Groomsmen's Tux: To Change Or Not To Change?

Deciding what the groomsmen should wear on the big day is an important part of wedding planning. While the groomsmen traditionally wear the same outfit as the groom, there is no rule prohibiting the groom from wearing a different outfit from their groomsmen. The groomsmen can wear suits or tuxedos depending on the formality of the wedding. Tuxedos are usually chosen for more formal affairs, while suits work well for more casual weddings.

Tuxedo vs suit: which is best for the groom?

While planning a wedding, one of the biggest decisions for the groom is deciding between wearing a tuxedo or a suit. Here are some factors to consider when making this choice:

Formality

The formality of the wedding is a key factor in deciding between a tuxedo and a suit. Tuxedos are considered more formal and are typically worn at evening weddings, especially those with formal, black-tie, or white-tie dress codes. Suits offer more flexibility and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They are a good choice for daytime events, semi-formal celebrations, or weddings with no specific dress code.

Time of Day

Tuxedos are considered evening attire and are typically worn after 5 pm. Suits, on the other hand, can be worn at any time of the day. If you're having an afternoon or morning wedding, a suit would be more appropriate.

Venue and Theme

The venue and theme of the wedding can also help guide your decision. If you're having a beach wedding or a rustic country wedding, a tuxedo might look out of place, and a suit would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you're having a formal hotel ballroom wedding, a tuxedo might be more suitable.

Personal Style and Comfort

Ultimately, you want to feel comfortable and authentic on your wedding day. If you usually prefer more laid-back outfits, a suit might be the best option. However, if you want to step out of your comfort zone and feel extra special, a tuxedo could be the way to go. Try on both styles and see what feels right for you.

Cost

Another important consideration is cost. Tuxedos tend to be more expensive than suits, whether you're renting or buying. An entry-level suit typically costs around $200, while a tuxedo starts at around $400. However, renting a tuxedo is a popular option, with brands offering complete packages, including a shirt, shoes, and accessories, for $200 or less.

Future Use

If you're buying your wedding outfit, consider whether you'll wear it again. Suits are more versatile and can be worn to various occasions, from work functions to nights out. Tuxedos, being more formal, have fewer opportunities to be worn again, so you may want to rent instead of buying.

In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the tuxedo vs. suit debate for the groom. The most important thing is to choose an outfit that aligns with the formality, time of day, venue, and theme of your wedding, while also reflecting your personal style and comfort.

Should the groomsmen wear matching outfits?

There are many considerations to take into account when deciding whether or not the groomsmen should wear matching outfits. While it is not a requirement for the groomsmen to wear matching outfits, it is a long-standing tradition. Matching outfits for the groomsmen can provide a sense of cohesion and uniformity to the wedding party, especially in photographs. It can also help to ensure that everyone is dressed in the same level of formality and adhere to the designated dress code.

However, there are also benefits to allowing the groomsmen to wear mismatched outfits. It can add an interesting dimension to the overall style of the wedding and allow each groomsman to express their personality and style. Additionally, it may be more practical and cost-effective, as groomsmen may already own a suit that generally matches the desired colour and material.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the groomsmen should wear matching outfits rests with the couple. If they choose to have matching outfits, it is important to provide clear guidelines to the groomsmen and allow them to be involved in the selection process. On the other hand, if the couple opts for a mismatched look, they should still provide some parameters to ensure that the groomsmen's outfits complement each other and fit within the desired colour palette and level of formality.

• Wedding theme and formality: For a black-tie or formal event, matching outfits may be more appropriate, while a less formal affair may allow for more flexibility and creativity.
• Personal style: If the groomsmen have very different styles, it may be best to allow them to wear different suits or incorporate slight variations in their outfits.
• Coordination with the bridesmaids: The groomsmen's outfits should complement the attire of the bridesmaids. This can be achieved through matching colours or styles.
• Comfort and practicality: Consider the weather and venue of the wedding. Lighter colours and casual fabrics may be more suitable for warmer months, daytime, or outdoor weddings.
• Cost: Renting or purchasing matching outfits for the groomsmen can be expensive. Allowing them to wear their own suits or incorporating slight variations can help reduce costs.

What are the pros and cons of matching groomsmen outfits?

Matching groomsmen outfits can create a cohesive look that follows the wedding's theme and makes planning easier. However, it may clash with individual styles and lack a personal touch.

Pros of Matching Groomsmen Outfits:

• Cohesion: Having all the groomsmen in matching outfits creates a unified and cohesive look for the wedding party. It presents a sense of uniformity and harmony in the group.
• Wedding Planning: Choosing a matching outfit for the groomsmen simplifies the wedding planning process. It eliminates the need for coordinating different styles and ensures everyone is dressed appropriately.
• Theme Consistency: Matching groomsmen outfits can help reinforce the theme of the wedding. By aligning their attire with the chosen theme, such as rustic, modern, or formal, the groomsmen contribute to the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the event.

Cons of Matching Groomsmen Outfits:

• Individual Style Clashes: Requiring groomsmen to wear identical outfits may not accommodate their unique styles and personalities. Each groomsman has their own fashion sense, and a matching outfit may not suit everyone equally well.
• Lack of Personal Touch: Allowing groomsmen to choose their own outfits or incorporate personal touches can make the wedding more special and memorable. A matching outfit may be seen as a restriction on their ability to express themselves and showcase their individuality.

