The big day is approaching—your wedding! With so many details to plan, choosing the right wedding suit is an important decision. There will be plenty of photos taken, not just by the photographer but also by your guests, so you don’t want to regret a last-minute purchase from a discount store. In this article, we’ll go over some key aspects of putting together a stylish wedding outfit for men.
What’s the Difference Between a Wedding Suit and a Regular Suit?
You can wear any suit to your wedding as long as it fits the overall theme of the day. Some weddings have a more relaxed dress code, where a smart-casual outfit is perfectly fine. A classic wedding suit, however, has a more refined design, a timeless cut, and is typically made from higher-quality fabrics. Because of this, it’s usually not something you’d wear to the office. Many grooms also choose to have their suit tailored for the perfect fit, making wedding suits more expensive than regular business attire. At Suitable, we offer a wide selection of tuxedos and tailcoats, perfect for grooms and wedding guests alike.
What Goes Into a Wedding Outfit?
Since a wedding is a deeply personal event, every groom’s suit is unique. The choice of color, fabric, and overall style all depend on the dress code and personal preferences. Beyond the essentials—a jacket and trousers—there are a few key clothing items and accessories that can complete your wedding look.
Dress Shirt
A white dress shirt is a timeless and versatile option that pairs well with any suit color. You can also choose an off-white wedding shirt, which works beautifully with various themes and complements the bride’s dress. Light blue, pastel, and even black dress shirts are also popular choices.
Tie or Bow Tie
Classic or trendy? For a traditional wedding, a solid or subtly textured tie is a safe and stylish option. If you prefer a modern look, go for a slimmer tie or a bold color. A bow tie is another great choice for a wedding suit, and you can go as understated or as eye-catching as you like.
Cufflinks
Cufflinks add a refined touch to your dress shirt. Whether you prefer bold colors, premium metals, or unique designs, we offer a wide selection at Suitable. And with our great price-quality ratio, you don’t have to break the bank to look stylish.
Suspenders
Suspenders add a playful yet elegant element to your wedding look. With a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials available, you can easily find a pair that matches your wedding style. If you’ve never worn suspenders before, don’t worry—we have a step-by-step guide to help you out.
Vest
A vest (or waistcoat) adds both warmth and sophistication to your outfit, especially for fall and winter weddings. It’s also a great way to introduce color or subtle patterns to your look. At Suitable, we offer stylish wedding vests made from high-quality, glossy fabrics for an extra touch of elegance.
Pocket Square
A pocket square is a classic accessory for weddings and other formal events. It’s a small fabric square that sits in your jacket’s breast pocket, adding a pop of color or texture. Choose a pocket square that contrasts nicely with your suit to create a stylish effect.
Dress Shoes
Worn-out sneakers have no place at a wedding! Fortunately, there are many elegant dress shoes that you can wear not just on your wedding day but for years to come. Leather and suede options are great choices. If you’re having a summer wedding, consider lighter shoes or loafers.
What Colors and Patterns Work Best for a Wedding
Before picking a color, think about the season. In summer, lighter shades like beige, light gray, or pastels are common, while winter weddings call for deeper tones such as navy, olive green, and burgundy. A subtle check or stripe pattern can add charm to your outfit, but avoid large, distracting prints. The key to a stylish wedding suit is finding the right balance between classic and modern. Choose colors and patterns that reflect your personality and complement your hair, eyes, and skin tone.
Should You Buy or Rent a Wedding Suit?
At some point, every groom asks: Should I buy or rent my suit? The answer depends on your budget and personal preference. If you rarely wear suits, renting might be the best option—it’s affordable, and with a little research, you can find a high-quality rental at a reasonable price.
However, if you wear suits regularly or simply like the idea of having a wedding suit in your wardrobe, buying one is a smart investment. In that case, opt for a versatile color like navy, gray, or brown. These shades are appropriate for many occasions, ensuring you get plenty of use out of your wedding suit.
What Are Some Alternative Wedding Outfit Ideas?
Your wedding, your rules! A traditional suit isn’t your only option. You might want to incorporate cultural elements into your look, such as a special belt or bracelet. Some grooms prefer to mix unexpected pieces, like pairing a lightweight turtleneck with a modern blazer and chinos.
The season also plays a role. For a summer wedding, linen shirts and shorts can be stylish and comfortable—especially for a beach ceremony, where going barefoot might be the best choice! In winter, layering a wool sweater over tailored trousers can create a sophisticated yet cozy look.
Practical Tips for Every Groom
- Start shopping at least two months in advance to allow time for exchanges or tailoring.
- Choose a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Weddings can be long and tiring, so comfort is key.
- Ask friends and family for input if you’re unsure about your outfit—they might offer valuable insights.
- Keep accessories simple. A subtle watch or bracelet is often better than flashy jewelry that steals attention.
- Buy your wedding outfit from one store to ensure a coordinated look and expert styling advice.
