts, cummerbunds, and cufflinks from Smathers & Branson, Ghurka leather luggage, handmade English umbrellas, and bespoke bow ties crafted from fine Italian silks. At Waring, they hand-select each piece to represent the store’s mix of tradition and individuality.
Rooted in Community
Unlike national chains, Waring has built Waring Tuxedos on local relationships.
“We’re not a corporate entity. I am the business,” he says. “Our clients see us at the same events they do. We’re part of the community, and that allows us to be more flexible — whether it’s accommodating an entire wedding party or adjusting rentals for out-of-town groomsmen.”
Looking Ahead
For now, the goal is simple: let Fort Worth know that a world-class tuxedo resource is finally here. The shop blends the reliability of on-site inventory with the creativity of custom design, creating an experience that’s both practical and indulgent.
“Whether it’s the guy renting his first tux for prom or someone designing a bespoke dinner jacket, I want them to walk away feeling confident,” he says. “Because that’s what great clothing does — it makes you feel like the best version of yourself.”
