When it comes to a wedding, all eyes are on the bride and groom, but that doesn’t mean the groomsmen should fade into the background. Their attire plays a crucial role in setting the tone and style of the wedding. Whether it’s a laid-back beach ceremony or an ultra-formal affair, choosing the right groomsmen attire ensures everyone looks sharp and cohesive. So, how do you go about picking the perfect groomsmen attire? Let’s break it down.
Why Groomsmen Attire Matters
Weddings are a blend of style, tradition, and personal taste. Groomsmen attire is more than just picking suits—it’s about complementing the wedding theme, color palette, and the groom’s outfit. The right attire enhances the overall aesthetic, ensuring the groomsmen look cohesive while standing out in their own way.
But here’s the thing: groomsmen attire isn’t one-size-fits-all. With so many options available, finding the perfect balance between formal and fun can be a challenge. So, what exactly should you consider? Let’s start with the basics.
Types of Groomsmen Attire
- Classic Tuxedo
- A black tuxedo with a bow tie is timeless. Perfect for a black-tie wedding, this look exudes sophistication and elegance.
- When to wear it: Black-tie or formal evening weddings.
- Pro tip: Match the groomsmen’s tuxedos with the groom’s for a unified look. Accessories like cufflinks and pocket squares can be personalized to reflect each groomsman’s style.
- Suit Up
- A well-fitted suit is a versatile choice for any wedding. Whether it’s a navy blue or light grey, a suit can be dressed up or down depending on the venue and season.
- When to wear it: Semi-formal or daytime weddings.
- Pro tip: Opt for matching ties or boutonnières to maintain cohesion among the groomsmen while allowing flexibility in suit styles or colors.
- Beach-Ready Linen
- For tropical or beach weddings, linen suits offer a laid-back yet stylish option. The breathable fabric keeps things cool while still looking polished.
- When to wear it: Destination or outdoor summer weddings.
- Pro tip: Ditch the tie for a more relaxed vibe. Light colors like beige or sand work beautifully for a beach setting.
- Themed Attire
- If the wedding is following a particular theme (vintage, rustic, etc.), groomsmen attire can reflect that. Think suspenders, tweed vests, or even cowboy boots!
- When to wear it: Theme-specific or unconventional weddings.
- Pro tip: Have fun with it! Just ensure that the attire doesn’t steal attention from the bride and groom.
Matching the Groomsmen with the Groom
One of the most important rules in picking groomsmen attire is ensuring they complement—but don’t outshine—the groom. The groom should be the centerpiece, and his attire should reflect this.
- Coordinated Colors: If the groom is wearing a blue suit, the groomsmen can wear a lighter or darker shade of blue. This creates a cohesive look without making everyone look identical.
- Accessories: Let the groom stand out by giving him unique accessories like a different tie, boutonnière, or pocket square while keeping the groomsmen’s accents complementary.
Seasonal Groomsmen Attire
Just like brides often choose their wedding dress based on the season, groomsmen attire should also reflect the time of year.
Spring and Summer
- Fabrics: Light and breathable fabrics like linen or cotton.
- Colors: Pastels, light grey, or beige work well for warmer months.
- Style: Lighter suits or even dress pants with suspenders for a more casual vibe.
Fall and Winter
- Fabrics: Wool or heavier fabrics are ideal for cooler temperatures.
- Colors: Darker shades like burgundy, forest green, or classic black add a rich, warm touch to the occasion.
- Style: Layered looks, such as a vest under the jacket or heavier suits, are both practical and stylish.
Choosing the Right Accessories
Accessories can make or break an outfit. Here’s a breakdown of essential groomsmen accessories:
- Ties and Bow Ties
- Whether you go with ties or bow ties largely depends on the formality of the event. Bow ties scream formal, while ties can be more laid-back or even whimsical depending on the print.
- Pro tip: Coordinate the tie or bow tie with the bridesmaids’ dresses for a polished look.
- Pocket Squares
- A classic accessory that adds a touch of flair to any suit or tuxedo. Stick with a solid color or go for a subtle pattern to complement the groomsmen’s attire.
- Pro tip: If the groomsmen are wearing identical suits, mix things up by choosing unique pocket square patterns for each person.
- Cufflinks
- These small but mighty accessories offer an opportunity to personalize the groomsmen’s look. Whether they’re classic silver or quirky designs reflecting each groomsman’s personality, cufflinks are a great finishing touch.
- Pro tip: Consider gifting personalized cufflinks as a thank-you gift for your groomsmen.
- Shoes
- Shoes are often an overlooked part of groomsmen attire, but they can either elevate or detract from the look. Leather oxfords or loafers are great choices for formal weddings, while desert boots or even sneakers can work for casual settings.
- Pro tip: Ensure all the groomsmen are wearing shoes in the same color family to maintain visual harmony.
Budgeting for Groomsmen Attire
Let’s face it—being in a wedding party can be expensive. To ease the financial burden, it’s important to consider the budget when choosing groomsmen attire. Here are some tips for keeping costs down:
- Rental Options: Many companies offer affordable rental packages for tuxedos and suits. This is especially useful for black-tie weddings where the attire might not get much use after the big day.
- Mix-and-Match: Instead of insisting that all groomsmen wear the same suit, allow them to choose similar styles within a specific color palette. This can help them find something within their budget.
- Group Discounts: Some stores offer discounts for wedding parties, so it’s worth inquiring about special deals or packages.
FAQs on Groomsmen Attire
Q: Do groomsmen have to match the groom? A: While groomsmen don’t have to be an exact match, their attire should complement the groom’s outfit. The groom should stand out with subtle differences like a unique tie or boutonnière.
Q: Can groomsmen wear different styles? A: Absolutely! As long as there’s a cohesive theme, groomsmen can wear different styles or colors that suit their personalities and comfort levels.
Q: Is it okay for groomsmen to wear black to a wedding? A: Black suits or tuxedos are a classic and formal choice for weddings, especially for evening or black-tie affairs. Just make sure it aligns with the overall wedding theme.
Q: How far in advance should groomsmen attire be arranged? A: Aim to have the groomsmen’s attire sorted at least two months before the wedding to allow time for any necessary adjustments or alterations.
Q: Should groomsmen pay for their own attire? A: It’s common for groomsmen to pay for their own attire, but the groom or couple may choose to cover certain expenses, like accessories or alterations.
Conclusion: Dress to Impress
When it comes to groomsmen attire, the key is finding the right balance between formality, style, and cohesion. Whether you’re going for a classic tuxedo, a sleek suit, or something a bit more unconventional, the most important thing is that the groomsmen feel comfortable and look great standing beside the groom.
Don’t forget to factor in the season, venue, and wedding theme when making your final decisions. And of course, have fun with the process—after all, it’s a celebration!
