How to Choose Groomsmen Suits: The Ultimate Guide

Selecting groomsmen suits can feel overwhelming with the variety of options available. You want to pick attire that not only complements the groom but also fits the vibe of your wedding day. Whether you’re envisioning a formal, semi-formal, or laid-back look, getting the balance right between style and comfort is essential.

In this guide, we'll break down each step to help you streamline the decision-making process, ensuring your groomsmen look sharp while reflecting the overall tone of your celebration.

Let’s dive in and explore the best tips to make sure your groomsmen look their best and your wedding party feels cohesive.

1. Understanding the Wedding Theme

The first step in selecting groomsmen suits is understanding the overall wedding theme. Is your wedding going to be a black-tie affair, a casual beach gathering, or somewhere in between? The formality of the event will largely dictate the type of suits you choose.

Formal Weddings

For a black-tie or formal event, groomsmen should wear tuxedos or formal suits. Classic colors like black, charcoal, or navy suits work well for these occasions. Black-tie events traditionally require black suits or tuxedos with a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie.

Semi-Formal Weddings

If the wedding is semi-formal, there’s more flexibility in terms of fabric, color, and style. Think charcoal gray, dark navy, or even lighter shades depending on the season. Semi-formal weddings offer more room for creativity without stepping too far from traditional formal weddings.

Casual Groomsmen Attire

For a more laid-back wedding, the right groomsmen attire can be significantly relaxed. Lighter fabrics, such as linen or cotton, are ideal, especially for warm climates. Lighter colors like beige, light gray, or soft blue work well. Consider ditching the tie altogether for an effortlessly casual vibe.

2. Matching the Groom’s Attire

While the groomsmen's attire should complement the groom’s attire, they don’t necessarily have to match exactly. It’s important to maintain cohesion within the wedding party, but subtle differences can help highlight the groom while keeping the groomsmen looking sharp.

Same Suit, Different Accessories

One way to differentiate the groom from his groomsmen is to have them all wear the same suit but give the groom distinctive accessories. This could be a different tie, pocket square, or boutonniere. The idea is to create a cohesive look that still allows the groom to stand out.

Different Suit, Same Color Scheme

Another option is for the groom to wear a slightly different suit. For instance, the groom might wear a darker shade of blue or gray, while the groomsmen wear a lighter version. This way, the groom still stands out, but the group maintains a unified color scheme.

3. Consider the Season and Location

The time of year and the wedding location are important factors to consider when choosing groomsmen suits. A winter wedding in the city will call for different groomsmen attire than a summer wedding on the beach.

Winter Weddings

For winter weddings, heavier fabrics like wool or tweed are appropriate. Darker colors such as navy, black, or deep gray are typically preferred during colder months. Layering, such as adding a vest, can also work well in cooler temperatures. Ensure the dress code aligns with the formality of the wedding and location.

Summer Weddings For warmer months, opt for lighter fabrics like cotton, linen, or blends that offer breathability. Colors like light gray, beige, or even pastel shades can make a stylish statement while ensuring your groomsmen remain comfortable.

4. Choosing the Right Fit

Fit is perhaps the most important aspect of any suit. A well-fitted suit can elevate the overall look, making the wearer appear sharp and confident. Poorly fitted suits, on the other hand, can undermine even the most expensive attire.

Tailored Fit

Tailored or custom-fit suits are ideal for ensuring each groomsman looks his best. Tailored suits are made to measure, guaranteeing that they fit the individual's body shape perfectly. While this option can be more expensive, the result is a polished, sophisticated look that’s worth the investment.

Slim Fit

Slim-fit suits are a popular choice for modern weddings. They offer a sleek, contemporary silhouette without being too tight. This style is great for men with slimmer builds but may not be the most comfortable for everyone, particularly in hot weather.

Classic Fit

For a more traditional look, classic-fit suits offer a more relaxed fit with wider legs and a roomier jacket. This style is comfortable and flattering for most body types, making it a good all-around option for groomsmen.

5. Coordinating Colors with the Wedding Palette

Choosing colors that align with the wedding attire ensures a cohesive look. Your wedding theme should be reflected in the groomsmen's suits in a subtle but noticeable way. This could be in the ties, pocket squares, boutonnieres, or even the color of the suits themselves.

Neutral Tones

Neutral tones like black, gray, and navy are timeless choices that work well for almost any wedding. They’re versatile and can be easily paired with different colors for accessories. Black is best suited for formal weddings or evening weddings, while navy and gray offer more flexibility for semi-formal events.

