What Grooms Need to Know About Looking Sharp on Wedding Day
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When it comes to planning your wedding, it’s easy for the bride’s dress to take center stage, but let’s not forget about the groom! His outfit deserves just as much thought and attention. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen just about every variation of groom attire you can imagine. From classic black tuxes to trendy green suits and even grooms in ivory dinner jackets. And I’ve also seen how the right (or wrong) outfit can impact your photos, your comfort, and your confidence on the big day. So, let’s dive in!
1. Suit vs. Tuxedo: What’s the Difference?
The classic debate: suit or tuxedo?
- Tuxedos are more formal and are typically worn for evening weddings or black-tie events. They’re usually made of finer fabrics and have satin detailing—most often on the lapels, buttons, and side stripes of the trousers. Tuxes are traditionally worn with a bow tie, cummerbund or vest, and patent leather shoes.
- Suits, on the other hand, are more versatile. They don’t have satin accents and can be styled up or down depending on your wedding vibe. You can wear a tie or bow tie with a suit, and the shoes can range from dressy oxfords to a more relaxed loafer.
Pro tip: If your wedding is more laid-back or takes place during the day, a suit may be the better choice. If you’re going for timeless and formal, tuxedos win.
2. Color Choices: Beyond Basic Black
Gone are the days when a groom had only two options: black or grey. Now, grooms are embracing color—and it looks fantastic in photos! Here are some popular options:
- Black – Classic and elegant; perfect for evening or black-tie weddings.
- Navy Blue – A modern, sharp alternative to black that photographs beautifully.
- Charcoal or Light Grey – A great neutral choice, especially for spring/summer weddings.
- Tan or Beige – Ideal for outdoor or destination weddings with a relaxed vibe.
- Hunter Green or Burgundy – Bold and unique for fall or winter weddings.
- Ivory or White Jackets – Sophisticated and formal, especially paired with black pants.
3. Let’s Talk Lapels
Lapels are the folded flaps of fabric on the front of a suit or tuxedo jacket. Yes, the shape matters!
- Notch Lapel – Most common on suits; versatile and appropriate for many dress codes.
- Peak Lapel – More formal, often seen on tuxedos. Adds sharpness and structure.
- Shawl Lapel – Smooth and rounded; traditionally seen on dinner jackets or more elegant tuxes.
4. Cummerbunds, Suspenders, and Belts—Oh My!
Here’s a breakdown of what goes around the waist:
- Cummerbunds – Usually worn with tuxedos and always paired with a bow tie. They cover the waistband and give a sleek, formal appearance.
- Suspenders – Functional and stylish. Perfect for grooms who don’t want a belt interrupting the lines of their suit.
- Belts – Appropriate with suits but never worn with a tuxedo. Make sure it matches your shoes in both color and finish.
5. 2-Piece vs. 3-Piece Suit
- 2-Piece Suit = Jacket + Pants. Clean and classic.
- 3-Piece Suit = Jacket + Pants + Vest. More formal and polished. A vest adds structure and can look great for grooms who may take their jackets off during the reception but still want to look put together.
6. Double-Breasted vs. Single-Breasted Suits
Another style detail worth considering is the jacket cut: single-breasted vs. double-breasted.
- Single-breasted suits are the most common style. They feature a single row of buttons down the front and a clean, narrow overlap. This style is universally flattering and works well for almost any body type or wedding style.
- Double-breasted suits, by contrast, have a wider overlap and two rows of buttons, offering a more formal and fashion-forward aesthetic. They tend to give off a vintage or European-inspired vibe and are great for grooms looking to make a stylish statement. However, because they add more structure and volume to the torso, they’re not always ideal for every build and should be carefully tailored to ensure the best fit.
A double-breasted suit can look incredibly sharp when done right—but the key is confident styling and expert tailoring!
7. Bonus Tip: Help the Groom Stand Out
One of my favorite things is when a groom adds a personal touch to his outfit. You want him to stand out from the groomsmen—not blend in!
Here are a few subtle (but impactful) ways to do that:
- White or Ivory Dinner Jacket – Absolutely stunning for a formal affair! Just make sure the white of his jacket matches your white. If your dress leans ivory or champagne, a bright white jacket might clash in photos.
- Different Neckwear – The groom can wear a bow tie while the groomsmen wear neckties—or vice versa.
- Unique Vest or Boutonnière – A special color or pattern just for the groom adds a hint of personality.
- Custom Tailoring – Even a subtle detail like monogramming or a different pocket square can set his look apart.
8. Where to Shop: Online vs. In-Person Fitting
Here are some great options, both traditional and modern:
In-Person Fittings Pros:
- Try on different styles, colors, and fits.
- Tailoring can be done onsite.
- Peace of mind knowing it fits properly before the wedding.
Online Rentals or Purchases Pros:
- Convenient and often more affordable.
- Great for groomsmen spread out across different states.
- Trendier, fashion-forward styles available from some boutique shops.
Just make sure: You order early enough for exchanges or alterations—especially if you’re ordering online!
Final Thoughts
Groom attire has come a long way, and it’s a powerful part of your overall wedding style. As a photographer, I can’t stress enough how much a sharp, well-fitted suit or tux can elevate your photos—and your confidence. Whether you go timeless in black or trendy in green, take the time to choose an outfit that reflects the vibe of the day and makes the groom feel like the star he is.
And hey—if you ask me? A white dinner jacket (that matches your dress!) will always be a showstopper. 😍
If you’re still reading, I have a fun little prize for you! I’ve actually partnered with Suit Shop to give you guys an exclusive discount! Use code AMANDAMAY18 for a 10% discount on your SuitShop purchase!
I’m a Knoxville Wedding Photographer that loves to travel. I shoot anywhere! Click here to contact me with any questions you have about pricing or booking! If you liked what you saw above, go ahead and follow me on Facebook or Instagram to see my daily updates of the latest sessions!
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