How to Nail Every Men's Wedding Dress Codes
April 12, 2023
It's time to talk wedding dress codes and we're not holding back. Whether you're the groom, best man, or just a stylish guest, nailing the dress code is essential. But fear not, we've got you covered from black tie to beach chic.
When it comes to wedding dress codes, men often find themselves at a loss for what to wear. Do you go with the traditional suit and tie? Or maybe something a little more casual? There's nothing worse than being under- or over-dressed for the occasion. With so many different wedding dress codes, it can be hard to know what is appropriate.
The good news is that there's a solution to this problem: custom-made, high-quality clothing will ensure that your outfit is both stylish and appropriate for the event. Plus, custom clothing is an investment that will pay off in the long run. You can wear your suit or tuxedo repeatedly, making it one of the best investments you've ever made.
Most Common Wedding Dress Codes for Men
While wedding dress codes for women are often more lenient, men have to be a bit more careful. There are a few different options when it comes to wedding dress codes for men. Let's break down some of the most common types below.
Black tie
The black tie dress code is a formal wedding dress code. A black tie outfit typically consists of a black tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and black patent leather shoes. You have to ensure that your clothing is clean and pressed — no one wants to see wrinkles at a wedding. A nice pair of dress shoes will complete your outfit and leave a lasting impression. If you're attending a black tie wedding, it's important to be well-groomed to look your best.
White tie
A white tie wedding is a truly elegant affair and the most formal of all men’s wedding dress codes. It calls for a certain level of formality in terms of dress. For men, this typically means wearing a black tailcoat, white shirt, white vest, and white tie. While this may seem like a lot of white, keep in mind that the goal is to look clean and sharp. If you're unsure which route to go, err on the side of formality and opt for the tailcoat. With the right accessories, you'll be sure to make a lasting impression.
Formal
Choosing an ensemble for a formal wedding dress code is actually quite simple. The key is to remember that dark colors are always more formal than light, and that classic silhouettes are always a good bet. For daytime weddings, a dark suit or tuxedo is always appropriate. If the weather is warm, you may want to go with a lighter fabric such as cotton.
Semi-formal
A semi-formal wedding is a great opportunity to dress up and have some fun with your wardrobe. For men, this typically means wearing a suit or sport coat and tie. However, there is no need to go overboard with the formality. A dark suit in navy or charcoal gray will be appropriate for most occasions. If you don’t own a suit, you can also wear a dress shirt and dress pants. Just be sure to avoid anything too casual, like jeans or khakis. When it comes to shoes, Oxfords or loafers are always a good choice. Don’t forget to accessorize. A pocket square or boutonniere will add a touch of style without being too over the top.
Casual
The casual wedding dress code is the least formal of all the wedding dress codes for men. A casual outfit for a man can consist of jeans, shorts, a t-shirt or polo shirt, and sneakers or sandals. It's important to note that clothing should be clean and well-fitting when dressing casually for a wedding.
Tropical or Destination
Styling Tips and Wedding Dress Code Do's and Don'ts
With wedding attire, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. It's important to be respectful of the dress code. If the invitation says "black tie," that means no jeans or sneakers.
2. While you want to look your best, it's also important not to upstage the bride or groom.
3. A watch is always a nice touch, avoid using it with a tuxedo, though.
4. Avoid any colors that might clash with the bride's dress.
5. Make sure your suit or tuxedo is well-tailored and fits well.
6. Remember to add a few personal touches to your outfit, such as a boutonniere or pocket square.
7. Don't forget about your shoes! Make sure they're polished and comfortable — you don't want sore feet by the end of the night.
