Men have their own code of style.
Sure, they often gravitate to the same fashion categories as brides (such as bohemian or vintage-inspired), but the way men create a snazzy look is different.
Different does not mean better or worse; in fact, guys are getting bolder and more creative with their wedding day outfits, and we’re head over heels for this trend! So while we love to celebrate beautiful bridal fashions, we feel that groom’s styles can be just as exciting.
For all your fashion-forward brides (or grooms), we’ve put together seven tips about how to create a masculine style that is wedding-appropriate and on theme. Check it out!
Jacket
Perhaps the most striking part of a man’s wedding day look is his level of formality. If a guy is waiting for his bride in a black tuxedo, you can bet her attire will be equally polished. Choose whether your theme will be formal or informal; find out if he prefers a tux or a suit, a jacket with pants, or no jacket at all. Some guys go with a vest or wear suspenders, instead.
Shoes
You can actually tell a lot about someone by checking out their shoes. Colorful sneakers indicate a wedding that is meant to be edgy or whimsical. Shiny dress shoes? A formal affair. Cowboy boots? Definitely rustic. Sandals? Obviously you’re at the beach. Plenty of men add quirky socks to otherwise formal outfits to shake things up, too!
Tie
In most photos of a groom, you’ll see his tie. Choose this accessory wisely—apart from a man’s suit or shirt, a tie is probably the most expressive element of his wedding style. Is it a bow tie? A skinny tie? A vintage-inspired pattern? Made from cotton, silk, polyester? Does it have a tie bar? Does it match the ties of his groomsmen, or coordinate with the wedding colors? Does it match a pocket square?
Cufflinks
Did you know they make superhero cufflinks? They also make ones that look like sheet music, or are shaped like airplanes, or mimic the points of a compass. This quintessentially male accessory is typically a classy, formal touch—and these days, he can choose from literally hundreds of design options. You can even get monograms or engrave your wedding date—the whole point is personalization!
Boutonniere
This classic element of a man’s wedding attire is usually worn by the groom, male family members, and groomsmen. The groom’s boutonniere should mirror his bride’s bouquet, but be smaller and unique to him. Modern couples creatively incorporate not just flowers, but elements such as fabric, greenery, pinecones, berries, or knick-knacks to accentuate a style or theme.
Watch
This accessory is more important than cufflinks, because a man wears it far more often. Some brides will gift their grooms sentimental watches for the wedding, but the style of this functional piece matters. He might prefer to wear one he already owns (as a bride might don her favorite necklace). Watches can look sleek, heavy, formal, complicated, vintage, or trendy.
Extras
Every groom brings his own indefinable charm to his wedding day outfit. Some men might wear suspenders; others may roll up their shirt sleeves. Vintage-inspired guys often wear hats for photos. Sunglasses are both practical and cool-looking. The way he shaves for the big day is telling, too—is he sporting a beard like a mountain man, or going for a sleek, clean-shaven look?
Your groom may choose to rent a tux or put together a custom outfit—but his look is anything but simple. Find a style that’s right for your wedding day, and go from there!
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Want more inspiration?
Follow us on Instagram and check out our Style My Groom Pinterest board!
