Planning a wedding requires countless decisions, but choosing groomsmen outfits doesn’t have to cause stress. With the right approach, you can balance your vision with practicality, ensuring everyone looks sharp while feeling comfortable. Understanding current groom suit trends helps you choose groomsmen outfits while creating a cohesive look that stands the test of time and looks beautiful in photos.
Why Groomsmen Outfits Matter
Think of your groomsmen as the supporting cast in your wedding story. They should complement your lead role as the groom without stealing the spotlight. Their attire sets the foundation for the rest of the wedding party while establishing the overall aesthetic your guests will remember.
Keep your wedding theme and venue in mind when considering groomsmen outfit ideas. A beach ceremony calls for lighter fabrics and relaxed fits, while a formal church wedding demands more structured pieces. Your groomsmen’s attire also needs to pair well with the bridesmaids’ dresses to ensure visual harmony.
Style Considerations for Groomsmen
The most important step when choosing outfits for your groomsmen is ensuring they coordinate with your attire for the day. If you’re wearing a classic black tuxedo, your groomsmen might wear charcoal suits to create distinction while maintaining formality. For more casual weddings, men’s wedding suits in navy or light gray offer versatility and modern appeal.
Consider the season, too. Spring weddings shine with lighter colors, while groomsmen stun during fall celebrations in rich, autumnal tones like forest green. Summer calls for breathable fabrics like lightweight wool or linen blends, whereas winter weddings allow for richer textures and heavier materials.
Current trends favor slim and modern fits over boxy, traditional cuts. However, timeless looks never go out of style. Mixing on-trend elements, such as patterned pocket squares or interesting ties, with a classic fit wool blend suit allows you to strike a balance between modern and traditional.
Getting the Fit Right
A proper fit elevates any suit. Schedule fittings at least two months prior to the wedding to allow time for adjustments, and book group appointments when possible for consistency. Make sure jackets end at the hips, trousers break slightly at the shoe, and approximately a quarter-inch of shirt shows at the sleeve.
Determining whether you should rent or buy depends on your budget and future needs. Buying offers the advantage of perfect customization and the option for groomsmen to wear their suits again. Rentals are more affordable, but the options are limited in terms of fit and style.
Keep your groomsmen’s body types in mind when selecting styles. Some may look better in slim-fit jackets, while others might prefer regular or modern fits. Working with an experienced tailor ensures each person looks their best while maintaining overall cohesion.
Color & Accessories
Wedding dress codes heavily influence color and accessory choices. Black-tie events typically require black or midnight blue with matching accessories, while cocktail and semi-formal dress codes allow for more creative color combinations.
For stunning photos, your groomsmen’s colors should coordinate with the bridesmaids’ dresses. They don’t necessarily need to match exactly, though. Complementary colors often create more visual interest. If the bridesmaids wear dusty rose, for example, groomsmen might wear charcoal with rose gold accessories for a cohesive but not overly matched appearance.
Pocket squares add color and texture, especially when they feature patterns that tie into the wedding theme or venue. Ties or bow ties should complement the groomsmen’s suits and the overall color scheme. Subtle patterns or textures add visual interest without overwhelming the look.
Statement accessories work best when used sparingly. Choosing one bold element per person, like a unique boutonniere, colorful socks, or patterned tie, prevents the look from becoming too busy. Remember that accessories should enhance the overall aesthetic, not compete for attention.
Practical Tips for Choosing Groomsmen Outfits
Clear communication keeps the entire wedding party on the same page. Share inspiration photos, color swatches, and specific requirements early in the process. Consider creating a group chat or shared document with all the details, including where to shop, what to order, and important dates.
Be mindful of your groomsmen’s budgets. Communicate openly about expected costs and explore group discounts or package deals. Many retailers offer special pricing for wedding parties, making quality options more accessible.
Order suits or schedule rentals no less than three months before the wedding to avoid last-minute stress and allow time for alterations. Create a shared calendar with fitting appointments and deadlines to keep everyone organized.
Conclusion: Style, Comfort & Fit in Harmony
The best groomsmen outfits balance aesthetics and comfort. When your wedding party feels confident in their attire, that confidence is evident in the photos and creates lasting memories. For more inspiration on coordinating your wedding party’s look, explore our guides on fall wedding suit colors and wedding suit style.