Ultimately, the decision to have matching groomsmen outfits depends on the couple's preference, the level of formality desired, and the overall theme of the wedding. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages to make an informed choice that aligns with the vision for the special day.

What are the options for groomsmen attire?

Deciding on the attire for your groomsmen is an important part of wedding planning. There are many options to choose from, and you can make this process more fun than stressful. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on the attire for your groomsmen:

Cost

Your groomsmen could have different financial situations, so it's essential to consider their budgets when picking out their formalwear. Groomsmen traditionally pay for their attire, so choosing something accessible to everyone is important. Renting suits is often more affordable than buying them, and renting also relieves the stress of having to match individual purchases. However, buying a suit means the groomsmen can wear it again and have it fitted and customised.

Wedding Theme, Style, and Location

The formality, theme, and style of your wedding should guide the attire for your groomsmen. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, the groomsmen could wear linen pants and nice white shirts instead of tuxedos. If you're getting married in a barn, suspenders and bow ties might be more appropriate than full suits. Conversely, a black-tie event calls for three-piece suits. The season and time of day are also important considerations; you want your groomsmen to be comfortable. For example, a black velvet jacket tuxedo might be too warm for a summer afternoon wedding.

Bride and Bridesmaids' Attire

To create a cohesive picture at the top of the aisle, the bridesmaids and groomsmen should wear outfits that complement each other. You don't have to match their vests to the bridesmaids' dresses, but knowing what your partner's friends are wearing can help you dress your party accordingly.

Alternatives to the Three-Piece Suit

You can opt for alternatives to the traditional three-piece suit. Some options include two-piece suits (no vest), dress pants and shirts with suspenders and no jackets, "beach wear", dress pants and shirts with a sweater or cardigan instead of a jacket, or even dress shirts and clean blue jeans with vests and/or ties.

Non-Traditional Shoes

Depending on the type of wedding you're having, you could have your groomsmen wear suits with fresh sneakers, Converse, cowboy boots, or other non-traditional shoes instead of dress shoes. Dress shoes can be uncomfortable, so non-traditional shoes might encourage your friends to dance and enjoy the reception more.

Matching Details

Whether you choose a specific look or let your groomsmen take the lead, you can tie the whole thing together with some matching details. Pick out socks, ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, or boutonnieres for your groomsmen to make them feel special on your big day.

Complete Match, Slight Variations, Total Mismatch, or Subtle Details

You have a range of options for how closely the groomsmen's attire matches yours. A complete match means the groomsmen wear the same suit or tuxedo, shoes, belt, neckwear, and boutonnieres as you. Slight variations can be a different suit or neckwear, or a different colour or texture. A total mismatch means the groomsmen wear a completely different outfit, including suit/tuxedo, shoes, and accessories. Subtle details can include different pins, lapels, and pocket squares, with everything else identical.

Making the Groom Stand Out

While it's not required, you may want to make the groom's outfit special and distinguishing. This could be a different colour or style for the suit, tie, dress shirt, or accessories.

Tuxedos vs. Suits

Tuxedos are preferable for formal weddings, especially fancier evening events (black-tie). Suits are more versatile and suitable for any time or occasion, and they allow for more personalisation options. Tuxedos usually include different accessories like bowties, suspenders, vests/cummerbunds, and cufflinks.

Suit Colours

When it comes to suit colours, black suits are the most common and formal option. Grey suits always complement any colour scheme, and blue suits add a splash of colour to your wedding party.

Groomsmen with Different Styles or Body Types

If your groomsmen have different styles or body types, you may need to offer a few different suit choices or set some parameters and let them wear whatever they're comfortable in.

In conclusion, there are many options for groomsmen attire, and the right choice will depend on your wedding's theme, style, location, and your personal preferences. Remember to have fun with the process and choose an option that makes you and your groomsmen feel comfortable and confident.

How can the groom stand out from the groomsmen?

While it was traditional for the wedding party to wear identical clothing, it has now become common for the groom to stand out from the groomsmen. There are several ways to achieve this.

Firstly, the groom could wear a different coloured vest and tie, or for a more subtle approach, a slightly different boutonnière. The groom could also opt for a different coloured shirt or tie than the groomsmen. For example, the groomsmen could wear coloured ties to match the bridesmaids' dresses, while the groom wears a white or off-white tie to coordinate with the bride's gown. The groom could also wear a tie in a brighter shade or a different, yet complementary, colour to those of the groomsmen.

Another option is for the groom to wear a tuxedo or suit jacket that has satin or grosgrain lapels, while the groomsmen wear standard versions. The groom could also consider wearing an ascot or pocket square, or a brighter colour than the groomsmen.

The groom can also stand out by wearing a different boutonnière to the groomsmen. This could be made with different types of flowers, different coloured blooms, or be larger in size.

If the groomsmen are wearing suit jackets, the groom could switch it up by wearing a tuxedo jacket instead. The groom could also choose a different fabric to create a visual contrast. For example, the groomsmen could be dressed in polyester suits, while the groom wears a luxurious wool-blend style.

The groom could also wear a different coloured suit or tuxedo from the rest of the group. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing light grey suits, the groom could wear a dark grey ensemble.

Printed and patterned accessories can also help the groom stand out. A tie is the easiest way to add a print, but prints can also be incorporated through socks, suspenders, a pocket square, or even a shirt or jacket.

Lastly, if the groomsmen are wearing long neckties, the groom could consider wearing a bow tie instead.

Frequently asked questions