The Best Man: Matching The Groom's Style And Panache

There are many ways to dress a groom and their best man, and it is ultimately up to the couple to decide what they want. Traditionally, the groom and best man wear matching suits, with the groom wearing something slightly different to stand out. This could be a different coloured waistcoat, cravat, or jacket. Alternatively, the groom could wear a different style of jacket, such as a double-breasted jacket if the best man is wearing a single-breasted jacket, or a different coloured suit altogether. It is also possible to have the groom and best man wear completely different suits, with only small details such as waistcoats or cravats matching. Ultimately, the decision on how to dress the groom and best man is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong way to do it.

The groom can wear a different colour suit or jacket

There are many ways to differentiate the groom's outfit from that of the best man and groomsmen. One way to do this is by having the groom wear a different colour suit or jacket. This can be a subtle difference, such as a different shade of the same colour, or a more obvious contrast, such as the groom wearing a white jacket while the groomsmen wear black. For example, for a morning wedding, the groom could wear charcoal grey while the groomsmen wear pale grey. Alternatively, for an evening wedding, the groomsmen could wear black dinner jackets while the groom wears white.

The key is to make a subtle change so that the groom stands out, but the overall look remains coordinated. It is also important to note that there is no right or wrong way to dress the wedding party, and ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and comfort.

• The groom could wear a different style of jacket, such as a double-breasted jacket if the groomsmen are wearing single-breasted jackets, or a jacket with satin lapels if the groomsmen have plain lapels.
• The groom could wear a different waistcoat or cravat/tie, either in a different colour or with a unique pattern.
• The groom could have a more ornate or colourful boutonniere, perhaps even a mini version of the bride's bouquet.

The best man can wear the same pattern as the groom but in a different colour

There are many ways to style the groom and best man, and it is ultimately up to the couple getting married to decide what they would like. Traditionally, the groom and best man wear matching suits, but the groom can also wear something different to stand out.

One way to differentiate the best man from the groom while still keeping their outfits coordinated is to have them wear the same pattern but in different colours. For example, the best man could wear the same waistcoat and cravat as the groom, but in a different colour. This way, the best man will stand out from the other groomsmen and be recognised for his important role, while still looking like part of the wedding party.

Another option is to have the best man wear a different style of jacket to the groom. For instance, if the groomsmen are wearing single-breasted jackets, the groom could wear a double-breasted jacket. Alternatively, if the groomsmen are wearing three-button styles, the groom could wear a single-button jacket. This creates a subtle distinction between the groom and the best man while maintaining a cohesive look.

Additionally, the groom can choose to wear a different colour suit or jacket from the groomsmen to create a total contrast and make it obvious who the star of the show is. For instance, for a backyard wedding, the groomsmen could wear khaki suits, while the groom stands out in white.

Ultimately, the decision on how to style the groom and best man is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. The key is to choose an option that feels comfortable and doesn't complicate the overall look.

The groom can wear a different tie

While traditionally the groom and best man wear matching outfits, the groom can choose to wear a different tie to stand out. This is a simple and subtle way to differentiate the groom from the groomsmen, without making any major changes to the overall look.

If the groomsmen are wearing solid colour ties, the groom could opt for a patterned variation in the same colour family. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing navy neckties, the groom could choose a navy tie with white pindots. Alternatively, the groom could wear a floral tie that incorporates the colour of the bridesmaid dresses, groomsmen ties, and the bride's gown.

The groom could also choose a bigger tie, or one in a different colour, to set himself apart from the groomsmen. For instance, if the groomsmen are wearing ties in shades of purple, the groom could select a tie in a brighter or darker shade of purple.

Another option is for the groom to wear a cravat or bow tie, while the groomsmen wear long ties. This option can add a unique touch to the groom's outfit, but it may look a little untidy, so it is important to consider the overall style and formality of the wedding.

In addition to the colour and style of the tie, the fabric and pattern can also be used to create a distinctive look for the groom. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing silk ties, the groom could choose a textured fabric like tweed or corduroy for his tie.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to match or differentiate the groom's tie comes down to personal preference and the desired level of formality for the wedding.

The groom can wear a different waistcoat

The groom can certainly wear a different waistcoat to stand out from the best man and the rest of the groomsmen. This is a great way to differentiate the groom's outfit and make him the centre of attention (alongside the bride, of course!).

One way to achieve this is by opting for a contrast waistcoat. The groom can experiment with patterns and colours to create a dynamic look. For instance, the groom might wear a brightly coloured waistcoat, while the groomsmen wear plainer cummerbunds. Alternatively, the groom could wear an identical waistcoat to the groomsmen but in a different style, such as a double-breasted or contemporary horseshoe design.

Another option is for the groom and groomsmen to wear the same suit and neckwear, but with the groom in a white or ivory waistcoat, and the groomsmen in a colour that matches the bridesmaids' colour scheme. This is a subtle way to ensure the groom stands out, especially if the colour chosen for the groomsmen complements the bride's dress.

If you want to keep the look coordinated, you could have everyone in the same suit and waistcoat, but with the groom wearing a different coloured cravat or tie. For example, the groom might wear a fuchsia pink cravat, while the best man and groomsmen wear purple.

There are endless combinations to mix and match, but remember to limit the amendments to maintain a cohesive 'group look'.

The best man can wear a different boutonniere

Traditionally, the groom should wear the same outfit as his best man. However, it is becoming increasingly common for the best man's attire to be slightly different from the rest of the groomsmen. This can be achieved by wearing a different coloured suit or jacket, or by adjusting the jacket style.

One way to differentiate the best man from the groomsmen is by giving him a different boutonnière. A boutonnière is a single flower or cluster of small flowers, typically worn through a small buttonhole on the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket. Traditionally, the groom's boutonnière will be more elaborate than those of the groomsmen, often featuring a more intricate arrangement or larger flowers. The best man's boutonnière can also be slightly different from the other groomsmen to distinguish his honoured role.

When choosing a different boutonnière for the best man, consider the wedding's colour scheme and the specific attire of the groomsmen. The best man's boutonnière should follow the same colour scheme while adding a creative twist to showcase his personality and interests. For example, he could incorporate accessories like golf tees, guitar picks, or feathers.

Additionally, the type of flower chosen for the best man's boutonnière can make a statement. While popular choices include roses, carnations, and orchids, consider a flower that symbolises the occasion, such as dahlias, which represent lasting bonds and steadfast commitment.

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