In the whirlwind of wedding planning, where the spotlight often shines on the bridal gown, the significance of the groom's attire can sometimes be overshadowed. Yes, "the dress" is a marvel, a centerpiece of many a wedding day dream, but let's not forget that the groom's ensemble plays a starring role in the day's aesthetics as well. This guide is dedicated to turning the tables, giving proper due to men's wedding style - from tuxes to suits and everything in between - and unveiling how it can be transformed into an equally show-stopping element of the wedding.
The choice of what the groom wears is more than a mere formality; it's an opportunity to express personality, complement the wedding's theme, and stand out in a way that is often reserved for the bridal gown. From the sleek lines of a classic tuxedo to the bold statement of a contemporary suit, the groom's attire is a canvas waiting to be painted with personal style, but you have to know how to make it work for you! If you haven't given it much thought before, or are still struggling to make your look work, this guide can help by breaking down the basics of attire and men's wedding styling.
Understanding Groom's Attire Basics:
Key Components of Groom's Attire:
Before we delve into styles and trends, it’s essential to understand the basic components that make up the groom’s attire: the suit, the tuxedo, and the crucial accessories that tie it all together. It's important to know the difference and where each is most appropriate.
The Suit: The quintessential choice for a less formal or daytime wedding, suits come in a variety of colors, fabrics, and styles. The beauty of choosing a suit is in its versatility and ability to be worn after the wedding day, making it a practical yet stylish choice. If you want a piece that will stand the test of time, opt for perfectly tailored, dark colored suit from a quality retailer like Hugo Boss. They've been making men look dapper for decades and they typically offer free tailoring services. Suits are anything but boring these days in come in every fabric, color, and pattern imaginable.
The Tuxedo: The epitome of evening formal wear, a tuxedo elevates the groom's appearance with its sleek design and sharp tailoring. Distinguished by satin lapels and a bow tie, the tuxedo is a nod to timeless elegance and sophistication. You can check out a variety of swanky styles in the Bonobos Wedding Shop. While a tuxedo may sound stuffy - think again. Tuxes, like suits, come in a variety or styles and fits. When selected with care, they can make any man look and feel like James Bond.
Men's Wedding Accessories: The devil is in the details, and when it comes to groom's attire, accessories play a pivotal role. From ties to cufflinks, pocket squares to shoes, vests to socks, each element offers an opportunity to personalize the groom's look, adding layers of texture, color, and personality.
Complementing the Wedding Theme and Venue:
The choice of groom's attire should be a reflection of the wedding's overall theme and the venue's ambiance. Selecting attire that complements the overall vision is crucial if trying to create a cohesive and visually stunning wedding aesthetic.
Outdoor vs. Indoor: Consider the setting of your wedding. A garden or beach setting lends itself to lighter materials and more relaxed styles, while indoor venues typically call for more formal attire. Remember, formal doesn't have to mean boring or uncomfortable!
Daytime vs. Evening: Daytime weddings often have a more relaxed vibe, allowing for a broader range of suit options. Think looser fits, lighter colors, and leaving the bowtie at home. Evening events, however, are the perfect occasion for the classic elegance of a tuxedo and some fancier details.
Theme Alignment: Whether you're going for a rustic, vintage, modern, or traditional theme, ensure the groom’s attire complements this. The attire should be an extension of the theme, reinforcing the day's overall mood and style. If you're hosting a fall soiree, consider colors that play well with the season - browns, rust, dark greens. If you're hosting a spring fling, why not consider blue, light grey, or even beige.
Classic Groom's Attire:
When we talk about classic groom's attire, we're diving into a world where timeless elegance meets ceremonial grandeur. This isn't about adhering to old-fashioned norms but embracing styles that have stood the test of time for a reason. Classic attire doesn't just make the groom look good; it elevates him to a figure of timeless sophistication.
Traditional Options:
Black Tie: The quintessential choice for evening weddings, a black tie outfit typically includes a black tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and sometimes a cummerbund or waistcoat.It's the gold standard for formal attire, offering a sharp, polished look that's hard to surpass. While black tie may leave some imagining a homogenous looking group of guys hanging around looking like a flock of penguins, you couldn't be more wrong. Nowadays, black tie is about taking those traditional formal elements and making them your own. Find the fit that makes you look like a movie star, and accessories that are unique to you.
Semi-Formal Dress: This is similar to black tie but with more wiggle room and is appropriate for both evening and daytime events. Formal dress usually boils down to a dark colored suit completed with a tie. For the groom, it’s a chance to express individual style while still adhering to the elegant essence of the wedding theme. This approach not only respects the significance of the occasion but also embraces the uniqueness of the groom’s personality, making it a popular choice for modern weddings.
