Suits for the Groom
She knows what she is going to wear. And let’s face it, she’s probably told you what you are going to wear too. But don’t be cowed into submission; you still have a choice. It might be more than your life’s worth to assert that choice but as much consideration needs to be given to your outfit as has been given to hers. And then of course, there’s the best man and possibly some ushers; it usual for them to dress the same, or similarly. Many people choose the men’s outfits to co-ordinate with the bridesmaids – no, you don’t have to slip into a long, plum-coloured silk number but ties or waistcoats that reflect the colour scheme look good.
Style and comfort is everything on your wedding day so decide which look will best suit you and complement your wife-to-be’s wedding dress and find an outfit that fits well and that you can spend the whole day wearing. Get it altered if need be because there’s nothing worse than seeing a groom and his ushers wriggling uncomfortably in suits that are too long in the arm, too short in the sleeves or too tight in the waist.
So here are a few possibilities for outfits for the groom to consider:
Morning suit:
The traditional choice for a wedding before 3pm is the morning suit – top hat and tails. This style of dress is one of the more popular choices and is usually worn with a white wing-collar.
Some men may have a pair of gloves, but as tradition dictates, they are usually carried and not worn.
Lounge suit:
The look for a lounge suit is simply a smart suit – preferably one that’s never been worn before! A visit to a tailor’s to have the suit specially fitted is always a good idea. Staff can help pick out the perfect ensemble including the suit, tie and shirt.
If you cannot afford to splash out on a new outfit or don’t think you will wear it again you always have the option of hiring a suit from a reputable outfitter.
Black tie:
If your wedding is being held after 3pm or you are planning a ball in the evening, then the traditional wear for the groom is the formal dinner suit with a black tie.
Obviously, if the black tie is your choice of wear, then it is very important that you state this on the wedding invitations when you send them out.
The dinner suit is usually worn with a cotton or silk shirt and a black, silk bow tie. A cummerbund is optional and may be worn with the pleats facing upwards. However, these can be uncomfortable, and so a waistcoat may be a better option as you can co-ordinate these into the colour scheme of the wedding.
Frock coat:
The frock coat is becoming more popular as it comes in a variety of colours – ideal for co-ordination. It is usually made of velvet or brocade and is traditionally worn with a cravat. Most men wear the frock coat with plain black trousers and a winged collar shirt.
Kilt:
Officially you should only choose to wear a kilt if you are Scottish and, if your family has its own tartan, then that is the one to wear.
If you can’t lay claim to your own tartan there are plenty to choose from. Nowadays the kilt is matched with just a shirt but traditionally it is worn with a Bonnie Prince Charlie jacket or a dublet, a sporran, brogues, socks, frilly tie, cuff and skean dhu (a small dagger placed in the sock). As for ‘what lies beneath…’ that is between you and your bride!
Uniform:
If you are in the armed forces, then you can wear your dress uniform, traditionally referred to as ‘the Blues’.
Alternatives:
Of course, this is your wedding so you can wear what you like (within reason, of course, especially if marrying in a church). A loose white linen shirt and trousers complementing her floaty, richly-patterned strapless dress is just perfect for a relaxed beach wedding. And there are themed weddings of all kinds now from Star Trek to Medieval, from retro rock ‘n’ roll to sky-diving ceremonies. Just be prepared to be suitably embarrassed when you get the photographs out to show your grandchildren.
THERE’S something very special about a spring wedding. It’s the favourite time of year for couples to start out on their new life together. But whenever you’re planning to get married, you’ll find the perfect venue for your big day and all the important services you might need to call on to help you through the process - from engagement party to honeymoon - right here in our wedding web pages.
