What to Wear for Men – The Wedding
Groom, Best Man, Groomsmen or Guest, Wardrobe Suggestions
Apr 17, 2009
Attending a wedding, whether one is the groom, the best man, the groomsmen, or simply a guest attending the service, can be a little tricky when it comes to figuring out what to wear. Thankfully there are a few general tips and suggestions that can save you a great deal of embarassment and should be affordable for most.
Is It Formal, or Dress Casual?
Both the traditionally formal wedding and a less restrictive ceremony have their merits and both are extremely popular options being taken advantage of by contemporary newlyweds.
If the wedding service is more traditional, a suit of clothes is the bare minimum to consider if one is standing for the groom. Normally, the bride and groom decide on a colour scheme with regards to the shirts and/or ties and so black is the preferred colour for the suit or tuxedo.
A great option for many men who do not normally attend formal affairs is to go, as a group, to a men's outfitter and purchase the same suit, having it altered to them personally. This is superior in many ways to a tuxedo in that the groomsmen may keep the suit after the wedding, and the fit will likely be far superior to that of a rental garment. That being said, the option of a tuxedo rental is still on the table and may be preferable for some who do not wish to purchase a suit.
If the wedding is a bit more casual, it is still recommended that the groom be wearing a full suit at the very least – though a tie may be optional. The groomsmen should invest in dress slacks and sport shirts – even guests should make an attempt to wear a nice shirt, sweater, and pants in respect of the wedding service itself. Dress denim may be worn, but leave your work or day jeans at home alongside the t-shirt!
Accessories and Colours
Jewel tones and other bright colours are very popular in the modern wedding service - men commonly choose colours such as emerald, pink, royal blue, and purple in their shirts, ties, pocket square and boutonierre. Traditionally most men are co-ordinated with the bride and the bridal party. though with the introduction of same-sex marriages and other less traditional services there truly is a much more acceptable range of fashion tastes and sensibility involved in a modern wedding.
With regards to accessories, normally the groom also wears a boutonierre, that is a flower or bud that tends to match the bride's gown and accessories, although many men prefer or favour the pocket square. It may be overkill to wear both, as the colours may find themselves clashing or in competition, making the look too busy. Boutonierres are both classic and beautiful and make a wonderful keepsake – they come highly recommended.
Weddings and receptions are a great way to make use of more formal shirts that one might have in their closet – it's a perfect time to wear french cuffed shirts with beautiful cufflinks for example. As a guest, one is afforded a great deal more leeway with regards to their colour palette and may wear virtually any piece of dress clothing in acceptable condition.
A marriage is a beautiful contract between two people who have decided to share the rest of their lives together – and being invited to attend a service in any capacity is both an honour and a privilege. Visiting the proper gravity and respect upon the service is of utmost importance so take the time to co-ordinate your dress and ensure that you look your very best.
Other Articles Pertaining to Weddings as well as Men's Lifestyle and Fashion
- Dressing Your Groomsmen and Renting Tuxedos
- How to Write a Best Man's Speech
- Social Debates : Same-Sex Marriage
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