Bold Colors

If you’re looking to make a statement, consider incorporating bolder colors into the groomsmen's suits. Shades like burgundy, forest green, or even light blue can add a unique touch to the wedding. Just ensure that these colors complement, rather than clash with, the overall wedding themes of the wedding.

Accents in the Details

If you don’t want the entire suit to be a bold color, consider adding accents through accessories. Ties, pocket squares, and socks can add pops of color that tie into the wedding theme without overwhelming the look.

6. Balancing Budget and Style

Weddings can be expensive, and groomsmen's attire is no exception. It’s important to find a balance between style and budget to ensure everyone in the wedding party is comfortable with the financial commitment.

Set a Realistic Budget

Before you begin shopping, it’s important to establish a budget that works for everyone. Custom suits can be pricey, but there are plenty of affordable off-the-rack options that still look great. Keep in mind that in addition to the suit, your groomsmen may need to purchase or rent accessories like shoes, ties, and cufflinks.

Renting vs. Buying

Renting groomsmen attire can be a cost-effective solution, especially if your groomsmen don’t often wear formal attire. Many rental companies offer packages that include everything from the jacket to the shoes, simplifying the process. However, if your groomsmen are likely to need a suit in the future, it may be worth investing in something they can wear again.

7. Involving Your Groomsmen in the Decision-Making Process

It’s important to consider your groomsmen's preferences and comfort when selecting their attire. After all, they’re the ones who will be wearing the groomsmen's suits all day! Involving them in the decision-making process can help ensure everyone is happy with the final choice.

Consult with Your Groomsmen

Ask your groomsmen for their opinions on style, color, and fit. Some may prefer a more traditional look, while others might be open to something a little more unique. Their input can help guide your decision and ensure that everyone feels confident in what they’re wearing.

Body Types and Comfort

Remember that not all suits work for all body types. What looks great on one person might not be as flattering on another. Be mindful of your groomsmen's different body shapes and sizes when choosing wedding suits. Comfort is key, so make sure the suits allow for easy movement, especially if there will be dancing or other activities.

8. Accessorizing the Groomsmen Suits

Accessories are the finishing touches that pull the whole look together. From ties and pocket squares to shoes and belts, the right accessories can enhance the overall style of the groomsmen's attire.

Ties and Bow Ties

Ties and bow ties are classic accessories that can either match the suit or provide a pop of color. Solid colors, subtle patterns, or even a floral print can work, depending on the style of the wedding.

Pocket Squares

A pocket square adds a touch of elegance to any suit. For a formal wedding, a crisp white pocket square is always a safe bet. For a more laid-back affair, consider matching the pocket square to the wedding theme for a cohesive look.

Boutonnieres

Boutonnieres are another way to tie the groomsmen's attire into the wedding theme. These small floral arrangements are traditionally worn on the left lapel and can be customized to reflect the wedding palette.

Shoes

Shoes are a key part of the overall look. Classic leather shoes in black or brown are typically the go-to for groomsmen wear at formal weddings. For more casual weddings, loafers or even stylish sneakers could be an option, depending on the vibe.

9. Coordinating with Bridesmaids and the Wedding Party

Ensuring that the groomsmen's attire coordinates with the bridesmaids’ dresses is an important consideration. While they don’t need to match exactly, the entire wedding party should look harmonious and reflect the overall theme.

Color Coordination

If the bridesmaids are wearing a specific color, consider incorporating that hue into the groomsmen attire. Ties, pocket squares, and boutonnieres are great ways to tie the two sides of the wedding party together without being too matchy-matchy.

Style Alignment

The formality of the bridesmaids’ dresses should align with the groomsmen's suits. If the bridesmaids are wearing floor-length gowns, the groom and groomsmen should be in suits that reflect the same level of formality.

Last-Minute Tips for Picking Groomsmen Suits

Before making the final decision on how to pick groomsmen suits, keep these last-minute tips in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Plan Ahead: It’s important to start the process of choosing suits early, especially if you’re opting for custom or tailored groomsmen suits tend. This will give you plenty of time for adjustments.
• Get Fitted: Ensure that all your groomsmen are properly fitted for their perfect groomsmen suits. A suit that fits well can make all the difference.
• Stay Consistent: Try to maintain a consistent look throughout the groom and groomsmen's attire. Even small details like matching shoes and belts can help create a unified appearance.