The Best Man's Rehearsal Dinner Attire: What To Wear?

The best man is likely to be busy in the days leading up to the wedding, so it's understandable that he might be unsure about what to wear to the rehearsal dinner. While the wedding itself is a more straightforward event in terms of attire, the rehearsal dinner is a little more nuanced. The best man should consider the venue, the time of day, and the level of formality of the event.

If the rehearsal dinner is at a high-end restaurant, country club, or hotel, a suit is a good option. A simple dress shirt and dress pants or chinos are a safe bet for any venue, and can be dressed up with a jacket, tie, and accessories. If the dinner is at a more casual venue, such as a backyard barbecue or a pub, a collared shirt and slacks are probably appropriate, but jeans are generally best avoided unless specified by the couple.

The best man should also consider the bride's outfit. If she is wearing a cocktail dress, a suit is a good choice. If she is wearing a day dress, slacks, a collared shirt, and a tie are probably sufficient.

What to wear to a rehearsal dinner at a casual venue

If you're the best man at an upcoming wedding, you might be wondering what to wear to the rehearsal dinner, especially if it's at a casual venue. Here are some tips to help you decide on an appropriate and stylish outfit:

Dress Code Considerations:

Firstly, it's important to note that the dress code for the rehearsal dinner is likely to be more relaxed than the wedding itself. However, it's still a special occasion, and you'll want to look your best. As a general rule, avoid jeans, t-shirts, and athletic wear. Chinos or slacks with a collared shirt are a safe choice for a casual rehearsal dinner.

Venue and Weather:

The venue and weather will play a significant role in determining your outfit. If the rehearsal dinner is taking place outdoors, consider the temperature and conditions. For warmer weather, a knit polo or camp-collar shirt with chinos or trousers can be a comfortable and stylish option. For cooler evenings, layer with a sweater or cardigan. If the venue is a casual restaurant or pub, a collared shirt with trousers and loafers could be a good choice.

Wedding Theme and Colours:

If the wedding has a theme or specific colours, you can incorporate them into your rehearsal dinner outfit. This could be as simple as adding a pocket square or a pair of colourful socks that match the wedding colours. However, it's important not to wear the exact wedding colours, as those are usually reserved for the wedding party on the big day.

Accessories:

Accessories can elevate your look and make it more festive. Consider adding a trendy tie, a pocket square, or custom cufflinks. If you want to be prepared for any last-minute changes, bring a necktie and a sport coat with you. That way, you can easily adjust your outfit if the venue calls for a more formal look.

Footwear:

When it comes to footwear, loafers are a safe choice for a casual rehearsal dinner. Sneakers can also work, but opt for a more subdued pair rather than something too flashy.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between looking sharp and feeling comfortable. You want to set the tone as the best man, but you also want to be able to relax and enjoy the evening.

What to wear to a rehearsal dinner at a formal venue

If you're the best man at an upcoming wedding, you might be wondering what to wear to the rehearsal dinner, especially if it's at a formal venue. Here are some tips to help you decide on an appropriate and stylish outfit for the occasion.

First and foremost, it's important to remember that the event isn't about you; it's about the couple. Therefore, your choice of attire should not upstage the bride and groom. That being said, it's generally better to be overdressed than underdressed. A formal venue calls for a more elegant and sophisticated look.

When selecting your outfit, consider the venue and the level of formality. If the rehearsal dinner is being held at an upscale restaurant, hotel, or country club, a suit is a safe choice. A simple, well-fitted suit in a dark colour like navy or charcoal grey is always a good option. You can pair it with a dress shirt, preferably in a colour that complements the bride's outfit, and leather dress shoes. A tie is optional but can add a nice touch. Cufflinks, a pocket square, or other accessories can also elevate your look.

If the dinner is at a cocktail bar, winery, or tasting room, you can be a bit more relaxed while still maintaining a level of sophistication. A sport coat or blazer over a sweater or button-down shirt and trousers is a good choice. Again, a tie is not necessary but can be a nice addition. For shoes, loafers or dress shoes are appropriate.

For a truly formal event, such as a black-tie affair, you might consider a tuxedo. This could include a tuxedo jacket and pants in black or midnight blue, a wingtip collared white dress shirt, and formal shoes. Accessories like a pocket square, cufflinks, and a bow tie can complete the look.

