Brides tend to get a lot of attention and advice regarding their wedding fashion, while grooms are often left out. However, this is your day, too, and it’s important to look your best! To help you pick the perfect look for your wedding day, here are some of the most common fashion mistakes grooms make and how to avoid them.
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Mistake 1: Not Understanding the Dress Code
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to grooms’ fashion. Most weddings have a dress code, whether it’s black tie optional or beach chic. Knowing and following the dress code are key to creating a cohesive look with the rest of the wedding.
When it comes to wedding suits for men, underdressing and overdressing can be equally embarrassing. To avoid sticking out like a sore thumb, talk to your spouse-to-be or wedding planner about the dress code. For instance, for a black-tie wedding, you should wear a tuxedo or formal suit, while for a beach wedding, you might not need a tie at all.
Mistake 2: Mismatching Colors
Your outfit should complement the attire of your soon-to-be spouse, the rest of the wedding party, and the décor. This doesn’t mean exactly matching but instead using the same palette. For example, if your partner is wearing white with light blue accents, you might choose a pale gray suit with navy men’s ties for you and your wedding party.
Another consideration is the cohesive look of your ensemble. Make sure that all the colors you choose — from the tie to the pocket square and shoes — work together. Your belt should match your shoes, and the colors in the tie should complement those of the pocket square. Choosing your accessories in this manner can go a long way toward creating a sharp, wedding-ready look.
Mistake 3: Not Tailoring Your Suit
No two bodies are alike, so you can’t expect off-the-rack suits to fit perfectly. Even the most stylish suit may not look its best if it doesn’t fit correctly. To avoid this, get your suit or tux tailored to flatter your unique shape and size.
Good tailors can adjust the suit so it fits snugly and flatters your body type. They can also shorten sleeves, adjust the pants’ length, and even shape the collar of your shirt so it looks perfect with your tie. While tailoring does come at a cost, getting the ideal fit is worth it.
Mistake 4: Overdoing the Accessories
Accessories can help to add interest and a personal touch to your look. However, too much of a good thing can be overwhelming. Many grooms are tempted to go beyond the basic tie and pocket square combination, wearing a vest or cummerbund, a top hat, silk lapel flowers, cufflinks, necklaces, a watch and the like. This can be too much and detract from the overall look.
The key is to be selective. Rather than a mountain of accessories, choose one or two that truly stand out. A well-placed pocket square, a pair of polished cufflinks or a sleek watch can add the perfect finishing touch without going overboard.
Mistake 5: Forgetting About Socks
It may seem trivial but don’t forget about your socks. Simply throwing on your go-to pair of white tube socks won’t cut it. Instead, choose a colorful pair that adds a stylish touch to your ensemble.
Bold and patterned socks can be a fun addition for more casual weddings, while subtle stripes and checks are perfect for semi-formal events. For a classic look, go for a pair of wool socks in the same color as your suit.
Whatever socks you choose, make sure they’re long enough to cover any exposed skin when you’re standing. There’s nothing more distracting from a groom’s look than a flash of skin between his trouser and shoe.
Mistake 6: Skimping on Shoes
Your shoes should be just as polished as the rest of your outfit. Many grooms skimp on their footwear, choosing inexpensive shoes that will only last them through the wedding. However, this often results in shoes that look scuffed and worn down, even if they’re brand new.
Instead, invest in a pair of high-quality leather shoes that will last for years. Choose a timeless style like oxfords, derbies, or loafers, and make sure they’re appropriately sized. A good pair of men’s dress shoes will not only look great but also be comfortable enough to let you dance as long as you want to.
Mistake 7: Not Considering the Weather
Don’t overlook the practicalities of wedding fashion. Weddings are held in all sorts of weather, from scorching summers to freezing winters, so make sure you consider the forecast when selecting your suit or tux. The risks of wearing a wool suit in the middle of summer or a thin tuxedo in winter are more than just discomfort — excessive sweating or shivering could ruin your whole look.
Opt for lightweight fabrics like linen and cotton in the summer months and wool blends or velvet during colder weather. Most importantly, always have a backup plan if the temperature drops or rises unexpectedly.
Mistake 8: Being Too Trendy
Trends come and go, but photos last forever. Your wedding photos will be a cherished reminder of your special day, so you want to make sure your look stands the test of time. When selecting your outfit, avoid anything too trendy or offbeat, especially if it’s a style you don’t usually wear.
Rather than choosing a look that will quickly become dated, stick to classic styles. You can add personal touches like colorful socks or pocket squares, but be sure to keep the overall look timeless. That way, you can look back on your wedding photos with pride for years to come.
Final Thoughts
As a groom, you can make a stunning impression on your wedding day. Fortunately, there’s no need to overthink your wedding-day fashion when you can avoid these simple mistakes. With a bit of careful consideration and attention to detail, you’ll be ready to look and feel your best as you say, “I do.”