So much attention is paid to picking the right wedding dress that choosing the right suit for the groom can be somewhat neglected. Ideally, the perfect suit for the groom is one that makes them look the best as they can whilst complimenting the bride, or their groom. Below we take a look at some of the things to consider when buying a groom suit.
Formal or informal?
Traditionally, the groom’s suit was a formal affair, with the groom wearing one of the following:
Morning Suit – Perfect for afternoon weddings, this consists of a tailcoat, waistcoat and trousers. Formal and very stylish in a traditional way, it is the most popular formal groom suit seen at weddings.
Tuxedo – The classic tuxedo isn’t seen that much in modern weddings but they can be popular at evening weddings
White tie and tails – Essentially the evening equivalent of the morning suit, this is a very elegant formal choice and one that can really give the groom that extra special touch of class.
However over the last few years we’ve seen the number of formal wedding suits decrease whilst there’s been an increase in more informal options. This is down to many factors including tighter budgets but most importantly an increase in men’s interest in wedding fashion. Just as the bride wants to look good, the groom does too! This means that now grooms can choose from a range of less formal suits and waistcoat and tie/bowtie combinations as well as the more traditional options.
Summer or winter wedding?
Depending upon whether your wedding is in the summer of winter may not directly affect your choice of the style of suit, but it should effect your choice of material. In summer where the weather is likely to be warm, a lightweight wool suit or mohair are both good options. Not too heavy and breathable, they’ll make standing around in the sunshine that bit more bearable. In winter, a heavier wool or even tweed can provide that extra bit of warmth.
Get the right colour
The colour of the suit can be affected by several factors. What is the theme of your wedding? Does it rely on the use of particular colours? If so, the suit will have to be of a colour that fits into the wedding’s overall theme. Other considerations will include what colour suits the groom’s complexion and when the wedding is. Summer months for example tend to see lighter shades of suits being more popular.
Ensure the suit is the right fit
Suits are not one-size fits all and different cuts and styles tend to suit different body types.
Short and stocky: Grooms built like this should go for suits that offer natural shoulder lines with reverse double pleated trousers with the pleats extending towards the pocket. This should help elongate the leg and improve the overall look of the suit.
Short and slender: Single breasted jackets are the best for this body type with low buttons to help elongate the body. Once again, reverse double pleated trousers are a good choice to help generally elongate the leg.
Tall and muscular: Most styles of suit tend to look good on taller grooms and they should make the most of their height by choosing a suit with a jacket that isn’t too long. Ideally the fingertips should just be able to touch the bottom of the jacket.
Tall and slim: Once again, most styles suit this body type which means both single and double breasted options are available.
If the groom is getting a suit made by a reputable tailor, they will be able to advise on what looks best for each different body type.
Don’t forget the accessories
The groom’s suit can be a great way to complement the theme of the wedding . This can be done with waistcoats, cravats and pocket squares for example. Having a special suit lining is a nice touch too. Whatever is chosen, just ensure that the best man and ushers’ suits match.