Remember to consider the weather and the theme or colour scheme of the wedding when choosing your outfit. For outdoor venues, you may need to dress in layers or opt for thicker fabrics for colder temperatures. Incorporating the wedding colours or theme into your outfit is a nice way to show your support for the couple.

Lastly, don't be afraid to ask the bride or groom for their input. They may have specific ideas or requests for your attire, and it's always better to clarify than to assume.

What to wear to a rehearsal dinner as the groom

The best man at a wedding has an important role, and that includes looking the part. So, what should you wear to the rehearsal dinner as the groom's right-hand man? Well, it depends on a few factors.

First, consider the venue. If it's an upscale restaurant, hotel, or country club, a suit is a safe bet. A simple navy suit in a classic cut is always a good choice and can be paired with a dress shirt and a snazzy tie. If the venue is more informal, like a cocktail bar, winery, or tasting room, you can go for a more relaxed look, such as a suit with an unstructured cut, paired with a turtleneck and loafers.

For a brewery, tavern, or pub, a smart-casual ensemble is appropriate. Chinos or trousers with a sweater or collared shirt will do the trick. If the rehearsal dinner is outdoors, consider the weather. For warmer months, opt for knit polos or linen trousers, while for cooler evenings, layer up with sweaters or thicker suiting fabrics.

Remember, as the groom's partner-in-crime, you should aim to set the tone. Avoid jeans and t-shirts unless specifically stated, as this is a special occasion. It's also a good idea to avoid wearing the wedding colours, especially if you're part of the wedding party.

Most importantly, don't be afraid to have some fun with your outfit! If the wedding has a theme or colour scheme, feel free to incorporate it into your rehearsal dinner attire. After all, it's a celebration, and you want to look sharp in those photos!

What accessories to wear to a rehearsal dinner

Accessories are an important part of your outfit for a rehearsal dinner. They can help you look put together and stylish. Here are some tips on what accessories to wear to a rehearsal dinner as the best man:

• The location and formality of the event should guide your choice of accessories. For a more formal location like a country club or upscale restaurant, opt for more elegant accessories like a pocket square, cufflinks, or a tie. If the event is more casual, you can be more relaxed with your accessory choices.
• Consider the season and colours of the venue when choosing accessories. Lighter and brighter colours are ideal for summer months, while jewel tones and darker colours are perfect for fall and winter.
• If you're wearing a suit, you can accessorise with a trendy tie, pocket square, or patterned socks. A nice watch or a pair of cufflinks can also add a touch of elegance.
• If you're wearing a collared shirt, a necktie or bow tie can be a great accessory. Choose a classic dark colour like navy, burgundy, or grey for a sophisticated look.
• Shoes are an important accessory. Loafers or dress shoes are ideal for a more formal event, while a nice pair of sneakers or boots can work for a casual rehearsal dinner.
• If you're wearing a jacket, consider adding a buttoned-up pocket square that complements your outfit's colour scheme.
• Avoid wearing any accessories that may be considered too bold or attention-seeking. The goal is to look stylish and elegant without overshadowing the wedding day looks.
• If in doubt, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. A well-chosen accessory can elevate your outfit and make you feel confident.

What colours to wear to a rehearsal dinner

When deciding what colours to wear to a rehearsal dinner as the best man, it's important to consider the venue, the season, and the level of formality.

If the rehearsal dinner is taking place in a high-end restaurant, country club, or another formal setting, it's best to opt for more neutral colours such as black, grey, navy, or other dark colours. These colours can be paired with a white dress shirt and dark-coloured accessories like a tie, pocket square, or patterned socks.

On the other hand, if the rehearsal dinner is more casual and takes place outdoors, in a brewery, or at a cafe, you can incorporate lighter and brighter colours into your outfit. Colours like tan, beige, or light blue can be paired with a white or light-coloured shirt and loafers or dress shoes.

It's also important to consider the wedding theme and colour scheme. If the wedding has a specific theme or colour palette, you can incorporate those colours into your rehearsal dinner outfit, especially if the wedding is more casual or has a unique theme.

Additionally, the season can play a role in your colour choice. For spring and summer rehearsal dinners, light and breathable colours are ideal, while fall and winter call for richer and darker hues.

Remember, the key is to dress appropriately for the occasion while also showcasing your personal style. You want to look your best and feel comfortable and confident.

Frequently asked questions