Black-Tie Weddings: A Guide To Full Formal Attire For Grooms And Guests

Formal attire for men at a wedding is a step down from black-tie, meaning a tuxedo is not required. However, a dark suit, white shirt, and conservative tie are appropriate. The suit should be well-tailored, and in shades of midnight blue, black, charcoal, or a rich worsted wool. Double-breasted waistcoats, deep greys, burgundy, and navy are also excellent options. The outfit should be paired with dress shoes, such as black oxfords or brown derbies. Cufflinks, pocket squares, and colourful socks can be added for a touch of personality.

Tuxedos vs suits

When it comes to formalwear, tuxedos and suits are two of the most well-known options. While they share similarities, there are several differences to consider when deciding between the two for a wedding.

Similarities

At their core, tuxedos and suits are very similar. Both consist of trousers, a jacket, and are usually paired with a dress shirt and a tie.

Differences

Tuxedos are distinguished by their satin detailing, which can be found in the lapels, buttons, pocket trim, and as a stripe down the leg of the trousers. They are also often accented with accessories like cummerbunds and are worn with a particular kind of dress shirt and shoe (usually patent leather). Tuxedos are typically made with a black base fabric and are more formal than suits.

On the other hand, suits offer more variety in terms of colours, materials, and patterns. They are made from a range of fabrics, from linen to flannel, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Suits are also generally more affordable than tuxedos.

When to Wear a Tuxedo vs a Suit

The level of formality of the event is an important factor to consider when choosing between a tuxedo and a suit. Tuxedos are typically reserved for more formal events, such as white tie, black tie, and formal occasions. Suits, on the other hand, have a wider range of appropriateness and can be dressed up or down depending on the dress code. For example, a suit can be appropriate for a semi-formal or dressy casual wedding, while a tuxedo would be too formal.

The time of day is also a factor to consider. Tuxedos are typically worn in the evening, while suits can be worn at any time of day.

For grooms trying to decide between a tuxedo and a suit for their wedding, it's important to consider the dress code, venue, time of day, and how you want your guests to dress. If you're having a casual or semi-formal wedding during the day, a suit might be a better option. If you're having a formal evening wedding, a tuxedo would be more appropriate. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Dark colours

When it comes to dark colours, a formal dress code for men is not the same as a black-tie dress code. While black-tie requires a tuxedo, a formal dress code gives you more flexibility to showcase your personality.

For a dark-coloured formal wedding outfit, you can opt for a well-fitted, dark-coloured suit. Charcoal grey, navy blue, and black are all excellent choices. You can also experiment with accessories like tie bars and cufflinks. When it comes to shoes, dress shoes are a must, but you have more flexibility than with a black-tie dress code. You can choose laced oxfords, for example, rather than being restricted to patent leather.

If you want to add a subtle touch of colour to your dark outfit, consider a coloured pocket square or a colourful pair of socks. You could also try a coloured or patterned tie, or a statement piece of jewellery.

When choosing your outfit, it's important to consider the season and the venue. For a winter wedding, opt for darker shades and thicker fabrics. For a summer wedding, choose lighter fabrics and brighter colours. If the wedding is at the beach, you might want to opt for lightweight fabrics and relaxed vibes. For a city wedding, a sleek and stylish ensemble will fit the bill.

Collared shirts

When selecting a collared shirt for a formal wedding, it's important to choose a dress shirt rather than a casual shirt. T-shirts, polo shirts, and banded collar shirts are not suitable for this occasion. Opt for a well-fitted, crisp, and classic collared dress shirt in a solid colour, such as white or light blue. If the wedding venue and theme allow for it, you can also experiment with different colours, textures, or patterns, such as pastel, denim, or pinstripe.

For a more formal look, pair your collared shirt with a tie. A silk tie is always a good choice, especially when paired with a tailored suit. During the winter, wool flannel ties can add texture and depth to your ensemble, while a cotton or linen blend tie is ideal for summer. If you want to add a touch of personality to your outfit, consider swapping the traditional woven tie for a textured knitted option.

Remember to pay attention to the overall fit of your collared shirt. Ensure that the sleeves end at the tops of your wrists, revealing a bit of your dress shirt underneath. The back of the jacket should fall around the top of your seat, providing a clean and tailored look.

Additionally, consider the fabric of your collared shirt. Rich worsted wools, luxurious wool and cashmere blends, or structured cotton or linen blends can elevate your look. Avoid super casual fabrics, loud patterns, and over-textured finishes.

In summary, a collared dress shirt is a versatile and essential piece for men's formal wedding attire. With the right colour, fit, and fabric choices, you can create a sophisticated and stylish look that adheres to the formal dress code while allowing you to showcase your personal sense of style.

Ties

When it comes to ties, a silk tie is always a good choice. For winter weddings, wool flannel ties can add texture and depth, while cotton or linen blend ties are more suitable for summer. Bow ties are generally reserved for black-tie attire, but you can add a hint of relaxed sophistication by opting for a knitted tie instead of the traditional woven style.

If you want to experiment with accessories, consider adding a tie bar. They not only keep your tie in place but also add a stylish touch to your outfit. Choose a design that reflects your personality, be it understated or bold.

When attending a formal wedding, it's important to remember that the dress code is about looking refined while allowing for a subtle touch of personality. Therefore, it's best to avoid super casual fabrics, loud patterns, and over-textured finishes when selecting your tie.

Dress shoes

When it comes to formal wedding attire for men, shoes are an important component to consider. Here are some tips and guidelines for choosing the right dress shoes for a wedding:

• Match the dress code: The type of wedding and dress code will dictate the style of shoes you should wear. For black-tie events, black leather shoes are typically required, while formal weddings call for a conservative style like classic oxfords. Casual or semi-formal weddings offer more flexibility, allowing for lighter colours and patterns.
• Consider the outfit: If you're wearing a suit and tie, opt for classic dress shoes like cap-toe oxfords in black or dark brown. Chinos and a sports jacket call for a more casual style, such as a derby or semi-brogue oxford.
• Coordinate colours: A good rule of thumb is to choose shoes that are darker than your suit. Black suits pair well with black shoes, while grey suits can be paired with black or brown shoes. Blue suits go best with black or dark brown, and brown shoes are recommended for tan suits.
• Seasonal choices: Lighter-coloured shoes and suedes are ideal for warm-weather weddings, while darker shades of brown, black, or navy are perfect for winter. Loafers are a great option for spring and summer, and dress boots are suitable for colder months.
• Venue appropriateness: The wedding venue can also influence your shoe choice. For formal venues like churches, cap-toe oxfords in dark colours are a safe choice. Leather derbies or boots can be a stylish alternative for less formal settings.
• Role in the wedding: The groom should aim for classic and striking shoes that match the suit. Groomsmen should coordinate with the groom's style without standing out too much. Guests should adhere to the dress code and avoid upstaging the wedding party.
• Types of shoes: Oxfords are classic and versatile, suitable for the wedding party or guests in most cases. Derbies are more casual and versatile, a good option for guests but less common for the groom. Loafers offer a low-key alternative and are considered more formal than oxfords. Monk straps provide a contemporary and elegant option. Boots can also be dressed up for a wedding, especially in colder weather.
• Comfort and quality: It's important to choose comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on dancing. Break in your shoes before the wedding, and consider rubber soles for added comfort. Opt for high-quality leather shoes that will last and consider buying a pair you can wear on other occasions.

Frequently asked questions