The bride’s dress is, rightly, what receives the most attention on the wedding day. However, the groom’s suit choice holds equal significance. It’s not just about looking smart and matching the vibe of the bride – the groom should feel confident and handsome on one of the most special days in his life. So, this guide focuses on them and the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect suit.
Theme of the wedding
First and foremost, the dress code for anyone involved in the wedding will depend on the overall theme – is it a semiformal wedding where you want people to feel comfortable, or a black-tie event that demands the sophistication of a tuxedo? This is a decision the bride and groom should make early in their wedding planning process, which can guide both of their attire choices.
For instance, a traditional wedding typically won’t stray too far away from a black or dark-coloured suit in a classic design, while a laid-back beach wedding will be more open to a cream or white suit with no tie. For a country wedding, you may want a rustic suit, perhaps a textured tweed, in dark brown or burgundy colours. The theme can be anything the happy pair wishes, but matching it perfectly will be key.
Weather considerations
Another important factor in choosing the right suit is the season in which you decide to get married. While the weather can be unpredictable, you simply do not want to go for something that will likely be impractical and uncomfortable. For example, if you are getting married in the midst of summer or in a country with hot climate, a classic wool or a velvet suit may be too hot and heavy. Instead, you may opt for a linen suit that looks smart but feels airy and breathable. Beyond the weather conditions, the seasons can also indicate the overall colour palette: winter weddings usually feature darker, deeper shades, whereas spring and summer welcome brighter hues.
The ideal fit and feel
After considering those main factors, you should have narrowed down what kind of suit you are looking for. However, the final decision will be completely down to finding something that fits and feels just right.
The fit of the suit is of paramount importance – ideally, it should be tailored to your measurements. No matter how expensive, an ill-fitting suit will look bad, so pay attention to key areas like how the jacket sits on your shoulders, where the sleeves end, how low on your ankles the trousers sit, and so on. If you are looking for a budget option, you may get an off-the-rack suit and get it altered slightly for the ideal fit.
Lastly, pick a fabric and colour that complements you. For example, if you decided to go for a cream linen suit, there are many different shades of cream available, ranging from warm-tone shades with yellowish undertones to cool-tone creams with grey undertones. Choose something that suits your skin tone and the accessories you want to pair the suit with, like the shoes and tie.
Making the final decision
Before you make the final decision, the last tip is to get second opinions from friends and family. These are the people in your life who know you and your style, so they will be able to immediately spot something that suits you and your personality. Ultimately, the perfect suit should empower you and make you feel like a million bucks!
