Menswear GUIDE
Photographer: Blue Lace Photography Tuxes: Generation Tux
Where to begin?!
Start by perusing PINTEReST and Menswear magazines.
I find it helpful to search for photographs of wedding parties wearing the same colors as the ones you are incorporating into your big day.
Gathering inspiration helps identify the colors and styles that best suite you and the event.
COnsider Formality, Setting, & Season
Once you have a general sense of what colors and styles you are drawn to, review the specifics of the day.
What is the Dress code?
Rule of thumb, the groom & groomsmen should dress a step above the event’s dress code. In general, the wedding party should stand apart from the rest of the attending guests. So, if the dress code is “cocktail attire” it would be appropriate for the groom and groomsmen to dress in black tie.
At what type of venue is the event taking place?
Often times the venue sets the dress code.
It would be strange to wear a tuxedo to a rustic barn wedding or a linen suit to a opera house.
When is the event?
Consider the season and weather. While stye is important, so is comfort!
Tux or suit?
the MAIN DISTINCTION BETWEEN the two is that one is considered “Dressier” than the other.
Tuxes are formalwear most often worn at black & White tie events. Tuxes also, most notably, include satin details and a bow tie.
Suits, on the other hand, can be dressed up or down. There are more variations in colors, textures, and fits. Because of this, suits have become the most popular option.
Do the groomsmen and groom need to match?
Traditionally, the groom’s attire is slightly different than the groomsmen’s. but, it is not a requirement.
Common combinations include:
The groom and groomsmen wearing the same suit, but the groom wears a bow tie while the groomsmen wear a regular tie.
The groom and groomsmen wear the same style suit, but the Groom wears a different color. Or, a different color/fabric jacket.
The groom and groomsmen wear the same suit, but the groom wears a plain or patterned tie while the groomsmen wear the opposite.
The groom wears a three piece suit, while the grooms wear the two-piece version.
the groom wears a tux and the groomsmen wear a suit in the same color.
Variation in accessories, such as socks or pocket squares
Rent or buy? And from where?
It is most common to rent . The exception being if the attire will often be worn again in the future, and thus purchasing makes more sense.
Some grooms may purchase their attire for sentimental reasons.
also, Owning your suit/tux often ensures a perfect fit
While a groom can request that all his groomsmen buy their attire, it is more considerate to give them the option.
If buying these are some stores i recommend:
Department Stores: Macys, Nordstrom, or JC Penney
Renting is a great option if budget is a concern or you are wanting your groomsmen to wear a nontraditional color/style.
Men’s Warehouse has, of course, lead the pack when it comes to renting men’s formal ware. Mainly due to the fact that they are located all over the country. That being said…I’m not always fan. I find that their customer service can be hit or miss.
Luckily, Some new Online rental options (that require less leg work) have come on the scene.
The BlaCk Tux - They also have showrooms at many Nordstroms. Orders are delivered two weeks before the big day, which gives grooms and groomsmen plenty of time to try on their suits.
Generation Tux - Very similar to Black Tux.
Menguin: https://www.menguin.com/
Stitch & Tie: https://stitchandtie.com/
Aside from the list above, I always recommend checking out your local mom & Pop rental store.
When should I secure my Groom & Groomsmen Attire?
It is never too early to start thinking about what you’d like to wear on the big day. I encourage grooms to consider all their options and to visit multiple tux/suit shops.
It is best to make a final decision on groom and groomsmen attire 4-5 months in advance. The rest of the timeline varies by Store. Some retailers don’t need final measurements and orders until the month before, while others may need more time.
After selecting yours and your groomsmen’s attire ensure you get the follow questions answered:
when should i get measured?
WHen should i place my order/make my purchase?
If purchasing, do you offer in store alterations or suggest a Tailor?
what is the deadline for my groomsmen to either purchase or submit their measurements/order?
If renting, when do my groomsmen and I pick up our tuxes/suits?
If renting, When do the items need to be returned?
What should the dads or ushers wear?
There are no ruled when it comes to other wedding party members’ attire. Most important is that the look is cohesive and that everyone’s attire coordinates.
often is is easiest to have fathers and ushers wear the same attire as the groomsmen with a small color or accessory differentiation . But, it is not necessary!
Don’t forgot to have fun and to wear what makes you feel confident on the big day! I once had a wedding party where everyone wore different colored Hawaiian shirts! It perfectly fit the groom’s style and the vibe of the day!
