Most wedding invitations give you a dress code for the ceremony and reception. But what should you wear to the rehearsal dinner? Here’s how to put together a men’s rehearsal dinner outfit you won’t second-guess at the front door.
What Is a Rehearsal Dinner and How Formal Is It?
The wedding rehearsal dinner traditionally happens a night or two before the big day. The wedding party practices running through the ceremony, usually onsite at the venue. After the rehearsal, everyone attends a meal, sometimes joined by other close friends and family members.
There is no universal rehearsal dinner dress code for men, and the event itself can look very different depending on the host’s preferences. You may meet at a fancy restaurant or have a buffet at someone’s house. The venue can give you a sense of what to wear, but ultimately the happy couple dictates the dress code.
How To Decide What To Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner
Double-check any invitations, texts, or emails you’ve received leading up to the rehearsal dinner for dress code information. Casual dress codes generally call for a collared shirt and chinos, no jacket required. A semi-formal dinner requires a jacket and possibly a tie. A formal dress code means a full suit.
If there’s no dress code listed, don’t be afraid to ask about the groom’s rehearsal dinner outfit. If he’s wearing slacks and a short-sleeve shirt, you shouldn’t show up in a tux. And if you’d rather not bother him during the busy wedding week, use these three tips to select your outfit.
- Check the Venue
If the rehearsal dinner is being held at a restaurant, check the venue’s website for a dress code. If none is listed, figure out what kind of establishment it is. A casual restaurant or brewery typically calls for a button-down shirt and chinos. A country club could turn you away if you show up in anything less formal than a collared shirt, jacket, and loafers. If you’re going to spend a summer night at a beach or backyard dinner, wear breathable fabrics like cotton or linen in light or neutral colors.
- Consider the Wedding Dress Code
The theme and dress code of the wedding ceremony and reception set the tone for all of the weekend’s activities. If the wedding is black tie, you probably need to wear at least a suit to the rehearsal dinner. A daytime garden wedding means you can probably get away with a collared shirt and loafers or boat shoes. As a general rule, the rehearsal dinner is never dressier than the wedding. But even if the wedding is casual, you should skip the athleisure, graphic T-shirts, and shorts unless the couple says otherwise.
- When in Doubt, Dress Up
If you’ve done your research but still aren’t sure about your outfit, dress a little more formal than you do in your daily life. The extra effort makes you look thoughtful and respectful. If you show up in a suit and feel overdressed, you can take off your jacket and tie and blend right in. Take care of whatever you choose to wear. Clean shoes, a pressed shirt, and clothing that fits well can make a simple outfit look refined.
Best Rehearsal Dinner Outfits for Men
The classics are classic for a reason. These four outfit ideas have you covered for events ranging from casual to formal.
- Dress Shirt and Chinos
If you’re attending an outdoor dinner or hear people throwing around terms like “dressy casual,” your best bet is a dress shirt and chinos. If it’s hot outside, stick with 100% natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, or silk to stay cool. Stick with subtle patterns and neutral colors like black or blue. They look polished and won’t draw attention away from the couple.
Roll your sleeves a turn or two, add a leather belt, and wear clean loafers. Tuck your shirt to make a nice impression. If you show up and see everyone is dressed down, you can always untuck it later.
- Sport Coat and Dress Pants
A sport coat paired with dress pants works well for many rehearsal dinner settings. Try a navy sport coat, light-colored trousers, and a dress shirt. If the venue seems conservative, add a tie. You can also throw in a pocket square or patterned tie to show off your personal style. If it’s a more casual event, drop the tie and unbutton your collar for a more easygoing look.
Pay attention to the little details. Match your shoes to your belt, throw on a watch, and you’re set for a night out.
- Suit Without a Tie
A full suit with no tie is the go-to move for an upscale rehearsal dinner. It offers more polish than a sport coat and trousers while feeling less stiff than a full suit and tie. If the evening calls for cocktail attire, try a suit in charcoal or navy.
A great suit is all about the fit. Your jacket should sit smoothly across your body when it’s buttoned, with no wrinkles or excess fabric. The shoulder seam should lie right where the bony part of your shoulder meets your arm, and about half an inch of your shirt cuff should peek out past your jacket sleeve. Your trousers should land in a slight fold at the top of your shoe. A quick trip to the tailor can make the most basic suit look bespoke.
- Full Suit and Tie
When the occasion calls for more formal attire, opt for a full suit and tie. This is the outfit for dinner at a country club or steakhouse. A black, navy or charcoal suit paired with a solid-color tie creates a classic, polished look.
What Should the Groom Wear to the Rehearsal Dinner?
As the groom, you should stand out at your rehearsal dinner. Wear the most formal options available for the dress code you and your partner select and add an accessory that sets you apart from the groomsmen.
If you’re wearing a neutral suit and white shirt, add a pocket square that matches the color scheme of your wedding. If you’re having a fall wedding, try a dark green or burgundy suit and add a waistcoat. You can also coordinate with your partner — if they’re wearing a floral print, find a matching flower for your lapel.
Men’s Wearhouse Helps You Get Wedding Weekend Style Right
The rehearsal dinner is one part of a wedding weekend filled with memorable moments. Whether you’re getting married or celebrating as a guest, the right outfit helps you feel comfortable and confident for all the festivities.
Men’s Wearhouse can help you build a look for every event on the calendar, from rehearsal dinners to the wedding day itself. Our tailoring, rental, and custom clothing options make it easy to find a fit that looks and feels great.
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