Personalizing Classic Attire:
While classic groom's attire adheres to certain standards, there's room for personalization to ensure the groom's personality shines through.
Tie vs. Bow Tie: Choosing between a tie and a bow tie can change the vibe of the outfit. A bow tie leans more towards traditional formal, while a tie can offer a slightly more relaxed yet still sophisticated look.
Waistcoat Variations: Opting for a waistcoat? Consider the color and pattern. A classic black or grey is traditional, but adding a pop of color or a subtle pattern can personalize the look without straying from elegance. While waistcoats have gone out of fashion in the US, the Brits still make them look pretty fly.
Cufflinks and Pocket Squares: These accessories are where personality can really come into play. Choose cufflinks that speak to you! From plain gold or silver, to patterns and semi-precious gems; you can choose cufflinks with your initials or cufflinks that reflect a hobby. A pocket square can add a dash of color or pattern to the outfit, tying the groom's look in with the overall color scheme of the wedding.
Contemporary Groom's Attire Trends:
Moving from the timeless to the timely, contemporary groom's attire embraces modern fashion trends while still nodding to tradition. This is where personal style, current trends, and the unique flair of the wedding can really shine.
Modern Trends:
Bold Colors and Patterns: Gone are the days when grooms were limited to black, grey, or navy. Today's trends include suits in vibrant colors, from deep burgundy to rich greens, or even patterned fabrics like checks or floral designs for the more adventurous groom. You can find a suit in every color imaginable at Indochino which focuses on custom attire.
Mix and Match: Mixing different textures and colors, like a velvet jacket with traditional trousers, is increasingly popular. It allows for a customized look that can be as unique as the couple’s love story. If this speaks to you be sure to head over to the suit section on the Bonobos website. Bonobos is our favorite retailer for sharp, but bold looks for our grooms.
Casual Chic: For less formal weddings, grooms are opting for a more relaxed look, such as tailored chinos with a blazer, or even a smart, well-fitted shirt with suspenders. It's about matching the attire to the wedding's vibe while maintaining a sense of personal style.
Blending Contemporary with Classic:
The art of modern groom's attire lies not just in embracing new trends but in blending these with classic elements for a look that is both current and timeless.
Fabric Choices: Modern technology has brought us fabrics that offer the best of both worlds - traditional looks with improved durability, comfort, and even stain resistance. Think classic wool suits with a twist in texture or weave.
Tailoring: The fit of the groom's attire has never been more important. Contemporary tailoring leans towards a slimmer, more form-fitting silhouette, offering a modern update to the classic suit or tuxedo.
Sustainable Fashion: An increasing trend in contemporary wedding planning is sustainability, and groom's attire is no exception. Opting for suits made from sustainable materials or renting high-quality attire for the day are ways to stay modern and conscious.
Suspenders & Vests: Traditional elements like suspenders and vests can be incorporated into both classic and contemporary looks, and can serve as a bridge between both. Available in different styles, fabrics, and textures, these pieces can really pull a look together and are a great way to elevate a day-time look that doesn't include a jacket.
Choosing the Right Fit and Fabric:
Selecting the perfect fit and the ideal fabric for the groom's attire is more than just a matter of comfort; it's about ensuring you look your best from the first photo to the last dance. This section focuses on how to navigate these crucial aspects so you're poised and confident on the big day.
The Importance of Fit:
Tailoring is Key: A well-tailored suit or tuxedo can transform the one's appearance. Just like with a wedding gown, a perfect fit will emphasizing all the best features.The goal is to achieve a silhouette that complements the groom’s body type, whether that’s through a slim-fit style or a more classic cut.
Professional Measurements: Grooms should try to get professionally measured rather than guessing or using off-the-rack sizes. This ensures every piece of the attire fits perfectly, from the jacket and trousers down to the shirt and waistcoat.
Final Fittings: Schedule a final fitting close to the wedding date to accommodate any last-minute adjustments. This ensures the attire fits perfectly, accounting for any changes in the groom's size.
Choosing the Right Fabric:
Season and Setting: The choice of fabric should reflect the wedding's setting and season. Lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton are ideal for summer or outdoor weddings, while wool and velvet provide warmth and richness for winter celebrations.
Comfort and Durability: Beyond aesthetics, consider the fabric's comfort and durability. The groom will be wearing this attire for hours, so it's important to choose materials that not only look good but also feel good and can withstand the day's activities.
Personal Style and Theme: The fabric can also be a reflection of the groom's personal style and the wedding theme. Textured fabrics add depth to the attire, while sleek, smooth materials offer a more modern, minimalist look.
Accessorizing Groom's Attire:
Accessories are the elements that truly personalize the groom's attire, turning a standard suit or tuxedo into a reflection of his personality and the wedding's aesthetic.
