Finding the Right Suit for the Groom - Part 1

Now you’re engaged, the hard part should be over, right? In most cases, the only thing the groom needs to do is dress himself and the groomsmen appropriately and know where to stand. Sounds easy!

However, the fact of the matter is, there are many things to consider when making your final decision on what to wear for the big day. Below we’ve outlined some of the factors you might want to think about before choosing the last suit you’ll wear as a bachelor.

The Setting

When deciding on a suit, consider the setting in which the ceremony will take place. Start with looking at what colours are appropriate for the season. Black, grey, and navy are almost always a match.

However, springtime opens the door for lighter greys, blues, and taupe. In the summer, tans, light browns, and light greys are great choices. Autumn brings medium greys and darker browns into play, while winter ushers in charcoal and midnight blue.

No matter what the season, you’ll also want to make sure you take into account the wedding’s style:
A formal setting requires a black suit with a white shirt. The tie should be either black or white and if possible a bow tie. For this type of occasion, a one-button dinner jacket with peak lapel or shawl collar is a good choice. A vest is also a good idea, along with a pique-front shirt with a turn-down or wing collar.

A semi-formal (lounge suit) occasion calls for a black, charcoal or navy suit. Two-button jackets are ideal in this case, with notch or peak lapels. You should note peak lapels work for weddings as they do add formality to your suit. Thin or wide lapels are both acceptable. A turn-down collar with a double-cuff shirt is also a good idea.

Cocktail weddings allow for all shades of black or grey, and either an open neck or necktie is appropriate. A shirt with a coloured collar or cuff also looks great, as does a uniquely-coloured suit lining. Don’t be afraid to add some personality to your outfit.

For garden weddings, navy, browns, and light- to medium grey are acceptable. In this instance, try to pay special attention and match the surroundings. Also, a three-piece suit is ideal in this case.

In a beach setting, the mood is certainly more casual. Tans, light browns, white, off-white, and light grey are preferred. Here suits can have a more casual fit, and a jacket is optional.

In any setting, a groom’s suit colour should complement the bride’s dress. In a traditional wedding, any colour aside from white will work. Navy, brown, or grey are great choices to coordinate when the bride is wearing the ivory. In this case, a black suit can also be worn; simply complement the bride’s dress with the shirt’s colour and /or texture.