The Best Man's Guide To Wedding Attire

The best man at a wedding has a lot of responsibilities, from holding the rings to giving a speech, and his choice of attire is no exception. The best man's outfit should complement the groom's without being too similar or overwhelming. It is customary for the best man and the groom to choose their suits together, preferably from the same tailor, to ensure a unified look. If this is not possible, the best man should find out what the groom is wearing and have his tailor work with that.

The key is continuity; the best man's outfit should be a variation on the groom's, with subtle differences that set him apart from the other groomsmen. For example, if the groom is wearing a white dinner jacket, the best man should wear black. If the groom has chosen a double-breasted coat, the best man might opt for a single-breasted style. The same principle applies to accessories – if the groom is wearing a red rose, the best man could choose a white one.

The best man's attire will also depend on the type of wedding (formal, semi-formal, casual, beach), the location (indoors, outdoors, church, hall), and the time of day. For a formal wedding, a dark-coloured suit is usually recommended, while a casual wedding might call for a blazer and dress pants or chinos. Beach weddings often call for lightweight fabrics and relaxed styles, while city weddings may require a sleek and modern ensemble.

Ultimately, the best man should aim to look his best while supporting the groom and the overall aesthetic harmony of the wedding party.

Dressing for the season

The best man's attire should complement the groom's without matching exactly or overshadowing him. The best man's outfit should be a "younger sibling" of the groom's.

Spring and Summer Weddings

• Warmer weather calls for light-coloured suits and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and seersucker.
• Opt for lighter colours like beige, light grey, or pastels to reflect sunlight and keep cool.
• For a beach or garden wedding, a light grey or blue suit can be a good alternative to the typical tan or khaki suit.
• If the wedding is held outdoors, you may want to consider a floral tie with a light-coloured suit.
• Accessories should be kept to a minimum, with perhaps a linen pocket square or a light silk tie.
• Feel free to skip the socks!

Fall and Winter Weddings

• Layering is key for fall weddings as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Consider wearing a vest that can be easily removed if it gets too warm.
• For winter weddings, richer fabrics and deeper colours such as navy, forest green, and burgundy can add a dramatic flair.
• Accessories like a woollen tie, leather gloves, and a cashmere scarf will keep you warm and stylish.
• A well-chosen overcoat can be the perfect final layer for a winter wedding.

Dressing for the venue

When it comes to choosing an outfit for a wedding, the venue is an important factor to consider. Here are some tips for the best man to dress appropriately for different wedding venues:

Beach Wedding

For a beach wedding, lightweight and breathable fabrics are key. Go for a linen suit or a blend of linen and cotton in neutral colours like beige, tan, or light blue. You can also opt for a light grey or blue suit to stand out from the typical crowd of khaki suits. A sharp shirt and chinos or dressy shorts will also work for a more casual look. Don't forget to swap out closed shoes for sandals or loafers.

Cruise Ship Wedding

Cruise ship weddings can vary in formality, but a white dinner jacket is a perfect choice for a formal event. If the dress code is more relaxed, choose your suit colour based on the weather—lighter colours for warm weather and darker colours for cooler temperatures.

Mountain Wedding

For a wedding in the mountains, it's best to stick to dark colours, and a 3-piece suit will provide extra warmth. Add a tie with a rugged texture to complete the look.

Garden Wedding

For an outdoor garden wedding, opt for light and airy fabrics in soft, subtle colours like pastels. A floral tie or pocket square can add a charming touch. Finish off the look with comfortable shoes suitable for strolling through the flowers.

Ballroom or Hotel Wedding

For a formal wedding in a ballroom or hotel, the dress code is typically black-tie or formal. A tuxedo or a dark-coloured suit, such as charcoal grey or navy blue, is most appropriate. Don't forget to add elegant accessories like cufflinks and a pocket square.

Church or Hall Wedding

If the wedding is held in a church or hall, the dress code is usually formal or semi-formal. A well-fitted dark-coloured suit is a good choice. Experiment with accessories like tie bars and cufflinks to add a personal touch.

Remember, as the best man, your outfit should complement the groom's without matching exactly. It's a good idea to coordinate with the groom and other groomsmen when choosing your suit and its details.

Dressing for the time of day

The best man's attire should complement the groom's without matching exactly and without overwhelming the groom's. The best man's outfit should be a younger sibling of the groom's and should also match the groomsmen's suits, albeit with differing details.

The time of day plays a significant role in determining the best man's attire. Afternoon weddings are usually casual or semi-formal, allowing for more flexibility in outfit choices. For a casual afternoon affair, a smart-casual look with a sports coat or blazer paired with dress pants or chinos is appropriate. If the dress code is semi-formal, a suit without a tie or a dress shirt with dress pants is a safe choice. Lighter colours and breathable fabrics are recommended for afternoon events, creating a relaxed yet polished look.

