Best Man's Guide To Choosing A Timeless Suit

Being the best man at a wedding is a big responsibility, and it's important to look the part. While the groom's suit is the most important, the best man's suit should also be comfortable and appropriate. The best man's suit should complement the groom's without overshadowing it. It's also important to consider the time of day, season, and type of wedding when choosing a suit. For example, if the wedding takes place before 6 pm, the best man will typically wear a tuxedo or morning dress. For afternoon and evening weddings, a three-piece suit in a dark shade of grey or blue is a good choice. Wool or a blend of wool and silk are recommended fabrics, as they are comfortable and sophisticated. In terms of colour, dark blue is a popular choice as it flatters any complexion and body type, and grants both formality and elegance. Ultimately, the best man should adapt his look to that of the groom and consider the specific circumstances of the wedding when choosing a suit.

Suit colour

When it comes to choosing the colour of your suit, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the occasion will play a big part in your decision. Formal events call for darker colours such as navy, charcoal or black, whereas casual events allow for lighter colours like beige or light grey.

If you're attending a wedding, it's important to coordinate with the groom and groomsmen. Colour-matched suits are a must, as are matching ties, pocket squares and flower buttonholes. A double-breasted suit in navy or charcoal grey is a versatile and safe choice for a best man, and can be paired with a single-breasted suit.

Your skin tone and hair colour will also influence the colour of your suit. Lighter skin tones pair well with darker suits, whereas those with darker skin tones can opt for lighter or more vibrant colours. If you have a darker complexion and dark hair, a black suit will be particularly flattering. Conversely, if you have light hair and a light complexion, a black suit may wash you out.

Finally, the time of year will also impact your choice of suit colour. Darker suits are preferred in winter and autumn, while spring and summer call for lighter, brighter colours.

Suit fabric

The fabric of a suit is one of the most important considerations when choosing what to wear as the best man. The material will dictate the suit's breathability, durability, formality, and overall comfort. Here is a guide to some of the most common suit fabrics to help you decide which one is best suited for the role of best man:

Wool

Wool is a popular choice for suits due to its durability, wrinkle resistance, water resistance, and breathability. It is an ideal fabric for keeping warm during colder seasons, and its high-quality nature means a wool suit can last for decades. Wool suits are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Cotton

Cotton suits are typically more suitable for warmer temperatures because of their lightweight and breathable properties. Cotton is durable and soft, but it is more prone to damage as it is made from organic material. Cotton suits tend to be more casual and are a good option if you are looking for something comfortable and low-maintenance.

Linen

Linen is a durable fabric with moisture-protective properties, making it a great choice for hot days. It is surprisingly durable, hypoallergenic, and wonderfully soft, providing both comfort and style. However, linen is prone to wrinkling, so it may not be the best option if you are looking for something crisp and formal.

Synthetic Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester are sometimes used for suits, offering moisture-wicking properties that keep you cool and comfortable. These suits are usually designed for travel and are wrinkle-resistant and functional. While they may not be as formal, they are a practical option for the best man who is always on the move.

When choosing the fabric for your suit, consider the climate, formality of the event, and your personal comfort. Wool and cotton are versatile options, while linen and synthetic fabrics have their unique advantages for specific situations.

Suit fit

When it comes to buying a suit for the best man, fit is paramount. A well-fitting suit will ensure the best man looks and feels his best on the big day. Here are some tips to achieve the perfect fit:

Know Your Body Type

Firstly, determine your body type. Are you slim, athletic, or muscular? This will help you choose the right fit. For instance, if you have a wiry frame, a slim-fit suit will drape elegantly over your body. If you are muscular, opt for an athletic fit that offers more room in the shoulders and thighs. A regular or classic fit is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, versatile look, while a modern fit combines the comfort of a classic fit with the sleekness of a slim fit.

Single-Breasted or Double-Breasted

The number of buttons and the style of the jacket will influence the overall fit and formality of the suit. Single-breasted suits, with their single row of buttons, are the most common and casual option. They are perfect for creating a slimming effect, especially if you leave the last button unbuttoned. On the other hand, double-breasted suits with their two parallel rows of buttons are dressier and ideal for those wanting to highlight their shoulders and appear taller.

Lapel Style

The lapel is the fold of fabric on the front of the jacket. The three most common types are peak, notch, and shawl. Peak lapels are dramatic and V-shaped, perfect for those with rounded faces as they create a sharp, formal look. Notch lapels are milder and more versatile, suitable for any face shape and occasion. Lastly, shawl lapels are rounded and reserved for formal wear, often seen on tuxedos.

Vent Style

The vent is the slit at the back of the jacket and can be single, double, or non-existent. A single vent, also known as a centre vent, is the most comfortable option as it allows for more movement. A double vent, on the other hand, is more sophisticated and slimming. A ventless suit is sleek and outlines your figure, but it is less comfortable for sitting or moving.

