Ah, wedding season. Isn’t it great? There’s nothing better than watching two lovebirds tie the knot while you get blackout drunk and eat your body weight in cake and sausage rolls.
But before the fun can start, you have just one stumbling block to overcome: the dress code. What the hell do you wear?
To help, we’ve rounded up 10 versatile pieces that you can rock for the big day and beyond. Whether it’s a summer ceremony or an evening reception, these stylish staples are a must-have if you’re serious about being the best-dressed guy on the dance floor.
Dos and Don’ts of Wedding Attire
- Do follow the dress code. Adhere to the specified dress code on the wedding invitation (if there is one). Whether it's black-tie, semi-formal, or casual, dressing in line with the theme shows respect for the couple and occasion.
- Do consider the season. Choose attire that suits the season and climate. Opt for lightweight fabrics, such as linen, for summer weddings and embrace warmer, layered options for winter celebrations.
- Do choose appropriate footwear. Be sure to match your footwear to the formality of the event. Formal shoes like Oxfords or loafers work well for traditional weddings, while clean and stylish sneakers may be suitable for more casual affairs.
- Do accessorise. When necessary, elevate your look with accessories. A tie, cufflinks, and a well-chosen pocket square can add a touch of personality without overshadowing the rest of your ensemble.
- Don’t dress to casual. Unless the invitation specifies casual wear, refrain from donning overly casual attire like jeans, T-shirts, or sneakers. It's a celebration, so aim for a polished look.
- Don’t be flashy. While standing out is great, it’s important to avoid stealing the spotlight from the couple. Skip overly flashy colours or attention-grabbing patterns that may distract from the main event.
- Don’t forget to iron. Wrinkled clothing can diminish the impact of a well-chosen outfit. Ensure your attire is properly ironed and creases are kept to a minimum.
- Don’t overdo accessories. While accessories can enhance your look, avoid going overboard. Too many accessories can appear cluttered and distract from the overall elegance of your outfit.
10 Wedding Essentials for Men
Casual Slim Fit Blazer
When a suit seems to formal but you still want to be appropriately dressed, a blazer strikes the perfect balance casual and classy. Lightweight in a slim fit shape, this one features a single-button fastening, notched lapels, and three front pockets. Whether you wear it with a T-shirt and chinos or a shirt and trousers, it’s a timeless option that’s sure to be complimented throughout the day.
Slim Fit Vest
Every closet needs a vest (otherwise known as a waistcoat), especially when it comes to wedding season. Elegant and universally flattering, it’s the easiest way to show you’ve really put in the effort. Available in multiple colours and patterns, this Coofandy classic is a great layering piece that can be worn under a blazer or suit—giving your outfit extra interest and offering additional warmth during the winter.
Formal Layered Vest
Looking to set yourself apart from the sea of blue and grey suits? This layered vest will really get guests talking (for all the right reasons). Smart but striking, it’s an eye-catching interpretation of a wardrobe classic, bringing a modern edge to your formalwear for a wide range of ceremonies.
Muscle Fit Dress Shirt
Whether you want to show off your gains to friends that you haven’t seen in years or simply need a shirt that’s not going to pop open after one too many canapés, this muscle fit shirt is just what you need. Boasting plenty of stretch and a seriously soft handle, it’s a flattering and comfortable choice that can be paired with suits or separates.
Regular Fit Wrinkle Free Dress Shirt
There’s nothing more annoying than ironing a shirt pre-wedding only for it to turn into a crumpled mess by the time you’ve made your way to the church. Thankfully, there’s wrinkle-free shirts like this one that remain in pristine condition even after travel. Cut to a regular fit for ultimate comfort and ease of movement, it’s the perfect partner for a tailored suit and silk tie.
Slim Fit Lightweight Blazer
Looking just as good with a crew neck tee as it does a shirt, this lightweight blazer will help you adhere to the smart-casual dress code. More relaxed than a suit but smart enough for casual affairs, it’s the ideal addition to your wedding wardrobe. Cut to a flattering fit that’ll suit all builds, it features a chest pocket that’s the perfect home for a patterned pocket square.
Slim Fit Suit Vest
If the invitation says ‘dress smart’, a slim-fitting formal vest is always a good idea. Not only does it have a slimming effect for bigger guys, it’s a great way to ensure your outfit stands out amongst the other guests (but not too much, of course). Wear it underneath a suit for an extra layer or with a casual blazer to up the formality.
Paisley Tuxedo Jacket
For weddings with a black-tie dress code, a tuxedo jacket is essential. But instead of playing it safe, why not introduce some subtle pattern? This paisley version has just the right amount of character to remain elegant but fun. Cut to a regular fit shape, it features all the classic hallmarks of a tux: shawl collar, single button, and flap pockets.
Casual Single Button Blazer
Not just for weddings, a blue blazer is a timeless staple that you can turn to whenever you want to look smart. Suitable for a wide range of outfits, this one is perfect for casual weddings and those during the spring/summer months. Dress it up with contrasting trousers and a formal shirt, or keep it relaxed with a crew neck tee, chinos and sneakers.
Casual Slim Fit Blazer
With its notched lapels, single-button closure, and flap pockets, this lightweight blazer is a fail-safe option for any wedding. It can be used to create an uber-elegant outfit or dressed down when you want to be smart but not overly so. Better yet, when you’re not wearing it for the big day, it’s a great option for the office or nights on the town.
Final Word
The significance of dressing appropriately for a wedding cannot be overstated. Your choice of attire reflects not only your personal style but also your respect for the couple's special day.
Our curated selection of wedding attire for men emphasizes the importance of striking the perfect balance between style and appropriateness. From slim-fitting blazers to formal vests, each piece has been carefully chosen to ensure you look and feel your best while adhering to the event's dress code.
Remember, weddings are not just about witnessing love; they're also an opportunity to celebrate in style.
FAQs
Should men always wear a suit to a wedding?
While wearing a suit to a wedding is a classic and safe choice, it's not always a strict requirement. The dress code often depends on the formality specified in the invitation. Ultimately, the key is to choose an outfit that aligns with the formality of the event and the couple's chosen ambiance on their special day.
Is it OK to wear black to a wedding?
Yes, wearing black to a wedding is generally acceptable, especially for evening or formal events. Black suits or tuxedos can exude elegance and sophistication, making them a timeless choice. However, it's essential to consider the formality of the occasion and the specified dress code.
Should a man wear a jacket to a wedding?
Though not always a requirement, wearing a jacket to a wedding is a customary and respectful choice, especially for formal or semi-formal occasions. A well-fitted suit jacket or blazer often aligns with the traditional dress code for many weddings. However, some more casual or beach weddings may permit a jacket-free look. Don’t forget, if it’s hot, you can always take it off throughout the day.
This is a sponsored article. The article should not be considered as advice