Groomsmen Attire Ideas for a Stylish Wedding Party
Planning a wedding involves many important decisions, and choosing groomsmen attire is one of the biggest style choices for grooms. While bridesmaids often get a lot of attention, the groom’s side also deserves to look sharp and coordinated. This guide will explore the best groomsmen attire ideas to help you plan a cohesive, comfortable, and stylish look for your big day.
Why Groomsmen Attire Matters
Groomsmen attire ideas are an important first impressions, and your wedding party’s style helps set the tone for your entire wedding day. Groomsmen attire should match the formality of your event, reflect the overall wedding theme, and complement the groom’s outfit. When done well, the right outfits create harmony in wedding photos and add to the celebration’s special feel.
Start with the Wedding Theme and Season
Groomsmen attire ideas are a necessity when choosing colors or styles. Always consider the wedding’s theme and the time of year. A beach wedding calls for lighter fabrics and relaxed styles, while a black-tie event needs formal suits or tuxedos. Seasonal colors and weather should guide your fabric and color choices.
For example, linen suits work great for summer weddings, while wool suits are ideal for fall or winter events. Think about the comfort of your groomsmen, especially if they will be outdoors for long periods.
Matching vs. Coordinated Looks
Some couples want all groomsmen to match exactly, while others prefer coordinated outfits with small differences. Both options can look amazing depending on your vision. Matching suits give a clean, traditional look. Coordinated looks allow each groomsman to show a little personality while staying on theme.
For example, you could choose the same suit in different shades or let groomsmen wear different ties or pocket squares that fit your color scheme.
Classic Suit Options for Groomsmen
One of the most popular groomsmen attire ideas is the classic suit. It’s a timeless option that works for most wedding styles.
Navy Blue Suits
Navy blue suits are a favorite because they work in almost any setting. They look formal enough for an elegant venue but still fit casual outdoor weddings. Navy also pairs well with many colors, making it easy to match with bridesmaids’ dresses.
Charcoal and Gray Suits
Charcoal and gray are both excellent neutral options. Gray suits look sharp and modern while also being a little more relaxed than black. For spring or summer, light gray feels bright and fresh. Charcoal is a better fit for fall and winter weddings.
Black Suits
Black suits or tuxedos are best for formal or evening weddings. They look sleek and sophisticated and always photograph well. Add a black bow tie for a polished look or switch to a necktie for a slightly more relaxed feel.
Tuxedos for a Formal Look
If your wedding has a black-tie dress code, tuxedos are the best choice. Groomsmen tuxedos should match or coordinate with the groom’s. Stick with classic black or midnight blue, and consider satin lapels and trim for added style.
Add formal touches like patent leather shoes, cufflinks, and pocket squares. You can also include boutonnières that match the bridal bouquets to tie the entire wedding party together.
More Relaxed Groomsmen Attire Ideas
Not every wedding calls for full suits or tuxedos. If you’re planning a casual or rustic celebration, there are many stylish options that feel more relaxed.
Dress Shirts and Suspenders
For a rustic or barn wedding, you can skip jackets and use dress shirts with suspenders and rolled-up sleeves. This style works well for warm weather and outdoor ceremonies. Add bow ties or floral boutonnieres for extra charm.
Vests Instead of Jackets
Another great option is pairing dress pants and vests. Vests give a polished look without the warmth or formality of a full suit. This style works well for vintage, garden, or country-themed weddings.
Mix and Match Styles
Mixing different pieces creates a laid-back, personal look. You might have each groomsman wear a different patterned tie or shirt while sticking to a similar color palette. This makes the group feel unified but still lets each person express their own style.
Seasonal Groomsmen Attire Ideas
Each season brings different fashion opportunities. Let’s look at some groomsmen attire ideas that suit every season of the year.
Spring
Spring weddings are a time for lighter colors and floral touches. Consider gray, light blue, or pastel suits. Add fresh flowers to boutonnieres and colorful pocket squares.
Summer
Summer weddings are usually warm, so comfort is key. Choose breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Light colors like beige, tan, or cream look sharp and help keep groomsmen cool. Loafers or boat shoes are good casual options.
Fall
Fall weddings look great with warm, rich tones. Burgundy, dark green, and deep blue are excellent choices. Tweed suits or wool blends offer texture and warmth. Add plaid ties or patterned socks for a seasonal touch.
Winter
Winter calls for deeper colors and heavier materials. Choose black, navy, or charcoal suits in wool or velvet. Layer with overcoats or scarves for cold weather photos. Leather gloves can also add style and warmth.
Accessories That Complete the Look
Accessories help finish off your groomsmen’s outfits and tie everything together. Here are some popular ideas:
Ties and Bow Ties: Match these to the wedding colors or use patterns for variety.
Pocket Squares: These add a stylish pop and are great for photos.
Cufflinks: Personalized cufflinks make great gifts and add polish.
Socks: Fun socks can show off personality and bring color into formal wear.
Shoes: Match the style of the wedding—leather dress shoes for formal, loafers or boots for casual.
Coordinating with Bridesmaids
Make sure your groomsmen outfits work well with what the bridesmaids are wearing. You don’t need to match exactly, but the colors should complement each other. For example, if bridesmaids wear dusty rose, try navy suits with rose-colored ties or boutonnieres.
You can also coordinate through small details, like matching floral patterns in ties and dresses or using the same flowers in bouquets and boutonnières.
Renting vs. Buying Groomsmen Attire
Many groomsmen prefer renting their suits, especially for formal weddings. Renting is more affordable and convenient when everyone lives in different cities. Look for rental services that let you order online and try on the suit ahead of time.
Buying may be better if the suits are less formal or something your groomsmen can wear again. If you’re going the custom route, give your groomsmen enough time for tailoring.
Internal links: If you’re still choosing your venue or theme, see our post on modern wedding ceremony ideas to help match your groomsmen’s outfits.
Personalized Groomsmen Gifts
Along with looking good, your groomsmen deserve a thank-you for being part of your special day. Consider giving them a personalized item that ties into their outfit. Some great groomsmen gift ideas include:
Engraved cufflinks
Monogrammed tie clips
Custom socks or shoes
Personalized flasks or wallets
These gifts are useful on the wedding day and serve as keepsakes after.
Destination Wedding Groomsmen Style
Destination weddings often require different attire. Beach weddings usually call for short-sleeve shirts, linen pants, or even shorts. Tropical prints, sandals, or bare feet may be welcome depending on the ceremony location.
Let groomsmen know what to pack and how formal the event will be. Lightweight, breathable materials work best for tropical climates. For mountain or cold-weather weddings, warm layers and wool coats may be necessary.
Final Tips for Groomsmen Attire Success
Plan Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to choose groomsmen outfits.
Be Clear: Share style and color instructions with your wedding party early.
Think Budget: Choose something affordable so all groomsmen feel comfortable.
Consider Fit: Everyone should get their suits tailored or fitted for a sharp look.
Try it On: Have a fitting day or virtual try-on to avoid day-of issues.
Conclusion: Groomsmen Style That Stands Out
Choosing the right groomsmen attire ideas helps your wedding feel stylish, coordinated, and memorable. Whether you want classic suits, relaxed shirts, or something in between, your choices should reflect your theme, season, and personality.
Make sure everyone in your wedding party feels good in what they wear. When the groom and groomsmen look great, your wedding photos will shine, and the celebration will feel even more special.
For more inspiration and ideas on dressing your entire wedding party, check out this helpful groom and groomsmen style guide from The Knot.