Groom And Best Man: Twinning Or Winning?

The groom's outfit is an important part of the wedding, and there are many ways to style it. While some grooms prefer to match their groomsmen, others prefer to stand out with a unique look. One way to ensure the groom stands out is to have them wear a tuxedo while the groomsmen wear suits. The groom can also choose a different colour or fabric to differentiate themselves, such as a forest green suit with grey ties for the groomsmen. Ultimately, the groom's outfit should complement the bride's dress and fit the wedding's theme and level of formality.

Tuxedos vs suits

When it comes to weddings, the groom's attire is just as important as the bride's. But with so many options available, how do you choose between a tuxedo and a suit? Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide.

Formality

A tuxedo is typically reserved for formal events and black-tie affairs. It is the epitome of sophistication and elegance, usually paired with a bow tie and polished black shoes. On the other hand, suits offer more versatility and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They are suitable for business meetings, professional events, and semi-formal events, as well as casual outings.

Fabric and Design

The primary difference between a tuxedo and a suit lies in their fabric and design. Tuxedos are traditionally made with satin details, including satin lapels, satin buttons, and a satin stripe along the trouser leg. Suits, on the other hand, lack these satin accents and are made from the same fabric throughout, giving them a more uniform and versatile look. Tuxedo trousers also differ from suit trousers, as they do not have belt loops and typically have a satin stripe running down the outer seam.

Accessories

When it comes to accessories, tuxedos are usually paired with a bow tie, cufflinks, and a cummerbund or waistcoat. Traditionally, tuxedos were only worn with bow ties and cummerbunds or waistcoats, but these days, the lines between tuxedo and suit accessories have blurred. Suits offer more flexibility, as they can be worn with either a bow tie or a necktie, depending on the level of formality required. For a more casual look, suits can be accessorised with a belt, whereas tuxedos typically do not have belt loops.

Colour and Customisation

Suits come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and fabrics, allowing for endless customisation options to fit any style and occasion. Tuxedos, however, are typically found in classic black or midnight blue, although modern adaptations in other colours like tan and slate blue are becoming increasingly popular.

Occasion

Both tuxedos and suits can be appropriate for weddings, but it's important to consider the formality of the event and the time of day. Tuxedos are ideal for black-tie weddings or more formal evening ceremonies, while suits are a better choice for daytime events or more casual affairs.

In conclusion, while both tuxedos and suits have their advantages, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and the level of formality required for the occasion.

Matching the wedding party

• Wedding theme and colours: If you’re having a fall, rustic wedding and are incorporating colours of blush and burgundy, the groom and groomsmen should follow suit. For example, grey suits with burgundy ties.
• Budget and location: Discuss money with your wedding party to ensure everyone can afford the same outfit. Remember that location affects the availability and cost of suits, as well as the need for appointments if you’re going the custom route.
• Plan months in advance: If the groom and groomsmen are matching, go shopping at least four to six months in advance to allow time to order and tailor garments.

If you want the groomsmen to match each other but want the groom to stand out, try the following:

• Feature colour: Have the groomsmen’s attire match your wedding theme, but make the groom’s suit or tux slightly different by picking a feature colour and highlighting it in different ways. For example, if forest green is one of your wedding colours, have the groomsmen wear green ties and grey suits, while the groom wears a forest green suit and grey tie.
• Mismatched attire: No groom and groomsmen need to dress the same. It’s important, however, that everyone at least looks cohesive and adheres to a dress code. If the groom and groomsmen's attire doesn't match, you can incorporate accessories to weave everyone together. Matching socks, ties or boutonnieres are all ways to let the groom and groomsmen stand out from one another, yet still complement each other’s looks.

The groom's outfit should complement the bride's dress. If he’s not allowed to see your gown, give him a few helpful hints so that he can match your look.

The groom and groomsmen’s outfits should also match the formality of the wedding and the venue. Popular groom and groomsmen attire for more formal events include suits and tuxedos, while informal weddings allow for dress shirts and slacks.

Standing out from the groomsmen

While the groom and groomsmen traditionally wear matching attire, there are several ways the groom can stand out from the groomsmen. Here are some ideas to help the groom stand out and be easily identified:

Different Colour or Shade of Suit

The groom can opt for a different colour or a different shade of the same colour. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing dark grey, the groom can stand out in a light grey suit. Alternatively, the groom can wear a bold colour, such as burgundy, while the groomsmen wear black suits.

Different Style of Suit

The groom can choose a different style of suit, such as a double-breasted suit, while the groomsmen wear single-breasted suits. This option is less common, as it may not be aesthetically pleasing, but it is an option to help the groom stand out.

Different Jacket

If the wedding is more casual, the groom can wear a jacket while the groomsmen wear only a vest and tie. Alternatively, the groom can wear a white dinner jacket while the groomsmen wear traditional black tuxedos, or vice versa.

