How To Dress For Weddings: The Ultimate Guide For Men

Ah, weddings—a time to bring out the fancy attire, dust off those dancing shoes, and get ready to party like 1999. But you’ll need to figure out FIRST what to wear before you can let loose on the dance floor, which can be tricky. Will it be a black tie or a cocktail? Formal or semi-formal?   

Sometimes it’s hard to understand the dress code. But don’t worry; you can find something nice to wear and have fun at the wedding with some effort and creativity. Below are some tips and tricks you can consider when dressing for a wedding:

Start With Your Role 

Your role in the wedding can determine how you should dress.

If you’re the groom, your outfit matters as much as your and your partner’s wedding bands. So, you’ll want to wear a formal suit or tuxedo that fits well and complements your bride‘s dress. Also, coordinate with your groomsmen to ensure a cohesive look. As the focus of the wedding, you’ll want to make sure you’re dressed to impress and feel confident on your big day.

Groomsmen, on the other hand, typically wear matching suits or tuxedos to create a cohesive look. You’ll want to coordinate with the groom to ensure your outfit matches the wedding color scheme. The same is true if you’re the best man protecting the rings prior to and during the ceremony. Remember, the goal is to support the groom and help make his day unforgettable, so dress appropriately and be ready to assist with any last-minute tasks. 

As a wedding guest, it’s important to remember that the day is all about the happy couple. While you may want to make a statement with your outfit, it’s important not to overshadow the groom. Stick to classic, understated pieces that complement your outfit rather than stealing the show. You could opt for a classic-colored suit paired with a crisp button-up shirt, a tie, and polished dress shoes to achieve a polished look. 

Know The Dress Code 

Knowing the dress code for a wedding is always ideal, but not all wedding invitations will include this information. If you need clarification on what to wear, don’t hesitate to contact the couple or the wedding planner. Knowing the dress code will help you feel more confident in your outfit choice and show that you respect the couple’s wishes for their big day. 

Dressing as a male guest for a black-tie wedding may seem simple, but it’s quite restrictive. The classic ensemble includes a tuxedo or a tropical dinner jacket and black pants. There’s little room for personal taste, but ensuring that the outfit suits the weather, season, and venue is essential. If opting for a tropical dinner jacket, ensure it’s appropriate for the occasion. 

Cocktail or semi-formal weddings are typically stylish and sophisticated, often in the evening. Fortunately, you don’t need to be too formal to fit in. If you’re feeling confident, suit separates, such as a blazer and slacks, can be a great choice, as long as they’re tastefully paired. Patterns like plaid, pinstripes, or windowpane can add interest to your outfit, but make sure they’re not too loud or distracting.

Consider The Time And Venue 

The next question you need to ask is where the wedding is taking place. When it comes to a beach or boho wedding, comfort and practicality are key. A linen shirt and pants combo is perfect for the occasion. Or if you want to step it up a notch, go for slacks and a traditional dress shirt without a tie. You’ll fit right in with the casual vibe of the ceremony and still look sharp, even if you’re the groom! 

When it comes to outdoor or beach weddings, sunglasses prove to be a sensible choice to ensure your comfort throughout the day. They offer both style and practicality, complementing the overall look while providing protection from the sun’s glare. Well-chosen and quality sunglasses will shield your eyes from bright sunlight and minimizes discomfort caused by squinting.

On the other hand, if you’re attending an indoor wedding at a gothic or ornate church, it’s time to dress to impress. Formal or semi-formal attire is the way to go. If you’re fashion-savvy, a formal dress is definitely an option. But if you’re more of a traditional guy, opt for a classy semi-formal outfit that’ll make you feel comfortable and confident. 

The timing of a wedding can also dictate the dress code. A daytime wedding before 6 pm calls for a suit, while evening weddings after 6 pm are more formal and conducive to tuxedos. If the event straddles day and evening, go with what suits the event closest, and be bold and trust your gut. 

Takeaways 

Whether you’re playing a significant role in the wedding or attending as a guest, taking the time to understand the dress code and selecting the right outfit will ensure you look and feel your best on this special day. So put in the effort, dress appropriately, and get ready to celebrate the love and joy of the happy couple with confidence and style.