Jacket Buttons

The number of buttons on the jacket can affect the formality and fit of the suit. A one-button jacket is modern and casual, ideal for smaller men as it exposes more of the shirt and tie. A two-button jacket is the most common and versatile option, flattering for most body types. A three-button jacket is the most formal option for a single-breasted suit, with shorter lapels and a shallower V-cut, perfect for taller or athletic individuals.

Trouser Style

The style of the trousers can also impact the overall fit and look of the suit. Flat-front trousers offer a modern, streamlined appearance, while pleated trousers add a touch of tradition. Cuffed hems add weight to the trouser and affect the drape and formality.

Customisation

For the best fit, consider custom or made-to-measure suits. Brands like Indochino offer custom options at affordable prices, allowing you to mix and match suit jacket and pant preferences. Alternatively, opt for off-the-rack suits but ensure you have them tailored for a perfect fit.

In conclusion, achieving the perfect suit fit for the best man involves considering body type, button style, lapel design, vents, and trouser style. Customisation and tailoring are key to ensuring the suit fits like a glove.

Suit type

When it comes to suit types, there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and suitability for different occasions. Here are some of the most common suit types and their key features:

Single-Breasted Suits

The single-breasted suit is a classic and one of the most worn types of suits. It features a single row of buttons, usually one or up to three buttons. The golden rule for this suit is to always leave the last button unbuttoned if the blazer has more than one. The fewer buttons the jacket has, the more casual the suit is. Single-breasted suits are ideal for those who want to appear slimmer, as they draw attention away from the stomach and slim down the waist.

Double-Breasted Suits

The double-breasted suit is a dressier option compared to the single-breasted suit and is perfect for formal occasions. It features two parallel vertical rows of buttons, typically with six buttons but can also be found with four or eight. Similar to single-breasted suits, the last button should always be left unbuttoned. This suit type accentuates the shoulders and creates a slimming effect, making the wearer appear leaner and taller.

Slim-Fit Suits

Slim-fit suits are close-fitting and hug the body, providing a sleek and modern look. They are narrower around the chest, shoulders, and waist, ending with narrow-fitted legs. This suit style is ideal for men with thinner or more athletic builds, offering a comfortable fit while accentuating the natural body shape.

Regular Fit Suits

The regular fit suit, also known as the classic fit, strikes a balance between comfort and style. It provides a relaxed fit, with a mid-length jacket and bootcut pants. This versatile suit type is suitable for any body type and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Modern Fitted Suits

The modern fitted suit is a hybrid of the slim fit and regular fit, offering a close fit with slightly more room. It combines the versatility of the regular fit with the sleekness of the slim fit, accommodating a wider range of body types.

When choosing a suit as the best man, it's important to consider the wedding's theme, colour scheme, and the groom's suit style. Colour-matched suits are a must for the best man and groomsmen, along with coordinated ties, pocket squares, and flower buttonholes. Additionally, the suit should be appropriate for the formality of the event and the season. For example, a lightweight suit in a light colour like beige or light grey is ideal for spring or summer weddings, while a classic black suit is more suitable for formal evening affairs.

Suit accessories

When it comes to accessorising your suit, the options are endless. From the flamboyant to the traditional, there are many ways to personalise your look. Here are some ideas for suit accessories for a best man:

Tie bar

A simple clip-on accessory that fixes your tie to your dress shirt. It can be purely functional or a decorative piece.

Cufflinks

Cufflinks are a must-have accessory if you're wearing French cuff dress shirts or a tuxedo shirt. They are a great way to add a touch of personality to your outfit.

Tie pin

For a more formal look, a tie pin is used to fix your shirt collars to your tie.

Pocket square

A pocket square is a decorative piece of fabric that goes into your jacket's chest pocket, adding a pop of colour or pattern to your suit.

Watch

A watch is a great accessory to tie your wedding day look together. It can be your everyday piece or a special one chosen for the occasion.

Jewellery

From signet rings to engraved bracelets, jewellery is becoming an increasingly popular accessory for grooms.

Bolo ties

Bolo ties are a unique accessory, perfect for outdoor weddings. They add a touch of flair to your suit while maintaining a formal look.

Patterned pocket squares

Pocket squares with bold patterns or quirky designs can add character to your suit.

Suspenders

Suspenders can be a stylish and functional accessory, especially if they complement the colour of your shoes.

Flask

A flask filled with your favourite spirit can be a fun and welcome accessory on your wedding day.

Colourful socks

Socks are a great way to add a subtle touch of colour and personality to your outfit. You can even match them to the wedding theme or colours.

Boutonnière

A boutonnière is a small flower or floral arrangement worn on the lapel of your jacket. It can be fresh or fabric and is a thoughtful accessory.

Frequently asked questions