Embarking on the quest for the perfect wedding attire can be overwhelming, but fear not – we've got you covered. Whether you're the fortunate groom, a member of the bridal party, or an esteemed guest, here's your roadmap to suiting up and mastering your style for the grand celebration.
Before delving into the details of wedding attire, understanding the dress code is paramount. Begin by grasping the setting and vibe of the wedding, as this information typically guides the choice of your suit.
BEACH WEDDINGS
Picture light pastels or opt for neutral, natural, and ivory palettes, complemented by a crisp white shirt – perfect for a beach setting.
BLACK TIE WEDDINGS
Traditionally featuring a black tuxedo, white shirt, and a matching black bow tie, black tie events are evolving. Expect vibrant colors and luxurious fabrics like velvet, satin, and Jacquard tuxedos at more relaxed gatherings.
FORMAL WEDDINGS
A formal dress code calls for a complete suit and tie, offering the flexibility to choose between a three-piece suit or a classic tuxedo.
CASUAL WEDDINGS
Infuse creativity with color, and feel free to go tie-less. Suit separates are a popular choice for more laid-back events.
MODERN WEDDINGS
A modern look often entails a simple suit jacket and shirt, providing a canvas for experimenting with various suit colors and accessories.
The seasons act as a roadmap for determining your wedding attire. Spring and autumn, the favored seasons for weddings, grant considerable leeway in selecting the perfect wedding suit.
Yet, don't feel restricted – venture into a two-piece suit for winter warmth or embrace the sophistication of a tuxedo in the summer sun. Infuse your wardrobe choices with creativity and personality, all while prioritizing comfort, especially when facing the unpredictable elements.
For the all-time classic look, nothing compares to a sharp tuxedo. Choose from classic black or experiment with rich tones like burgundy or midnight blue. Tuxedos come in different textures like Jacquard and velvet, with various lapel styles for personalised flair.
Perfecting The Look
Complement your ensemble with a simple bow tie, well-polished black leather shoes, and a touch of metallic hardware. Lapel pins, pocket squares, and cufflinks add the perfect finishing touches. Don't forget to pair your jacket with a well-fitted tuxedo shirt for a polished appearance.
Sun, surf, and Corona’s set the tone for a beach wedding. Opt for relaxed-fitting suits in lighter fabrics and choose tones like pastel blue, ivory, or blush that harmonize with the seaside setting.
Perfecting The Look
A single flower pin adds variety to your suit, and depending on the season and weather, ties become optional.
Wineries provide a picturesque backdrop, making attire selection crucial. Start with a modern men’s suit jacket or blazer and build your look from there. For a formal touch, complete the suit with matching trousers; for a more casual vibe, experiment with suit separates.
Perfecting The Look
Even in a smart, monochromatic suit, embrace bold floral wedding ties or a pocket square that complements your look.
Classic looks never go out of style. Opt for a three- or two-piece suit for a formal and elegant appearance. Navy is a perennial favorite, and a subtle jacket pattern, like a light check, adds a touch of pop.
Perfecting The Look
Modern suits distinguish themselves with unique jacket cuts, tapered trousers, and various lapel and jacket vent styles, providing a more tailored appearance.
Perfecting Your Look
Elevate your ensemble with well-coordinated accessories, such as a matching pocket square, boutonniere, silver cufflinks, or a tie clip.
Country wedding attire aligns with modern wedding aesthetics. A textured two-piece suit is a popular choice, with ties being optional. Neutral tones harmonize with the rustic setting.
Perfecting The Look
Accessories play a vital role in adding presence and flair to your outfit. A flower pin or boutonniere injects color and personality into your look.
For a cocktail wedding, your wardrobe becomes a canvas for self-expression. Experiment with colors, patterns, and textures, whether it's a bold burgundy velvet jacket or a sleek open-collared look.
Perfecting The Look
Finish your cocktail attire with finesse. Pair a vibrant jacket with a black silk tie and a white dress shirt, or add a dash of color with a paisley tie or a tan leather belt.
Casual weddings offer the most flexibility in dress code. Let your personality shine through your jacket and shirt combo, and ties become optional. Bold patterns on your jacket can take center stage.
Perfecting The Look
Leather dress shoes or loafers and a pocket square add an element of elegance. Ensure coordination with your tie or shirt, especially if you're going tieless.
Groomsmen traditionally align their attire with the groom's outfit, with variations determined by the groom's preference. Accessories like cuff links, footwear, and tie clips allow for personalization.
Stealing the Spotlight: Wedding Guest Etiquette
For those aiming to stand out at the wedding, start with your suit. Avoid classic shades like navy and grey to avoid overshadowing the groom. Lighter tones work well for summer weddings, while darker hues are ideal for colder seasons.
Perfecting The Look
Ensure your outfit is flawless a few days before the wedding – iron your shirt, shine your shoes, and have your jacket and trousers at the ready. The same applies to your accessories – the last thing you want is to be late due to a misplaced tie.
Is it acceptable to forgo a suit at a wedding?
The dress code holds the key. While a suit jacket or blazer is generally safe, the choice between suit separates or a blazer and chinos depends on the wedding's style.
What to wear to a suit-less wedding?
Opt for a simple shirt and trousers combo for suit-less weddings. Lighter linen fabrics, chinos, or tailored shorts are ideal for warmer weather, while a smart overcoat is recommended for colder climates.
Which colors to avoid at a wedding?
As a guest, avoid outshining the groom by steering clear of white and glitter. Ensure your outfit doesn't match the groomsmen if you have insider information.
Can men wear jeans to a wedding?
Generally, no, especially not aged jeans with ripped kneecaps. However, for casual events, tailored pants bridging the gap between jeans and chinos might be acceptable with prior confirmation.
What not to wear to a wedding as a guest?
Exercise common sense with colors, avoiding all-black ensembles and excessive color. Hats aren't typically part of the dress code, and casual footwear like sandals, flip flops, and sneakers should be avoided even at casual weddings.
Navigating the diverse landscape of wedding fashion becomes effortless with these insights, ensuring you're impeccably dressed for the celebration.