Evening weddings, especially those held after 6 pm, call for a more formal outfit. A classic suit in dark colours like navy, charcoal, or black is ideal. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt, a tie, and dress shoes for a polished and sophisticated look. Consider adding a pocket square or cufflinks for a touch of elegance.

If the wedding is held during the daytime, it is best to avoid wearing a tuxedo, as the black fabric will absorb the sun's heat and become uncomfortable. A lighter-coloured suit is a more suitable option for daytime weddings.

For a morning wedding, a cocktail-type vibe called "champagne breakfast" is often appropriate.

Dressing for the wedding theme

When it comes to the best man's attire, it's important to strike a balance between looking smart and not overshadowing the groom. The best man's outfit should complement the groom's, with subtle differences that set him apart from the rest of the groomsmen. Here are some tips for dressing as the best man according to the wedding theme:

Traditional/Formal Wedding:

For a traditional or formal wedding, the best man should opt for a dark-coloured suit, such as charcoal, navy, grey, or midnight blue. A 3-piece suit is a great choice, and the fabric should be heavy, such as 100% wool or a blend of wool and silk. A white shirt is a must, and for the tie, go for plain colours in silk. If the wedding is black-tie, a tuxedo is required, and it should be black no matter the season.

Religious Wedding:

For a religious wedding, the best man's attire should be formal, traditional, and polished. There is less room for creativity here, and it is important to follow the general style and formality of the wedding.

Civil Wedding:

The dress code for a civil wedding can vary depending on the couple's preferences. Some may consider it as formal as a religious wedding, while others may prefer a quick and informal ceremony. Assess the general mood of the event and choose your outfit accordingly.

Semi-Formal/Cocktail Wedding:

For a semi-formal or cocktail wedding, the best man can opt for suit separates or a blazer and trousers. A navy blazer is a popular choice, and it can be paired with chinos or dress pants. A necktie is recommended, and it can be loosened during the reception. Accessories such as a tie bar, pocket square, or lapel pin can add a touch of sophistication.

Casual Wedding:

For a casual wedding, the best man can opt for a smart-casual blazer and trousers or a suit in a lighter colour. Chinos are a great choice, and a crisp shirt with personality is a must. A necktie can be worn but can be removed later in the evening. Smart shoes and a matching belt are essential, and accessories can be added to showcase your style.

Beach Wedding:

For a beach wedding, light fabrics and relaxed styles are key. Linen or cotton suits in soft colours like beige or light blue are perfect for staying cool. A sharp shirt and chinos or dressy shorts can also work, paired with sandals or loafers.

Garden Wedding:

Garden weddings call for easy-breezy looks that blend with the natural setting. Light, airy fabrics and soft colours like pastels are ideal. A floral tie or pocket square can add a charming touch. Comfortable shoes that can handle a stroll through the flowers are a must.

Vintage Wedding:

For a vintage-themed wedding, tailored suits with retro details are a great choice. Rich, deep colours like burgundy or navy are perfect, and bold patterns or accessories like suspenders or a fedora can be added. Just remember to keep the comfort level modern.

Festive/Themed Wedding:

For a festive or themed wedding, it's essential to embrace the theme while maintaining an appropriate level of formality. Bold colours, playful touches, and fun patterns can be incorporated. It's important to feel comfortable and confident, so choose an outfit that strikes a balance between the theme and your personal style.

Accessories

• Shoes: Opt for comfortable shoes as you will be on your feet for most of the day. Black matte calfskin laced shoes are a classic choice.
• Socks: Feel free to be creative with your socks and choose different shades and patterns such as stripes, diamonds, or squares. You can even go for bold colours like burgundy or red.
• Cufflinks: Cufflinks can instantly elevate your look and add a touch of class. Choose designs that reflect your personality, whether understated or bold.
• Tie bars: Tie bars not only keep your tie in place but also add a stylish element to your outfit. They are versatile and can work for both formal and semi-formal weddings.
• Wristwatch: A stylish wristwatch is a sophisticated accessory that will complement your attire without trying too hard. Choose one that suits your taste and complements your outfit.
• Pocket squares: Pocket squares are a fun way to add a pop of colour or pattern to your suit jacket. Experiment with different folds and styles to find what works best.
• Neckties and bowties: Whether you prefer neckties or bowties, choose soft fabrics and playful patterns that reflect your personal style. For a relaxed vibe, go for a soft fabric and a playful pattern.
• Belt: A belt can be a subtle yet stylish accessory. Opt for a belt that matches your shoes to create a cohesive look.
• Suspenders: Suspenders can be a functional and fashionable alternative to a belt. They add a touch of uniqueness to your outfit.
• Lapel pin: A lapel pin can be a subtle yet elegant accessory, especially if you choose a simple design.
• Boutonnière: A small flower or floral detail can add a touch of charm to your outfit. However, boutonnières are typically reserved for the groom and his attendants.

Remember, the key to choosing accessories is to express your personal style while staying true to the dress code and theme of the wedding.

Frequently asked questions