7 Essential Elements of Your Groom’s Style

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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?

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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!

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5 Unique Valentine’s Day Gifts for Guys

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Ladies, are you stuck thinking about what to get your partner for Valentine’s Day? Crazy as it may seem, you don’t have to buy chocolates, lingerie, or alcohol to make his holiday memorable. Check out these fun and creative ideas that are sure to score!

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Sports Event or Concert

Tickets to his favorite team or band are a sure win. He’ll be thinking about how cool you are for the whole next year (or maybe longer). This shows that you really know him and are willing to devote time to his interests.

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Dinner Out

Traditionally, the guy takes you out on V-day, but this can be a romantic surprise. If you think he may have already booked dinner, you can do breakfast, grab a morning coffee, stop by a dessert shop, or make fondue. Let’s face it, we all love food.

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Man Jewelry

This can be anything from a watch to cufflinks to a bracelet (or anything else he happens to like). While men typically aren’t into sparkly hearts, many still enjoy quality jewelry. Steer clear of giving him a ring unless you’re absolutely, completely, 200% sure he’ll like the proposal role reversal.

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Personal Item

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Guys tend to like utilitarian gifts. If his wallet is falling apart or his jeans are ripped, a replacement could be a nice gesture. Just be sure it’s something he likes (not necessary what you would choose), and you’re not throwing out his favorite jersey in an attempt to brush up his looks.

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Time Away

The best gifts aren’t things. Plan a trip or book a class together, and build your relationship on activities instead of physical presents. Hike a mountain or visit a museum—plan out something that appeals to his interests and is an exception to your weekly routine.

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What is your favorite gift to give (or get) on Valentine’s Day?

Roaring ‘20s Wedding Inspiration

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Step into an age of fabulous glamour. If you’re rocking a vintage style for your wedding, check out this classy photo shoot by Amanda Lauran Photography and Michele Wilderman Styling for inspiration!

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Beaded jazz-age dresses and snazzy gent’s attire create a theme of Art Deco opulence. Hair designs featuring fantastic bling lend sophisticated glamour to your look.

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Keep in mind that accessories define your style. Slip on a rhinestone halo like 6505 for a more boho-chic vibe. A glittering comb like 6503 or 6580 adds a classic accent that dovetails perfectly with a slinky satin sheath or vintage lace gown. For a dramatic dose of sparkle, a headpiece like 6501 brings the opulence of the 1920s to your big day!

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This bride and groom incorporated navy blue and metallic grey with a small pop of sparkle and color to spice up their vintage theme. Dramatic makeup, artful bouquets, and winter shrugs suggest a seasonal wedding or New Year’s Eve party.

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Love the look? Check out our My Bridal Style Vintage page and Instagram feed for more elegant vintage wedding details.

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Styled Shoot Credits:

Photography: Amanda Lauran 

Makeup: Michele Wilderman Styling

Producer: Arielle Fera Events

Florals: Chicory Florals

Accessories: Bel Aire Bridal

Gown: BHLDN

Custom Suits: Commonwealth Proper

Furniture: Fox & Finch Vintage Rentals

Create Your Signature Wedding Style

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At every party, there’s room for showmanship. The biggest thing that separates modern weddings from ceremonies even a couple generations ago are the personalized details! Weddings can be fun—and creative—with a splash of YOU mixed in.

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Jessica Cooper Photography spices things up with a styled shoot featuring signature cocktails, homemade favors, calligraphy signs, and seasonal snacks that have our mouths watering. Incorporate DIY details and special touches that feel right to you!

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This bride and groom enjoyed their favorite drinks and set tables with lots of local greenery for a fresh, rustic feeling. The couple’s classic dress code and vintage-inspired rings have us falling in love with this totally down-to-earth, charming wedding.

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Add a dreamy element of personal style with a unique headpiece like 6482. Incorporate golden details with a nature-inspired leafy comb such as 6619 or a pretty floral halo like 6608. This is your day to shine!

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Check out our My Bridal Style pages to discover a wedding look that is perfect for you. Follow us on Instagram for more up-to-the-minute style updates!

Sweet Caroline Styles

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It’s His Wedding, Too!

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Photo Credit: Amanda Lauran Photography

Want to get your husband-to-be involved in the wedding planning process? Show him a photo of a groom wearing a pink cummerbund and tie. That’ll get his attention quick.

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Photo Credit: Amanda Lauran Photography

Then consider these five tips for coordinating a wedding together:

Most guys are willing or even eager to choose their own attire. Check out our Style My Groom board on Pinterest for ideas that range from classic to retro, preppy to jazz age! If he doesn’t step up, you can absolutely feel free to pull out the pink for him and his groomsmen.

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Coordinate your wedding style together. For example, if you have your heart set on a ball gown, a casual look for him might feel out of place. Similarly, if he likes the traditional look of a tux, you might reconsider going barefoot on the beach.

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Unless he wants to dance to your favorite tunes all night, he should help compile a song list! Many guys enjoy picking the DJ, choosing a signature groom’s drink, designing the wedding cake, or scheduling the getaway car.

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Play to each other’s strengths. The tech-savvy partner might be interested in trying a GoPro, scheduling a videographer, handling social media, or creating your wedding website. The artistic partner might enjoy designing your invitations, picking wedding colors, or making DIY decorations.

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Talk about which tasks you’re excited to do and which ones you’re dreading. Help each other out! These days, there are no set masculine or feminine roles in wedding planning.

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Photo Credit: Amanda Lauran Photography

For help choosing your season and/or theme, be sure to browse our other Pinterest boards for inspiration. Above all, have fun! This special day belongs to both of you.

Styled Shoot Credits:

Photography: Amanda Lauran 

Makeup: Michele Wilderman Styling

Producer: Arielle Fera Events

Florals: Chicory Florals

Accessories: Bel Aire Bridal

Gown: BHLDN

Custom Suits: Commonwealth Proper

Furniture: Fox & Finch Vintage Rentals