All Your Top Groomsmen Attire Questions, Answered
As you prepare to take center stage on your wedding day, it’s essential to consider the attire that complements not only the bride but also reflects your unique style. To provide expert guidance, we’ve collaborated with industry insiders Katy Farage of Farage, Sam Abi from URBBANA, and Robin McGowan, co-founder of Institchu. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of men’s wedding wear to help you make informed decisions.
Groomsmen attire typically consists of a suit that mirrors the groom’s outfit, with some minor variations in design and color. Currently, our customers are designing suits that blend classic styles with modern twists. When shopping for your wedding suits, it’s recommended to start at least six months in advance to ensure availability and allow for any necessary alterations. While the groomsmen don’t necessarily have to match exactly, a cohesive look is often desired.
To achieve this, consider coordinating colors or patterns while allowing each groomsman to express their individuality through subtle variations in their attire. Timing is crucial when ordering outfits. Allow at least three months between ordering and the big day to account for any last-minute alterations. As for the best man’s attire, it’s common practice for him to wear a suit that mirrors the groomsmen’s outfit, with some slight deviations.
One way to distinguish his attire is by introducing a subtle variation in color or pattern, as seen in the image below.
What do groomsmen typically wear?
When it comes to determining groomsmen attire, the ‘Dress Code’ on the wedding invitation serves as the foundation. According to Sam from URBBANA, groomsmen should typically wear suits or tuxedos that complement, rather than match, the bridesmaids’ dresses, as they often walk and are photographed together. The specific style and color of the attire can vary depending on the formality, location, and theme of the wedding, with options ranging from black tie to garden or beach-inspired events.
For Robin from Institchu, the key is consistency. Groomsmen will often wear a variation of the groom’s outfit to ensure the bridal party looks polished and uniform. This can involve subtle tweaks, such as adding a tie or waistcoat, or adopting different elements of the groom’s attire while maintaining a cohesive overall look.
Katy from Farage emphasizes the importance of harmony in the wedding party’s appearance, stating that traditionally, groomsmen wear a variation of what the groom is wearing, whether it’s a suit or tuxedo. Ultimately, the goal is to create a synergy between the groom and wedding party looks, regardless of the theme, resulting in a cohesive and stylish overall appearance.
What are the most common styles of wedding suits you’re seeing customers design currently?
As a wedding tailor, we’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of couples each year, which has given us a wealth of experience in crafting bespoke attire for various styles and fabrics. From vibrant colors to classic, casual, and ultra-formal designs, our expertise lies in understanding that every wedding is unique, with its own distinct character.
For formal weddings, our go-to choice remains the timeless black Merino wool tuxedo, although we’re also seeing a surge in popularity for thicker velvet dinner jackets and lightweight cream jackets. On the other hand, more relaxed celebrations often call for navy and charcoal Merino wool two-button suits, with an increasing number of couples opting to incorporate seasonal fabrics into their wedding attire.
For summer nuptials, we see a lot of demand for linens or lightweight blends in creams and pastel hues, while winter weddings often feature earthy tones like brown and olive green.
How far in advance should I be shopping for my wedding suits?
We recommend allowing at least three months prior to your special day to ensure a seamless planning process. However, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us before that – we’re more than happy to share our expertise and provide guidance on strategy and style, even if you’re still in the early stages of wedding planning.
Do the groomsmen have to match?
Thematic consistency is crucial in wedding planning, and this extends to the groomsmen’s attire. According to Katy, once the theme is established, the groomsmen can plan their outfits to complement the groom’s choice. For instance, a formal wedding would call for a three-piece tuxedo for the groom, with the groomsmen mirroring his style with a two-piece tuxedo, creating a timeless and cohesive look.
In terms of separating the groom from the best man, Robin suggests making some subtle stylistic decisions to keep the focus on the groom. While the groomsmen should match, there’s room for creative expression, whether through different ties or pocket squares in the same color theme, or even unique suit styles like double-breasted or waistcoats. Sam highlights the evolving nature of groomsmen attire, noting that traditionally, they would wear matching outfits according to the dress code.
However, some couples are now embracing mismatched wedding party looks, where accessories like ties and pocket squares can be used to create a personalized touch while wearing matching suits. Ultimately, whether to go for matching or mismatched attire depends on personal preference and style goals, but both approaches can result in a polished and memorable look.
When should the outfits be ordered?
When it comes to selecting groomsmen attire, timing is everything. According to Sam’s expert advice, it’s crucial to finalize the suits, shoes, and accessories at least two months prior to the big day. For custom-made suits and larger wedding parties featuring five or more groomsmen, it’s recommended to place orders a full six months in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free process. However, Sam emphasizes that enjoying the experience is just as important as making timely decisions.
He suggests taking things one step at a time, finalizing accessories and shoes after the suits’ alterations and second fittings. By doing so, grooms can avoid feeling overwhelmed and truly relish the process of preparing their wedding party.
Any rules of tips for a groom?
When it comes to wedding attire, Robin’s expertise is invaluable for grooms seeking perfection on their special day. He stresses that preparation is key, recommending that each groom bring at least one backup shirt to account for unexpected spills or perspiration from photo shoots. A well-planned approach to selecting attire ensures a timeless look, with advice to stick to classic styles and inject personal flair through subtle details rather than bold statements.
This timeless approach protects against the risk of photos becoming dated and subject to family jokes decades later. To complete the ensemble, Robin emphasizes the importance of a well-fitted suit, pointing out that a perfect fit will always trump an eye-catching fabric. Although made-to-measure garments offer a guarantee, off-the-rack suits require a little extra attention to get the fit just right.
A well-fitted suit ensures comfort, confidence, and prevents any embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions on the dance floor.
Does the best man wear the same thing as the groomsmen?
When it comes to dressing for a wedding, the best man often follows suit with the groomsmen in terms of attire. However, there’s no rule that says he can’t add some personal flair to make his look truly unique. According to Sam, this is a great opportunity to let the best man’s personality shine through and create a memorable appearance. With this approach, he can differentiate himself from the rest of the groomsmen without going overboard.
Some common ways to distinguish the best man’s attire include:
To give the best man a unique flair without overpowering the groom, Sam suggests several subtle yet effective strategies: * A distinct tie or bow tie color * Adding a waistcoat to his outfit * A different colored waistcoat * A distinct boutonniere style * A unique pocket square design * Different accessories like cufflinks or a tie clip The collective expertise of Katy, Sam, and Robin provides a comprehensive guide to wedding attire for the groom and groomsmen, blending traditional elements with modern trends to create a memorable and stylish celebration.
By focusing on cohesion, personalization, and timing, couples can ensure their wedding attire complements the beauty and significance of their special day. In preparation for your big day, register now for Wedded Week and unlock exclusive offers and deals from our talented partners. Whether you’re seeking exquisite bridal attire, stunning venue options, top-notch photography services, or bespoke floral arrangements, our partners have you covered.
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