Being part of a wedding entourage is definitely rewarding, exciting, and fun.
But planning what to wear as a groomsman and making sure you won’t lose your own personality when you dress up for the big day could be a bit tricky, especially when you’re following a motif or dress code for the entourage.
In an occasion where curated group photos are the main goal, you must find the thin line between blending in, but still expressing your own individuality.
Yes, it can be confusing. But that’s why you have us!
Before we start, you need to confirm the wedding colour palette, theme, or motif.
DRESSING UP WHEN THERE’S A STRICT DRESS CODE
Some couples already have a predetermined style for their entourage. Some even pay for it. But it doesn’t mean we can’t tweak it a bit so we can stand out, too!
We totally get that you want to express your individuality. Who would want to be like a cookie cutter image of the rest of the blokes as part of an entourage?
But before anything else, you have to communicate with the couple first of how much tweaks they can allow for your own style freedom.
Now, here are some tips to embellish that mould:
-
Accessorise!
-
Fit is King
-
Make suggestions.
A well-picked accessory will give that right amount of oomph on your outfit.
To avoid completely departing from the motif, we highly suggest to opt for not too bold choices.
Lean towards the wedding colour palette as much as possible, and spice it up with pieces of accessories.
Small patterns tends to blend it, but the tiny details make it more appealing.
Try mixing it up by choosing a different fabric, like faux leather for bow ties, or shantung for pocket squares. Throw in some matching cufflinks, too.
These subtle pieces make a difference, but will not make you the odd one out.
A tailored suit simply screams “dapper”.
Usually, the bride and groom send schedules for appointments with the tailor.
Take advantage of this, and let them take your measurements and fit the suit and trousers you’ll be wearing.
So, make sure you show up and don’t be late during appointments!
This will guarantee you a better fit, and you’ll also have ample time to speak with the tailor about the specifics on your measurements.
If you really think adding something extra on the entourage attire or changing it up a little will help the whole picture come together, don’t be shy to let the couple know.
But make sure you communicate with them as early as possible so changes can still be made.
And of course, don’t be too pushy. You also have to consider that they might have curated this outfit already with the entire wedding style.
THE DECISION IS YOURS
So you have complete control on what to wear? Awesome, mate!
That is great news because you will be able to have your personal stamp on what you’re going to wear.
But there are a few things you still have to be mindful about.
-
Buy or Rent?
-
Stand Out, But Don’t Be The Odd One Out
-
Is It a Match?
One of the cons of having full freedom on what to wear on a wedding as a groomsman is deciding how far you’ll go with your budget.
So here, you have to decide whether to buy or rent for your outfit.
Rental option is the way to go for those who don’t need suits a lot and are on a budget.
There’s a lot decent rental options in the market right now. It would just depend on how much you are willing to spend.
But nothing says “personal” than a piece of clothing made just for you.
After all, the quality and fit of a well-tailored suit is really worth every quid as you can still reuse it in the years to come. So, why not spend a little more?
The engaged couple must have put a lot of TLC into planning their wedding day.
They’ve laboured over the wedding theme, the venue, the flowers, and just about every aspect to paint a cohesive picture.
Think about all the other details of the big day, and ask the bride- and groom-to-be for entourage wardrobe pegs so you’ll have a clearer picture of the whole vibe.
Once you’ve decided on an ensemble that matches the the whole wedding aesthetic, you can now put your own twist into your outfit. Make it your own!
But don’t forget to seek approval first by sending the couple a photo of your chosen outfit to avoid unpleasant surprises on the big day.
We kept on insisting how you should match the wedding motif. But don’t forget one of the obvious style to match with: the bridesmaids.
Of course, the engaged couple wouldn’t want have their bridesmaids and groomsmen to look like they are attending two different weddings. So make sure you coordinate with the other side of the party, too.
You can put on tiny details that will match the bridesmaids dresses or the colour of the flower bouquets. You don’t need to pattern your suit with their colour motif (though that will truly be a headturner). Simply throw in some cufflinks or a simple handkerchief for that subtle matching moment.
To sum it up, everything starts and ends with a solid and open communication with the couple.
Afterall, it is their special day; so, do them a favour.
Adjust on what will make them happy without losing yourself along the process.
For every sartorial bits you might need for that special day, we surely got a thing or two to offer you. Just dive right in!