Different Tie or Bow Tie

The groom can stand out by wearing a different tie or bow tie. This option works especially well if the groomsmen are all matching. The groom can also choose a different type of neckwear, such as a bow tie instead of a necktie.

Unique Boutonnière

A unique boutonnière, or "mini-corsage", is a simple way to help the groom stand out. The groom can wear a boutonnière made from the same flower as the groomsmen, but with an additional accent, such as a berry or herb. Alternatively, the groom can wear a different shade of the same flower, a fully open blossom, or a two- or three-blossom boutonnière while the groomsmen wear a single bud.

Different Vest or Cummerbund

The groom can choose a different-coloured vest or a cummerbund to set himself apart from the groomsmen.

Patterned Accessories

The groom can add a dose of character to his look with printed or patterned accessories. A tie is an easy way to incorporate a print, but the groom can also add patterns through socks, suspenders, a pocket square, or even a shirt or jacket.

Different Fabric

The groom can create visual contrast by choosing a different fabric for his suit. For example, the groomsmen can wear polyester suits, while the groom wears a luxurious wool-blend suit. Alternatively, the groom can wear a tweed or corduroy suit while the groomsmen wear simple wool blend suits.

Elevate the Look

The groom can differentiate himself by wearing a different colour or a higher quality, more formal fabric. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing light grey or black, the groom can opt for dark grey or navy.

Remember, the groom's attire should still match the formality of the wedding and the venue. These suggestions offer a range of subtle and bold ways for the groom to stand out from the groomsmen and be easily recognised on this special day.

Formality and venue

The best man's attire should complement the groom's choice of outfit and the overall theme and formality of the wedding.

The best man's attire should match the formality of the wedding venue. For example, a beach wedding will likely be more casual, while a wedding in a place of worship will be more formal.

The time of day is also an important factor. Etiquette dictates that for ceremonies taking place before 6 pm, the best man should wear a tuxedo or morning dress, depending on the groom's choice. For weddings in the afternoon or evening, a tailcoat is the standard choice. If the best man has the freedom to choose, a three-piece suit in a dark shade of grey or blue is recommended.

The season and location of the wedding should also be considered when choosing the fabric of the suit. Warm and exotic locations call for light and breathable fabrics such as linen or a blend of linen and cotton. For outdoor weddings in the evening, wool and silk blends in dark colours are a good choice, while wool and cotton blends are more suitable for weddings in the morning or afternoon.

For a religious wedding, the best man's attire should be formal, traditional, and polished, with no room for creativity. On the other hand, civil weddings can vary in formality, ranging from quick and informal to fancy and classy. It is important to gauge the general mood of the event and choose an outfit accordingly.

Colours and Styles

Blue, especially dark blue, is a popular choice for best men's suits as it flatters any complexion and body type. Charcoal grey is another classic option, inspired by rigorous tuxedos and morning dresses. Black is formal and exclusive but may not be appropriate for traditional weddings, as many countries do not allow black-tie dress codes.

The shirt and tie (or bow tie) are also important considerations. A white shirt is typically recommended, and for the tie or bow tie, plain colours in silk are preferred. It is generally advised that the tie and clutch bag should not be the same shade as the groom's choice.

Accessories

Comfortable shoes are a must for the best man, who will likely be on their feet all day. Matt black, calfskin laced shoes are the traditional choice, but an original detail can be added to make the look less formal. Socks can also add a touch of personality, with colours like burgundy or fire red being acceptable choices.

For very elegant weddings, white gloves and a top hat in the same colour as the suit can be worn, but they should be held rather than worn during the ceremony. A white flower in the buttonhole is also recommended for tuxedos and morning dresses.

Seasonality and comfort

When it comes to weddings, the season and location will have a large influence on what the wedding party wears. If the wedding is outdoors, the weather will be a key consideration.

For a warm, exotic location, a light and breathable fabric is best. A linen suit, or a blend of linen and cotton, is a perfect match for an elegant and formal look. A tailored suit in a classic colour like charcoal grey or midnight blue is always a good choice.

If the wedding is outdoors in the evening, wool and silk in a dark colour like brown will help keep the chill at bay. For an outdoor wedding in the morning or afternoon, a linen suit or a blend of cool wool and cotton will be more comfortable.

For a religious wedding, the best man's attire should be formal, traditional, and polished. There is no room for creativity here. It is recommended to get as much information as possible on the style of the wedding and the party to pick the most appropriate outfit.

For a civil wedding, it depends on the ceremony and what happens next. Some couples may have a reception to follow, while others prefer a quick and informal ceremony. It is recommended to catch the general mood and make your choice accordingly.

If the wedding has a black-tie dress code, the groomsmen should not wear suits. Black-tie dictates that only tuxedos are allowed. Groomsmen wearing suits while the groom wears a tux is a viable option starting with a black-tie optional dress code.

It is important to plan and shop for wedding attire months in advance, especially if alterations are required.

Frequently asked questions