Menswear 101: How to Look Your Best on Your Wedding Day
For many grooms, wedding day style is an afterthought until they realize just how much it matters. You’re not just a guest, you’re one of the main events. Your look will be captured in hundreds of photos, remembered for decades, and most importantly, it should reflect who you are.
This guide is here to help you get it right. Whether you want to keep things classic, add a modern edge, or go for something totally unexpected. We’re breaking down everything you need to know to look your absolute best.
Start With the Wedding Setting
Before you even consider colors or cuts, look at the setting and formality of your wedding. Is it a black-tie affair in a ballroom? A vineyard ceremony at golden hour? A cozy lakefront celebration?
The location and season will help narrow your options. For example, a tuxedo is appropriate (and often expected) at formal evening weddings. But a light linen suit or even tailored separates could be perfect for summer weddings.
Dress Code Decoded: What Each Level Means
Understanding dress codes is key. Even if you set the tone yourself, it’s important to follow it and guide your groomsmen accordingly.
Black Tie: Opt for a classic black tuxedo with a satin peak or shawl lapel, white dress shirt, bow tie, and patent leather shoes. A cummerbund or vest is optional but encouraged for a traditional look.
Formal / Black Tie Optional: A dark, well-tailored suit (navy, charcoal, or black) with a tie is perfect. You can wear a tux if you want to stand out more as the groom.
Semi-Formal: More room for creativity here. Medium gray, blue, or earth-toned suits work well. You might consider a patterned tie, a vest, or textured fabrics like tweed or wool blends depending on the season.
Casual or Outdoor: Think breathable fabrics—linen, cotton blends, or seersucker in warm weather. For a relaxed vibe, skip the tie and go for an open collar, but keep the suit well-fitted and structured.
Custom, Rental, or Off-the-Rack?
There’s no wrong choice here. It depends on your timeline, budget, and how much personalization you want.
Custom: The best fit and finish, with options to choose every detail. From lapels to lining. You’ll need at least 2–3 months and a few fittings.
Off-the-Rack: Convenient and cost-effective, especially from high-end retailers. Just be sure to allow time for alterations.
Rental: Ideal for formal looks you’ll likely wear only once. Modern rental services like The Black Tux or Generation Tux offer stylish tuxedos and suits delivered to your door.
Fit Is Everything
Regardless of what you wear, a well-fitted $400 suit will always look better than an ill-fitting $4,000 one. Here’s What to Watch:
Shoulders: The seam should sit right where your shoulder ends. Not drooping, not tight.
Jacket Length: It should cover your seat, not hang below it.
Trousers: A clean, straight fit with a slight break at the hem looks timeless. For a more modern look, try a cropped hem that shows some ankle (with no socks or tailored ones).
If you’re unsure, work with a trusted tailor or visit a department store with in-house alterations.
Don’t Shy Away from Color or Texture
While navy and black are timeless, more grooms are branching out with subtle twists like forest green velvet blazers, burgundy suits for fall, or beige linen in summer. Texture can also add visual interest without being loud: think wool blends, herringbone, or even corduroy for rustic settings.
Want to keep it traditional but still stand out from your groomsmen? Add a patterned vest, a unique lapel pin, or a different boutonniere.
Accessorize with Intention
The right accessories can make your look feel complete. Think of them as your finishing touches.
Tie or Bow Tie: Match the wedding formality. A silk tie or textured bow tie in a complementary color works well.
Pocket Square: A crisp white square adds polish. Want something more expressive? Go floral or printed.
Cufflinks: A chance to personalize! Monogrammed initials, heirloom pieces, or even themed designs.
Shoes: Make sure they’re clean, well-polished, and appropriate. Oxford or derby shoes in leather work for most formal weddings. Loafers or suede shoes can suit casual or outdoor settings.
Watch: Keep it sleek and timeless. Avoid bulky digital styles or overly casual straps.
Coordinate Without Matching
It’s important to look cohesive with your groomsmen and your partner but you don’t need to match exactly. Stand out subtly by choosing a different suit color, vest, or accessories. For example, if your groomsmen are in light gray, you could wear a darker charcoal version of the same suit. Or if they’re wearing ties, you could opt for a bow tie.
Final Thoughts: Dress Like the Best Version of Yourself
Your wedding day is not the time to try on a completely new persona. Instead, elevate your everyday style to something polished and timeless. You should feel comfortable, confident, and like yourself.
When you feel great in what you’re wearing, it shows. And that’s exactly what you want on a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Emily Chesky
