When it comes to planning a wedding, every detail matters. From the flowers to the venue, the cake to the photography, every choice is a reflection of the couple’s style and personality. One often overlooked but crucial aspect of a wedding is the groomsmen attire. These are the guys who stand beside the groom on his big day, so naturally, their attire should complement the occasion’s formality and theme. Choosing the right look for your groomsmen can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you’re aiming for a cohesive yet stylish group.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about groomsmen attire. Whether you’re leaning toward classic tuxedos, modern suits, or something entirely unique, we’ve got you covered.
Groomsmen Attire
Groomsmen attire serves as a crucial element in your wedding’s overall aesthetic. While the bride and groom often steal the spotlight, the groomsmen’s outfits should harmonize with the overall theme and add to the visual appeal. Coordinating groomsmen attire can also enhance wedding photos and ensure that everything looks polished.
Before diving into specific attire options, there are a few questions you might want to ask yourself: What kind of wedding theme are you going for? Will the groomsmen wear suits or tuxedos? How formal or relaxed should the attire be? Once you have answers to these questions, you can start narrowing down your options.
Key Considerations for Choosing Groomsmen Attire
- Matching the Wedding Theme
It’s essential that groomsmen attire matches the overall theme of the wedding. A formal black-tie wedding calls for a different look than a casual beachside ceremony. For formal events, tuxedos are a traditional choice, while suits or even semi-formal ensembles may be more appropriate for laid-back gatherings.
- Complementing the Groom’s Look
The groomsmen’s attire should complement—not outshine—the groom. Think of their outfits as the supporting cast in a movie where the groom is the leading man. If the groom is wearing a tuxedo, the groomsmen should likely follow suit. However, if the groom opts for a more casual ensemble, the groomsmen’s outfits should align accordingly.
- Colors and Coordination
One common trend is to have the groomsmen wear outfits in a similar color scheme to the bridesmaids. This creates a visually cohesive look in wedding photos and keeps the overall aesthetic uniform. Neutral tones like grey, black, or navy are timeless choices, but for more adventurous weddings, don’t shy away from adding a pop of color. Consider coordinating ties, pocket squares, or socks for a fun and unified look.
Groomsmen Attire Options: The Classics
Let’s dive into some of the most popular groomsmen attire options, covering everything from timeless classics to modern styles.
- Tuxedos
If you’re going for a formal, black-tie affair, tuxedos are the go-to choice for groomsmen attire. These typically come in black or midnight blue, paired with a bow tie and cummerbund or waistcoat.
- Pros: Timeless, elegant, and perfect for formal weddings.
- Cons: Can be expensive and might feel too stiff for more casual events.
- Suits
Suits offer a more versatile option for groomsmen attire. They’re appropriate for semi-formal weddings and can range from classic black or navy to lighter colors like grey or tan for daytime or summer weddings.
- Pros: Versatile and wearable for other occasions.
- Cons: Less formal than tuxedos, may not fit a black-tie event.
- Mix and Match Suits
Want something unique? Allow your groomsmen to wear suits of their choice, but within a specified color palette. For example, all groomsmen can wear shades of grey or blue, allowing for individuality while maintaining a cohesive look.
- Pros: Gives personality to the wedding party, less rigid than matching suits.
- Cons: May look disjointed if not planned carefully.
- Casual Attire
For beach or rustic weddings, more casual options like slacks, suspenders, and button-down shirts can work wonderfully. These outfits provide a laid-back, yet stylish look, especially for outdoor ceremonies.
- Pros: Comfortable and appropriate for casual settings.
- Cons: May not be formal enough for traditional weddings.
Accessorizing Groomsmen Attire: The Details Matter
While the suit or tuxedo might be the main attraction, the accessories are what really elevate the groomsmen’s look.
- Ties and Bowties
For tuxedos, bow ties are a classic choice. However, if your wedding is more semi-formal or casual, you can opt for ties that complement the theme and color palette. Fun patterns, such as stripes or polka dots, can add a touch of personality.
- Pocket Squares
A pocket square is an easy way to introduce a pop of color or a pattern. Coordinating the pocket square with the bride’s bouquet or bridesmaids’ dresses can create a seamless look.
- Boutonnieres
These small floral accents pinned to the lapel are a wedding tradition. Make sure the boutonnieres coordinate with the wedding’s overall floral arrangements.
- Socks
Why not have a little fun with socks? Whether you opt for matching socks for all groomsmen or let them express their personality with colorful or quirky patterns, socks can be a great way to add flair.
- Shoes
Don’t overlook footwear! Classic black or brown leather shoes are safe bets, but for more relaxed weddings, loafers or even trendy sneakers can make an appearance.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Groomsmen Attire
Let’s face it—weddings can get expensive, and asking your groomsmen to invest in pricey attire can be a lot to ask. Here are some budget-friendly ideas:
- Rent instead of buy: Tuxedo rental companies offer package deals for groomsmen.
- Choose affordable brands: There are plenty of affordable suit brands that offer high-quality looks without the hefty price tag.
- Provide accessories: As a thoughtful gesture, consider gifting your groomsmen matching ties, cufflinks, or socks as part of their attire.
FAQs About Groomsmen Attire
Q: Should groomsmen’s attire match exactly?
Not necessarily. It’s more important that the overall look is cohesive. Groomsmen can wear variations of the same color palette or style, allowing for a personalized touch.
Q: Do groomsmen need to wear tuxedos?
Not unless the wedding is a formal, black-tie affair. Suits are an excellent alternative for most weddings.
Q: Can groomsmen wear different colored suits?
Absolutely. As long as the colors complement each other and fit the wedding theme, mixed suit colors can look stylish and modern.
Q: How far in advance should groomsmen order their attire?
Ideally, groomsmen should have their outfits ordered or rented at least two months before the wedding to allow time for any necessary adjustments.
Q: What’s the role of the groom in selecting groomsmen attire?
The groom typically has the final say in groomsmen attire, ensuring it complements his own outfit and the wedding theme.
Conclusion
Groomsmen attire is more than just a formality—it’s an opportunity to make your wedding party look sharp and cohesive. Whether you opt for classic tuxedos, tailored suits, or something more laid-back, the goal is to ensure the groomsmen feel confident and look dapper while complementing the overall wedding aesthetic. With thoughtful coordination and attention to detail, your groomsmen will not only complement the groom but also enhance the overall wedding experience.
