Junior Rasmussen
Choosing what to wear to a wedding can be a tricky task, especially if you're part of the wedding party. The outfit you choose should match the formality of the event, the season, and the wedding's theme or colour scheme. If you're a wedding guest, you'll want to look smart without upstaging the wedding party. If you're part of the wedding party, you'll want to stand out while still complementing the couple getting married. Either way, you'll want to feel comfortable in what you're wearing.
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What You'll Learn
Dress code: casual, semi-formal, formal, or black-tie
Dress code: casual
Casual wedding attire typically indicates that the wedding will be held outdoors or on a beach, meaning the atmosphere and dress will be more relaxed. For women, this could mean a summer sundress or a floral-printed mini dress, paired with wedges or dressy sandals. Men should opt for dress pants or khakis, with a collared shirt and the option to add a tie or sports jacket. While jeans, shorts, tank tops, T-shirts, flip-flops, and sneakers are generally not appropriate, if the couple has specified that the wedding will be casual, these may be acceptable.
Dress code: semi-formal
Semi-formal wedding attire is dressier than casual but not as formal as a black-tie event. It usually requires some traditionally formal pieces but allows for flexibility in how they are worn. For women, this could mean a short, long, or tea-length dress, or a dressy jumpsuit or pantsuit, depending on the time of day and venue. For men, a patterned or textured suit with a bright tie or creative pocket square is appropriate. While jeans are generally not recommended, if the couple specifically requests that guests wear jeans, this is acceptable.
Dress code: formal
Formal attire is a common dress code for weddings. For women, a knee-length cocktail dress is usually appropriate, while men should wear a dark suit.
Dress code: black-tie
A black-tie wedding is a step above a formal wedding in terms of formality. For women, this means a full-length dress or a women's tuxedo, and for men, a tuxedo. Tuxedos can be in darker colours like navy or grey, or deeper jewel tones like emerald or burgundy.
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Tuxedo vs suit
When deciding between a tuxedo and a suit for a wedding, the most important factors to consider are the formality of the event, your personal style, and your budget.
Tuxedos are generally considered more formal than suits, so they are more suitable for black-tie events. Suits, on the other hand, can be dressed up or down and are more versatile in terms of style and colour. For example, you can wear a light blue or beige suit to a spring or summer wedding. If the wedding is in the evening, a tuxedo is ideal, whereas a daytime wedding may call for a regular suit.
The main difference between a tuxedo and a suit is that a tuxedo has satin detailing, such as a satin-faced lapel, satin buttons, or a satin 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 patent leather shoes. Suits, on the other hand, are made from a variety of fabrics, from linen to flannel, and can be worn with a tie or no neck decoration.
The cost of a tuxedo is typically higher than that of a suit. An entry-level suit will cost around $200, while a tuxedo will start at around $400. However, renting a tuxedo is always an option and is becoming increasingly popular.
Ultimately, the decision between a tuxedo and a suit for a wedding depends on the level of formality the couple wants to achieve. The groom's attire should also align with the wedding's theme and the groomsmen's outfits.
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Colour: black, blue, grey, green, or white
Black Suits
Black suits are a classic choice for any occasion and can make you look sharp and fancy. They are also slimming and can help disguise any extra weight. Black suits are suitable for formal weddings, especially if the dress code is black tie. If the wedding is less formal, you can opt for a tux instead. To avoid looking too bleak, add a light-coloured shirt, such as white or light blue, and a bright-coloured pocket square.
Blue Suits
Navy blue suits are a versatile wardrobe staple that works for weddings, work, or any special occasion. They can be romantic, neat, formal, or relaxed. Navy suits pair well with a crisp white shirt, light pastels, or rich earth tones. For a pop of colour, consider mustard or gold-coloured shirts, ties, or accessories. If you want a bolder look, opt for a royal blue suit.
Grey Suits
Grey suits are a popular choice for grooms and guests due to their timeless appeal and versatility. They can complement various colours and themes while offering different styling options. Grey suits can be dressed up with a white shirt and a bold tie for a formal affair or a patterned shirt and suspenders for a more casual celebration. Light grey suits tend to look better when structured and fitting snugly.
