THE WELL-SUITED GROOM

or black is a less formal option. For a more formal look, consider a tuxedo with a single- or doublebreasted jacket, a white or ivory pointed-collar shirt, a vest and either a bow tie or a four-in-hand tie. A very formal wedding, called “white tie,” calls for the traditional black tuxedo with tails, a vest, a white winged-collar shirt, and a bow tie.

Shopping Tips

When visiting the formalwear shop, have a firm idea of the women’s wedding attire and bring fabric or color swatches from the bridesmaids’ gowns. Pictures of preferred formalwear styles would also be helpful in the decision-making process.

Reserve rentals at least three months in advance of the wedding (although the earlier, the better, especially during the busy season). Final measurements should be taken about three weeks before the ceremony; however, be sure to come back a few days before the wedding for last-minute alterations. Out-of-town groomsmen can get measured at any formalwear store or local tailors near them and send their measurements to the groom or to your formalwear store.Someone should be designated to return all formalwear to the store on time to avoid late fees, which can get quite expensive adding up the per day, per outfit costs.

The Perfect Fit

There are a few key points to keep in mind regarding fit when ordering formalwear. Shirts should fit well around the neck. The bottom hem of the pants should just touch the top of the shoes. Jackets should be fitted, with some room at the waist. Sleeves should end at the wrist bone with the same number of shirt buttons showing. Vents on the side of the jacket should lie smoothly and follow the lines of the body. The collar should hug the neck comfortably, and the lapels shouldn’t buckle.

Grooming The Groom

An important detail that is sometimes overlooked is the groom’s hair. Men are generally more casual about haircuts than women, but they should ideally get their hair trimmed two weeks before the wedding to add the finishing touch to their wedding finery. Pass this helpful tip on to the groomsmen as well! If you plan to take photos of the bride’s hand and the groom’s hand with the new rings, it would be a great idea for the groom to get a manicure just before the wedding.

Current Trends In Formalwear

Black is classic. But navy blue, grey, or tan suits are handsome and on-trend.

Vests & ties. Vests and dressy standard neckties (called four-in-hand ties or Windsor knotted ties) are popular, but bow ties are also making a comeback. Both are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Lapels & pleats. Notched lapels on coats are the most common, though peak lapels and shawl collars are increasing in popularity. Current fashion trends opt for flat fronts on pants and smooth fronts on shirts — no pleats.

Be stylish, have fun. Groomsmen accessories that complement the groom instead of matching the bridesmaids’ dresses are another alternative. Adding colored socks or suspenders is a fun way to tie in the wedding colors and show some personality.