Ties, Bow Ties, and Cravats:
Selection Tips: Choose a tie, bow tie, or cravat that complements the wedding's color scheme and the groom's attire. For a more formal look, a silk tie or bow tie in a solid color or subtle pattern works well. Cravats offer a touch of traditional elegance, especially for daytime or outdoor weddings.
Personal Touch: Consider personality when selecting these accessories. A quirky, patterned bow tie or a custom-designed tie can add a unique touch to the outfit.
Cufflinks and Pocket Squares:
Cufflinks: These small but impactful accessories should echo the wedding's theme or colors. From classic silver or gold to customized designs that reflect a hobby or interest, cufflinks are a way to add a personal touch.
Pocket Squares: Choose a pocket square that complements the tie or bow tie but doesn't exactly match it. The fold can be simple and elegant or a bit more elaborate, depending on the wedding's formality level.
Shoes and Socks:
Shoes: The right shoes can tie the entire look together. For classic attire, polished oxfords or loafers in black or brown are timeless. For a more contemporary look, consider brogues or even stylish sneakers for a casual wedding.
Socks: Socks offer an opportunity for a fun, personal expression. Whether it's a splash of color, a funky pattern, or even custom socks with a meaningful design, they can be a hidden nod to the groom's personality.
Groom's Attire by Venue and Theme:
The choice of groom's attire is significantly influenced by the wedding venue and theme. This alignment ensures that the groom not only looks his best but also complements the wedding's overall aesthetic. Below we've made some basic styling suggestions to bring you in line with your overall theme.
Groom's Styling Tips For Outdoor Weddings:
Beach and Garden Weddings: For these settings, opt for lighter fabrics like linen or lightweight wool or even linen to keep cool. Lighter colors, such as greys, blues, and even pastels, can blend beautifully with the natural surroundings. Consider a less formal style, like a well-fitted blazer and trousers, to match the casual but elegant setting.
Rustic and Barn Weddings: Earth tones and textured fabrics work well, reflecting the rustic charm of the venue. Tweed suits, vests, and even boots can add character to the groom's attire, creating a cohesive look with the natural, rustic setting.
Outdoor Appropriate Shoes: For outdoor events, consider a less formal choice in footwear: a casual (perhaps even comfortable) oxford might do the trick for a laid back garden affair, while boots might be a great option for a barn wedding. Bare feet on the beach is totally acceptable as long as those little piggies are fully pedicured first.
Groom's Styling Tips For Indoor Weddings:
Ballrooms and Formal Halls: These venues call for more traditional, formal attire. A classic tuxedo or a sharp, dark suit is appropriate, reflecting the elegance and sophistication of the setting - a dark grey or deep blue are great alternatives to black. Pay attention to details like a bow tie, a silk pocket square, and spiffy cuff links to elevate the attire.
Urban and Modern Spaces: For weddings in contemporary settings like art galleries or urban lofts, grooms can experiment with modern suits, incorporating unique colors and patterns. Fabric should also be given careful consideration - why not try something fun?
Indoor Choices For Footwear: Here, pay special attention to formality. For the ballroom - patent leather or velvet loafers can work well. Designer sneakers for a trendy, edgy look that matches the venue's modern vibe
Aligning with the Wedding Theme:
Vintage: For a wedding with a vintage theme, look for attire that harks back to the specific era being celebrated. This could mean a 1920s tuxedo for a Great Gatsby-themed wedding or a 1960s mod suit for a retro feel.
Cultural Themes: Respect and incorporate elements of the relevant cultures into the groom's attire, whether it's traditional garments or accessories that pay homage to the cultural background.
Themed Colors: Coordinate the groom's attire with the wedding's color scheme for a unified look. This could be through something obvious like the color of the suit itself, or in a more subtle manner by linking the tie, or even the boutonniere.
Beach, Barn, or Ballroom: Always take into account the setting and let that guide your style choices! While cowboy boots wouldn't work in a ballroom, they certainly good if saying I-do on the ranch. Similarly, we wouldn't recommend velvet loafers for the beach front groom, but we love how they look in a ballroom!
Shopping For The Groom's Attire
Navigating the process of selecting and fitting groom's attire can be daunting. Here are expert tips to ensure a smooth experience, resulting in a perfectly fitting outfit for the big day.
Start Early:
Begin the process 6 to 9 months before the wedding. This allows ample time for browsing, fitting, custom orders, and alterations.
Where to Shop Men's Wedding Looks
Boutiques and Specialized Stores: For personalized service and tailored advice, seek out local specialty stores or boutiques specializing in men’s formalwear.