Green Suits
Green suits are a great choice for outdoor or rustic weddings due to their connection to nature. Lighter shades of green, such as olive or forest green, are perfect for summer weddings, while darker shades, like moss green, are ideal for winter weddings. For a rustic setting, consider a linen suit, which adds to the casual vibe. For a formal wedding, a dark green suit with a waistcoat can be a good option. Green can also be used for a dinner jacket, especially for autumn and winter events, where thicker fabrics like corduroy or velvet are preferred.
White Suits
White suits are generally not recommended for wedding guests as they can be considered too close to the colour traditionally worn by the bride. However, if the couple is open to it, a white linen suit can be a good option for a summer wedding.
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Lighter colours for outdoor weddings
When it comes to choosing a suit for an outdoor wedding, lighter colours can be an excellent choice, offering a stylish and comfortable option for the groom and groomsmen. Here are some things to consider when opting for a lighter-hued suit.
Fabric and Texture
For an outdoor wedding, it's essential to consider the fabric and texture of your suit. Lighter-weight fabrics such as linen, cotton, or lightweight wool are ideal as they breathe well and will keep you cool during the ceremony and celebrations. Linen, in particular, is a popular choice for outdoor weddings due to its breathability and natural wrinkled appearance, which adds a relaxed, effortless charm. Cotton suits are also a great option, as they are comfortable and can be dressed up or down, depending on the formality of the wedding. If you're looking for a more structured look, opt for a lightweight wool suit, which offers a sleek silhouette without the added weight.
Colour Options
There are a variety of light colours to choose from, allowing you to match the suit to the wedding's
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Lapel size and pocket squares
When it comes to lapel size, it's important to consider the overall look you want to achieve. A thin lapel can give a sleek and modern appearance, while a wider lapel can create a more classic or traditional look. The lapel size should also complement the proportions of your body and the suit's style.
As for pocket squares, they are a great way to add a subtle touch of personality and elegance to your wedding suit. When choosing a pocket square, consider the colour of your outfit, the formality of the occasion, and your personal style. You can opt for a conservative fold, like a flat fold, or go for a more flamboyant style, depending on your preference and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve.
The size of your pocket square is an important consideration. For silk pocket squares, opt for a size between 40cm and 45cm to avoid it slipping down into your pocket. Linen or wool squares are more structural, so a 33cm x 33cm square works well. If you're using a heavier fabric like tweed, keep the size around 30cm to prevent bulkiness when folded.
Additionally, the fabric of your pocket square can enhance your suit. A blend of wool and silk works well with all suit fabrics and is suitable for all seasons. Pure wool squares are ideal for winter and autumn, while a mix of wool and silk can be used year-round.
Remember, the key is to create a balanced and elegant look. If you have a thin lapel, consider the visual impact of adding a pocket square or a boutonniere, or both. While pocket squares are more versatile and can be used in various folds and colours, boutonnieres are considered more formal and are usually reserved for wear that is more formal than cocktail attire. Ultimately, the choice between a pocket square and a boutonniere, or both, depends on your personal preference and the overall style you wish to achieve.
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Frequently asked questions
The most important thing is to find out if there is a dress code. If the wedding is more formal, you may want to opt for a tuxedo, while a casual wedding will allow you to be more creative with colours and accessories. You should also consider the season and location of the wedding—darker suits are more common for winter weddings, while spring and summer weddings call for lighter colours.
A black tuxedo, a white shirt, and a black bow tie are usually expected for a black-tie wedding. For a dressed-up or traditional wedding, a black or navy suit is a safe choice.
For a casual or relaxed wedding, you can experiment with colours and styles. Lighter hues like tan and light blue are great for outdoor or barn weddings. You can also try a colourful or patterned jacket, like velvet or paisley.
Keep it simple but add some finishing touches to stand out. Make sure you feel comfortable in your suit, as you'll be wearing it for several hours. If you're renting a suit, make sure to order it with enough time to receive it and make any necessary alterations.
Ensure that your suit fits perfectly and matches the wedding aesthetic and the rest of the wedding party. Order your suit with plenty of time to try it on and make any necessary alterations.
