When it comes to wedding attire, the groom’s suit plays an important role in complementing the bride’s dress and setting the tone for the big day. While the suit itself is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the groom’s look, accessories are what truly elevate the ensemble, making it feel personal, stylish, and tailored to the groom’s personality. From ties and cufflinks to shoes and pocket squares, the right accessories can completely transform a groom’s suit and ensure he looks his best on his wedding day.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to style a groom’s suit with the right accessories to create a polished, memorable, and unique look for the big day.
1. Start with the Suit: Choose the Right Fit
Before diving into accessories, it’s crucial to start with the foundation: the suit itself. A well-fitted suit is the key to looking sharp, and it will ensure that all the accessories complement the overall look.
- Tailoring is Key: Make sure the suit fits properly in the shoulders, chest, waist, and sleeves. An ill-fitting suit can undermine the accessories and make the groom appear less polished. Consider having the suit tailored to achieve a perfect fit.
- Choose the Right Style: Decide whether a classic tuxedo, a modern slim-fit suit, or a relaxed wedding suit is best suited for the wedding theme. The type of suit you choose will influence the type of accessories you select.
2. Ties and Bowties: Make a Statement
Ties and bowties are the most important accessories to complete a groom’s suit. They not only add color and style but also give the groom the opportunity to reflect his personality. Whether you opt for a traditional tie, a bowtie, or something more unique, here are some options to consider:
- Classic Ties: A traditional necktie is always a solid choice. Opt for a solid color, a subtle pattern, or a striped design, depending on the formality and style of the wedding. Silk ties in rich colors like navy, burgundy, or charcoal gray are timeless choices.
- Bowties: A bowtie exudes elegance and sophistication, perfect for more formal weddings or grooms who want a touch of vintage flair. Consider a satin or velvet bowtie for a more refined, luxurious look.
- The Groom’s Personality: While solid colors are classic, patterned ties or bowties can add personality and flair. If the wedding has a specific color theme, you can match the tie or bowtie to the wedding palette. For more adventurous grooms, floral, paisley, or polka dot patterns can be fun.
- Tie Bar: A tie bar is a small, but stylish accessory that not only keeps the tie in place but adds a touch of sophistication. Choose a sleek, metallic tie bar in silver, gold, or rose gold for a polished look.
3. Cufflinks: Add a Touch of Elegance
Cufflinks are a subtle yet impactful accessory for a groom’s suit. They elevate a classic French cuff shirt, adding a sophisticated touch to the overall outfit. Cufflinks come in many styles, from classic designs to more unique, personal options.
- Classic Cufflinks: For a timeless look, opt for simple metallic cufflinks in silver, gold, or black. A simple round or square design can complement almost any suit.
- Personalized Cufflinks: Personalized cufflinks with initials, wedding date, or a meaningful symbol are a great way to add a personal touch to the groom’s look. They make for excellent keepsakes after the wedding.
- Thematic Cufflinks: If the wedding has a particular theme (e.g., rustic, vintage, or nautical), themed cufflinks can tie the look together. For example, engraved cufflinks with the couple’s initials or symbols of love like hearts, anchors, or stars can be playful and meaningful.
4. Pocket Square: A Stylish Accent
The pocket square is one of the easiest ways to add style and personality to a groom’s suit. A well-chosen pocket square can elevate the entire look without being too bold. Here’s how to style it:
- Classic Fold: A simple, classic fold with a white or ivory pocket square works well for traditional weddings and adds a touch of refinement. This is a safe, sophisticated option that complements almost any suit.
- Pop of Color or Pattern: For a modern twist, a pocket square in a bold color or pattern can add personality to the groom’s look. You can match it to the bride’s bouquet, bridesmaids’ dresses, or wedding colors for a cohesive look.
- Matching Pocket Square and Tie: If you want a more coordinated appearance, select a pocket square that matches the tie or bowtie. Be mindful not to go overboard with matching patterns, though—balance is key. A solid-colored pocket square can pair beautifully with a patterned tie.
5. Shoes: Completing the Look
Shoes are another crucial component of the groom’s outfit. They should be comfortable for long hours of standing and dancing while still providing a polished finish to the suit. Consider these options:
- Classic Oxfords: Black or brown leather oxfords are the classic choice for a formal look. For a more traditional wedding, black leather is the safest bet, while brown or tan works well for more casual or rustic weddings.
- Loafers: If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, a sleek pair of loafers can be an excellent choice. They offer comfort without sacrificing style and are ideal for destination weddings or casual venues.
- Monk Straps: For a modern, fashionable look, monk straps are a great alternative to classic oxfords. They add a unique element to the groom’s outfit with their buckle detail.
- Polish and Shine: Regardless of the type of shoe, it’s important to ensure they’re polished and clean. Well-maintained shoes show attention to detail and help elevate the entire look.
6. Watches: Function and Fashion
A wristwatch is a practical and stylish accessory that can be both functional and fashionable on your wedding day. Watches can be a great way to reflect the groom’s taste, with options ranging from minimalist to intricate designs.
- Classic Leather Strap Watch: A simple leather strap watch with a sleek face is ideal for a timeless and sophisticated look.
- Metallic Watches: A metal bracelet watch with a silver or gold finish can add a modern touch to a classic suit. This works especially well if the groom is wearing other metallic accessories, such as cufflinks or a tie bar.
- Engraved Watches: For an extra personal touch, consider an engraved watch with the wedding date or initials. It’s a thoughtful gift that will serve as a lasting reminder of the day.
7. Belts and Suspenders: Function with Style
While suspenders and belts are more practical than decorative, they can still add to the overall style of the groom’s outfit. Choose between the two based on comfort and aesthetic preferences:
- Belts: If you opt for a belt, make sure it matches the color and material of your shoes, especially if you’re wearing leather shoes. A slim leather belt in black or brown can complement the groom’s look perfectly.
- Suspenders: Suspenders can give the groom a dapper, vintage vibe. If you want a more relaxed and old-school look, suspenders are a great accessory to complete the ensemble.
8. The Final Touch: Boutonnière
The boutonnière is a small, but meaningful, floral accessory that should be pinned on the groom’s lapel. Typically featuring a small flower that coordinates with the bride’s bouquet, it adds a personal and romantic touch to the overall wedding outfit.
- Classic Flowers: Traditional boutonnières often feature roses, peonies, or orchids. For a more unique touch, you can incorporate herbs or greenery like eucalyptus, lavender, or rosemary for a fresh, natural look.
- Coordinate with Bridesmaids’ Bouquets: The boutonnière should complement, but not match, the bride’s bouquet or bridesmaids’ flowers. The goal is to create harmony without overwhelming the look.
Conclusion: Perfectly Styled for the Big Day
When it comes to wedding attire, accessories are more than just finishing touches—they are essential in ensuring that the groom looks his absolute best on his big day. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of a bowtie, the charm of personalized cufflinks, or the sophistication of a well-chosen pocket square, accessories help the groom stand out and feel confident. By thoughtfully selecting the right accessories to complement the suit, the groom can achieve a balanced, stylish, and polished wedding day look that is perfectly tailored to his personality and wedding theme.
Remember, every detail counts, and when done right, these accessories can turn an already sharp suit into a showstopper, leaving a lasting impression on everyone at the celebration.