Men’s Formal Wear

In most weddings, the groom, best man, ushers, and even fathers rent their formal wear. A wide selection is available so it’s best to look in a few shops before making a final decision. If possible, rent everything from the same shop and, if not, at least get the same type of suit. There are many choices available: single or double-breasted jackets with notch, peak, or shawl lapels; double inverted pleated or merely pleated trousers with or without a fabric strip running down the side. Select something to fit your formality and the season, and one that will blend nicely with the other colors. Most of the originality and color will come from the myriad choices of cummerbunds, ties, vests, and shirts that are available. They should coordinate with or complement the bridesmaids’ colors.

Consider having the groom’s father in the same outfit as the others. This looks better for pictures and in receiving line. The bride’s father should always be dressed in accordance with the groom and the attendants.

Men’s Semi-formal Wear

For a great look at a less formal wedding, put the groom attendants in suits and ties. For evening or winter, generally navy, black or dark gray is worn. A light white or ivory suit is worn for summer afternoons. If the groom’s suit is white or ivory, it should match the bride’s dress. If she wears ivory, then he should not wear stark white.

With many wonderful things to select from, remember to keep the overall look in mind. This goes without saying: dark shoes and socks with dark suits, and light shoes and sock with light ones.

Men’s Wear Tips

Shop for and reserve your formal wear from size to eight months in advance, in order to ensure availability, especially if you’re getting married in the more popular months.

Pick up the tuxes the day before the wedding so that if there’s a fit problem, there will be time to fix it.

Have all the men try on their whole outfit when they pick it up so they can check for potential fit problems and have them fixed in time

Most men will want to wear their own dress shoes (newly polished) for the highest degree of comfort.