The Perfect Wedding Suit: Fabric, Fit, And Style

Planning a wedding can be a stressful time, and choosing what to wear is one of the most important decisions for the groom. While it's tempting to go for something trendy, it's best to opt for timeless elegance. The safest bet is a classic two-piece suit in navy or grey, but there are many factors to consider, such as the season, venue, and time of day. For example, a beach wedding calls for lightweight, breathable fabrics, while an evening wedding may require a more formal look. Ultimately, the goal is to look your best and complement the bride's outfit, not compete with it.

Suit Colour

When it comes to choosing a wedding suit, there are several factors to consider, including the season, time, and place of the ceremony, as well as the level of formality. While the suit colour ultimately depends on your personal preference, here are some guidelines to help you choose the right shade for your special day:

Season and Venue

The time of year and location of your wedding will play a significant role in determining the colour of your suit. For autumn and winter weddings, darker colours like navy, charcoal grey, and midnight blue are popular choices. These shades complement the autumn colour palette and provide a sophisticated look. If you're getting married during the warmer months, consider opting for lighter colours like light grey, beige, or light blue, especially if you're having a beach or outdoor wedding. These colours will help you stay cool and comfortable while still looking sharp.

Formality

The formality of your wedding will also influence your suit colour choice. For a formal wedding, dark colours like navy, charcoal grey, and black are traditional options. These colours convey elegance and sophistication. On the other hand, if you're having a more casual or rustic wedding, you can explore lighter shades or even bolder colours like burgundy or olive green. Just remember to avoid black, as it is typically associated with funerals and may not be suitable for the joyous occasion.

Complementing the Bride

Another important consideration when choosing your suit colour is ensuring that you complement the bride's outfit. Traditionally, the groom should avoid wearing white, as it is the bride's colour. Opt for a coloured suit that will create a beautiful contrast with the bride's white dress. You can also coordinate with the wedding colour palette, but be careful not to match it exactly. A well-chosen suit colour will enhance the overall aesthetic of the wedding party and create visually appealing photos.

Reusing the Suit

If you plan to reuse your wedding suit for other formal events or office meetings, consider choosing a colour that is versatile and appropriate for various occasions. Midnight blue or charcoal grey are excellent options as they are suitable for interviews, cocktails, business meetings, and other formal events. These colours offer a perfect balance between formality and versatility, ensuring that your suit gets plenty of wear even after the wedding.

Personal Preference

Lastly, don't forget that it's your special day, and you should feel confident and comfortable in your choice of suit. If you have a particular colour in mind that holds a special meaning for you, don't be afraid to go for it. Whether it's a bold shade or a subtle hue, make sure it reflects your personality and style. It's your wedding, and you deserve to look and feel your best.

Suit Fabric

The fabric of a wedding suit is an important consideration, as it will determine the overall look and feel of the outfit. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the fabric for a wedding suit:

Season and Venue

The fabric chosen should be appropriate for the season and venue of the wedding. For autumn and winter weddings, heavier materials such as 100% wool, wool-silk blends, or wool mohair blends are recommended. These fabrics will provide warmth and a sense of elegance. For summer weddings, lightweight and breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, or wool and silk blends are ideal. These fabrics will help the groom stay cool and comfortable while still looking formal.

Colour

The colour of the fabric should complement the groom's complexion and the overall wedding colour scheme. Traditional colours for wedding suits include shades of blue, such as midnight blue, cobalt blue, or solid blue, which offer a charming and formal impression. Charcoal grey is another elegant option, while light grey can be a good choice for a casual destination wedding. Black suits, while formal, may be too stark and are not typically worn to weddings in most countries.

Type of Suit

The type of suit, whether it is a two-piece or three-piece, will also influence the fabric choice. For a three-piece suit, a waistcoat in a contrasting colour is a classic choice. The fabric for the waistcoat can be tone-on-tone with the suit or a complementary colour like ivory or cream. For a two-piece suit, a simple solid-coloured suit in charcoal grey or dark navy is timeless and versatile. Lighter colours like khaki and light grey can also work, especially during the summer months or in exotic locations.

Durability and Reusability

It is important to consider the durability and reusability of the wedding suit fabric. A well-made suit in a classic style and colour can be worn for other formal events or office meetings. Choosing a high-quality fabric, such as 100% wool, will ensure the suit can be worn again and will stand the test of time.

In conclusion, when selecting the fabric for a wedding suit, it is essential to take into account the season, venue, colour palette, and type of suit desired. By choosing a fabric that is both stylish and functional, the groom can feel confident and comfortable on their special day.

