As the best man at a wedding, you hold an important role—both in the ceremony and in the style stakes. The groom may be the star, but as the best man, you are part of the spotlight, and what you wear is essential in complementing the overall wedding theme. In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal outfits for best men at different types of weddings, how to match the wedding style, and tips for staying sharp throughout the event.
Understanding the Wedding Theme
Before choosing your attire, it’s crucial to understand the theme of the wedding. Every wedding has its own unique style, whether it’s formal, semi-formal, or casual, and your outfit should match this. Here are the most common wedding themes and what you should wear as the best man.
Formal Weddings: Go Classic and Elegant
A formal wedding calls for classic attire, which often means a tuxedo. Tuxedos are the gold standard for formal occasions and give you a timeless, elegant look.
The Tuxedo: A traditional black tuxedo with a satin lapel is the ideal option. Pair it with a crisp white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and polished black dress shoes. Remember, a black tuxedo is never out of place in a formal wedding.
Accessories: Consider wearing a pocket square, cufflinks, and a cummerbund or waistcoat to complete the look. Keep accessories subtle and sophisticated—avoid anything too flashy that might steal attention from the groom.
Shoes: Patent leather shoes are the preferred choice for formal weddings. Make sure they are well-shined and complement the tuxedo.
Pro Tip: Check with the groom if there’s a specific dress code or matching color theme, such as a colored tie or pocket square, so your attire aligns with the wedding party.
Semi-Formal Weddings: Classic with a Twist
For a semi-formal wedding, you have a bit more flexibility with your outfit, but you should still aim for a polished look. A suit is typically more appropriate than a tuxedo for these types of weddings.
The Suit: Opt for a well-tailored suit in darker shades like navy, charcoal, or gray. A two- or three-piece suit works well for semi-formal events. Pair it with a white or light-colored dress shirt and a tie that complements the wedding’s color scheme.
Ties or Bow Ties: You can choose between a traditional necktie or a bow tie, depending on the wedding’s vibe. Avoid overly bold patterns, but feel free to add a bit of personality with subtle colors or textures.
Shoes: Leather Oxford shoes in black or brown are excellent choices. Ensure your shoes are clean and polished to keep your overall look sharp.
Pro Tip: If the wedding has a specific color palette (such as pastel ties for the wedding party), make sure your outfit incorporates those tones in a subtle way.
Casual or Beach Weddings: Relaxed but Refined
If the wedding is casual, like a beach or garden setting, your outfit can be more relaxed but should still be stylish and well-put-together.
The Suit: In casual settings, lighter fabrics like linen or cotton are great choices. Consider a light gray, tan, or beige suit to match the laid-back atmosphere. You might even forgo the jacket and wear a vest with tailored trousers for a more relaxed vibe.
Shirt and Tie: A light-colored button-down shirt, potentially without a tie, can look sharp and casual. If you decide to wear a tie, opt for something lighter and less formal, such as a knit or cotton tie.
Shoes: For a beach wedding, loafers or slip-on shoes can be both comfortable and appropriate. If it’s a garden wedding, stick to classic leather shoes in brown or tan.
Pro Tip: Avoid looking too casual by making sure your outfit is tailored and fits well. Even in a relaxed setting, a well-fitted ensemble shows attention to detail.
How to Match the Groom
One key rule for a best man is to avoid outshining the groom but still complement his look. Here’s how to match the groom’s style without stealing the spotlight:
Coordinate but Don’t Match Exactly: If the groom is wearing a black tuxedo, you should wear a tuxedo, too—but consider opting for a different style or slightly different shade to differentiate your look.
Match Accessories: Make sure your accessories, like your tie or pocket square, match the color scheme of the wedding party. It’s best to consult the groom on this to ensure you’re in sync.
Dress Code: Always follow the wedding’s dress code. If it’s black-tie optional, lean towards a formal suit or tuxedo rather than dressing down.
Fabrics and Fit: The Devil Is in the Details
Choose the Right Fabrics
Your choice of fabric can make a significant difference in how comfortable and stylish you feel throughout the event. Consider the season and venue when picking fabrics:
Summer Weddings: For summer weddings, lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, or tropical wool will keep you cool while still looking sharp.
Winter Weddings: For winter weddings, opt for heavier fabrics like wool or tweed to keep warm and maintain a polished look.
Ensure the Perfect Fit
Fit is everything when it comes to a best man’s outfit. Whether you’re wearing a tuxedo or a suit, it should be tailored to your body.
Jacket Fit: Ensure your jacket fits comfortably in the shoulders, with sleeves ending just above your wrists to show a bit of your shirt cuff.
Trousers: Your trousers should fit well around the waist, and the length should be just right—no bunching around your shoes.
Shirt: A well-fitted dress shirt that’s not too tight or too loose is essential. It should sit neatly at the neck and shoulders.
Pro Tip: Schedule a fitting with a tailor well in advance of the wedding to avoid last-minute adjustments.
Accessorizing: Keep It Simple but Stylish
Accessories can enhance your outfit, but as the best man, you should keep things elegant and understated. Here’s a list of must-have accessories for the big day:
Cufflinks: Cufflinks add a touch of class to your outfit, especially if you’re wearing a tuxedo. Choose simple designs in silver or gold.
Pocket Square: A pocket square is an easy way to add some personality to your outfit. If the wedding has a specific color theme, choose a pocket square that matches it.
Belt or Suspenders: Depending on the outfit, you can either wear a belt or suspenders to keep your trousers in place. If you’re going for a classic look, suspenders are a timeless option.
Watch: A simple, elegant watch is a great way to complete your outfit. Avoid overly flashy or digital watches.
Pro Tip: Avoid wearing too many accessories. The key is to look refined without drawing attention away from the main event.
Grooming and Presentation: Look Your Best
Your outfit isn’t the only thing that matters—your grooming and overall presentation are just as important. Here are a few grooming tips to ensure you look sharp:
Hair: Get a fresh haircut a few days before the wedding, ensuring your hair looks neat but not too freshly trimmed.
Facial Hair: Whether you’re clean-shaven or have a beard, make sure your facial hair is well-groomed.
Skincare: On the day of the wedding, ensure your skin looks fresh. A light moisturizer can help you avoid looking dry or oily.
Conclusion: The Best Man’s Role in Style
As the best man, you play an important role not just in supporting the groom but also in contributing to the wedding’s style. From choosing the right suit or tuxedo to ensuring the perfect fit and accessories, your outfit should complement the overall theme while showcasing your personal flair. By following this guide, you’ll be ready to look your best and fulfill your role with confidence and style on the big day.
Pro Tip: Always double-check with the groom about the dress code and any special requirements, and give yourself plenty of time to prepare your outfit. That way, you’ll ensure a smooth, stylish appearance as the best man.
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