Classic Menswear Retailers: Retailers like Hugo Boss, Indochino, and Bonobos are some of our favorite go-tos. They aren't speciality shops but they offer something more bespoke than the usual department store. That's not to say you shouldn't look in a department store. Large retailers like Macy's and Bloomingdales often have a variety of options to suit different budgets.
Online Retailers: A convenient option with a wide selection. Look for retailers with good return policies and customer reviews. We like the ease and wide selection available at Friar Tux.
Rental Services: Ideal for those looking for high-quality attire without the investment. Ensure they offer a try-on period and final fitting. The Black Tux is great option for grooms, offering rentals and sales, as well as a full selection of accessories to get you looking your best.
Scheduling Fittings and Alterations:
Initial Fitting: This should be done as soon as the attire is selected or arrives.
Final Fitting: Schedule this 2 to 4 weeks before the wedding to accommodate any last-minute adjustments.
Emergency Kit: Prepare a day-of emergency kit with items like safety pins, a sewing kit, and stain remover for unforeseen issues.
The Significance of Choosing the Right Groom's Attire
Selecting the perfect attire for the groom goes beyond merely matching the wedding theme or fitting the venue's aesthetics. It's about making a statement, about the groom feeling his best, exuding confidence, and standing beside his partner in perfect harmony. The right attire speaks volumes, transforming the groom into a pivotal figure of the celebration, whose look is immortalized in photographs and cherished memories.
Recap of Key Takeaways:
The Importance of Fit and Fabric: Remember, the key to looking impeccable is in the attire's fit and the fabric's quality. Tailored to perfection, the right outfit not only enhances the groom's physique but also ensures comfort throughout the celebration.
Personalization Through Accessories: Accessories are your secret weapon. They add a layer of personal touch to the attire, allowing the groom's personality to shine through, from the choice of cufflinks to the pattern of the pocket square.
Venue and Theme Coordination: The attire should be a reflection of the wedding's setting and theme, whether it's the rustic charm of a barn wedding or the sophisticated elegance of a ballroom affair.
Embracing Personal Style: Above all, the chosen attire should resonate with the groom's personal style. It's his day too, and feeling confident and comfortable in his attire will only enhance the joy and celebration.
Parting Advice:
As we conclude this guide, remember that the process of selecting the groom's attire is as much a journey as it is a destination. It's an opportunity for grooms to express themselves, to make a statement about who they are and the love they're celebrating. So, take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to step a little out of your comfort zone. After all, your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and your attire should be as memorable as the day itself.
FAQ on Groom's Attire & Men's Wedding Style:
1: How far in advance should the groom start looking for his wedding attire?
Start the process 6 to 9 months before the wedding. This time frame allows for browsing, fitting, ordering custom pieces if desired, and making necessary alterations.
2: What's the difference between a tuxedo and a suit, and how do I choose?
The main difference lies in the presence of satin: tuxedos have satin lapels, buttons, and a satin side stripe down the trouser leg, while suits do not. The choice depends on the formality of your wedding and personal preference. Tuxedos are typically worn for evening and formal events, while suits can be versatile for various settings and times.
3: Can the groom wear a suit or tuxedo that’s not black?
Absolutely! While black is traditional for tuxedos and suits, contemporary trends welcome colors like navy, grey, charcoal, and even bolder choices like burgundy or green, especially for suits. The key is to choose a color that complements the wedding's theme and venue.
4: How can the groom personalize his wedding attire?
Personalization can come through in the choice of accessories, such as ties, cufflinks, pocket squares, and shoes. Unique fabrics, colors, and patterns can also help make a custom look.
5: Are rentals a good option for groom's attire?
Rentals can be a great option, especially for high-quality, formal attire that might not be worn again. Look for rental services that offer try-ons, alterations, and a wide selection of sizes and styles.
6: How should the groom's attire complement the bridal outfit or the other groom’s outfit?
The groom's attire should harmonize with their partner’s in terms of formality and style, creating a cohesive look for the couple. Communication between partners is key to ensuring their outfits complement each other well, but they should reflect each partner's individual sense of style and personality.
7: Is it necessary for the groom to have a final fitting, and if so, when?
Yes, a final fitting is crucial to ensure the attire fits perfectly. This should be scheduled 2 to 4 weeks before the wedding to accommodate any last-minute adjustments.
8: What are some tips for grooms uncomfortable in formal attire?
For grooms not used to wearing formal attire, it’s important to focus on fit and comfort during the selection process. Opt for breathable fabrics and ensure the attire is tailored to a comfortable fit. Look for ways to make the attire more “you” - replace formal dress shoes with fresh fancy kicks for a contemporary or ditch the bow tie and cufflinks for a crisp well, well-fitting dress shirt and tie. When you look good, you’ll feel good.
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