Suit Style

The style of your wedding suit will depend on a few factors, such as the season, time, and place of the ceremony, as well as your personal taste. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right style for your big day:

• Fabric and Colour: For autumn and winter weddings, opt for heavy materials like 100% wool, wool-silk, or wool mohair blends. Dark colours such as blue, dark blue, midnight blue, and charcoal grey are popular choices for these seasons. For spring and summer weddings, go for lighter fabrics like wool and silk blends or cotton and linen blends. Colours like blue, grey, off-white, light grey, beige, or light blue are perfect for warmer weather.
• Three-Piece Suit: A three-piece suit is a classic and traditional choice for grooms. It offers versatility in terms of colours and fabrics and is suitable for most wedding types and seasons. A waistcoat in a contrasting colour is a great way to add a touch of elegance.
• Single-Breasted vs Double-Breasted: A single-breasted suit is understated, simple, and dignified. It is a safe choice for grooms who want to keep things classic. On the other hand, a double-breasted suit adds weight and formality to the outfit but is less comfortable for prolonged wear.
• Lapels: Peak lapels are considered more formal and are perfect for weddings in formal environments. Notch lapels are more casual and can be chosen if you want to experiment with your look, but it is advisable to run it by your bride-to-be first.
• Pockets: Jetted pockets are recommended for formal wedding suits, while flap pockets are more suitable for informal suits.
• Trousers: The length of the trousers should sit perfectly at the ankle and be slightly longer than usual. Cuffs are considered too informal for wedding suits. Well-fitted trousers without belt loops are more formal, and pleated trousers may seem informal.
• Venue and Time: The time and place of the wedding will also dictate the style of your suit. For exotic or beach weddings, lightweight and breathable fabrics are key. City weddings call for a more formal and traditional look. Country-themed weddings allow for more flexibility in colours, and you may want to consider a slightly heavier fabric if the wedding is in the evening.

Shoes

Firstly, black shoes are the smartest and most formal option. If you're wearing a suit or a tuxedo, sleek polished Oxfords or plain lace-ups in black are a safe choice. They will pair well with any colour suit and are suitable for both daytime and evening weddings. If you're wearing a tuxedo, shiny patent shoes are also an option, although they are typically reserved for even more formal white-tie events.

If you're wearing a navy blue suit, medium-to-dark brown shoes are a good choice. Chocolate brown shoes can complement a dark suit nicely, while lighter shades may be less formal. For a beach wedding, lightweight and breathable fabrics are key. Linen blend shoes with cotton or wool and silk blends can be a good option to stay comfortable while maintaining a formal look.

The type of shoe you choose is also important. Oxford or Derby shoes are classic and elegant choices. If you're wearing a double-breasted jacket, make sure to pair it with a necktie and a formal dress shirt. An open collar is not an option with this type of jacket. For a more relaxed look, bluchers can be worn with a lighter-coloured suit or a suit without a tie.

Lastly, don't forget to polish your shoes until they shine. This will ensure you look your best on your wedding day and in the photos that will last a lifetime.

Accessories

Shoes

Black leather lace-up shoes are the classic choice for formal weddings, especially if your suit is dark-coloured (except for midnight blue). For a navy blue suit, medium-to-dark brown shoes are a good option. If you want to break the traditional rules, you can go for other colours like burgundy or deep green. Oxford or Derby styles are recommended, and don't forget to give your shoes a good polish!

Pocket Square and Boutonnière

For a truly elegant look, consider wearing both a pocket square and a boutonnière. The pocket square adds a pop of colour to your suit and should be chosen according to the wedding's style and your personal preference. A crisp white pocket square in cotton or silk is ideal for a black-tie wedding, while a linen pocket square suits a beach wedding. The boutonnière is also an essential part of the groom's traditional attire and should complement the type of wedding you're having.

Tie

A seven-fold silk tie is always a classy choice for the groom. Blue, cream, and ivory are excellent colour options. If you want to add a touch of luxury, go for a seven-fold tie, which is a work of art in itself. If you're wearing a tuxedo, a black bow tie is the way to go.

Cufflinks

Cufflinks are a must-have accessory for your wedding suit, especially if your shirt has French cuffs. Go for decorative cufflinks in gold or silver that complement your suit and add a touch of elegance to your overall look.

Suspenders or Cummerbund

If you're wearing a vest, suspenders are the best option to hold up your trousers. On the other hand, if you choose to wear a cummerbund, ensure your trousers are made-to-measure and well-fitted, as they should be worn without a belt.

Frequently asked questions