Best Man Dress for Wedding: Stylish Outfit Ideas

Being the best man at a wedding is a big deal, and dressing right plays a key role in doing this job well. Your best man outfit for a wedding needs to hit the sweet spot between looking sharp and matching the groom’s clothes. If you’re not sure how to dress a guy for a wedding or what men should wear to one, don’t worry. This guide will help you figure out formal wear and make sure you look great on the big day.

From picking the perfect suit to selecting accessories that pop, you’ll learn all you need to know about best man outfits. You’ll get the scoop on fabric options for both comfort and style, ways to match colors, and how to add your own flair while keeping wedding customs in mind. We’ll also look into whether the best man dresses from the other groomsmen and what items a best man brings to a wedding. So, get set to jump into the world of wedding fashion and make sure you look your best as you stand next to your friend on their big day.

Understanding the Role of the Best Man

As the best man, you’re the groom’s go-to guy throughout the wedding planning and on the wedding day. You play a key role to make sure everything goes off without a hitch and the groom feels backed up.

Responsibilities

Your job involves helping pick and organize wedding clothes, overseeing groomsmen, and keeping everyone on time. You’ll be the main contact for questions, hang onto important stuff like rings and the groom’s phone, and sign the marriage license as a witness. During the ceremony, you’ll stand next to the groom and might need to ease any pre-wedding nerves.

Importance of Appearance

Your look matters a lot because you’ll show up in many photos and during the ceremony. You’ll assist the groom in getting ready making sure he looks sharp. As the lead groomsman, you set the bar for how the group should look. Your clothes should match the groom’s style but stand out a bit from other groomsmen. Keep in mind how you look adds to the overall style of the wedding party.

Picking the Right Suit

Choosing the best suit to wear as best man is key. You’ll want your outfit to go well with the groom’s but still catch the eye more than other groomsmen. Start looking for your suit about four months before the big day to avoid any rush and make sure it fits just right.

Thinking About the Wedding Theme

The wedding theme has an impact on your suit pick. For fancy events, think about a classic black tux or a dark blue suit. For beach or laid-back weddings lighter tones like beige or light gray do the trick. Velvet suits in deep colors are spot-on for fall or winter weddings.

Matching with the Groom

Your suit should go well with the groom’s outfit without stealing the show. If the groom puts on a tux, go for a fancy suit. For a more chill look, pick a suit in a color or style that goes with his. Keep in mind, the aim is to back up the groom’s look, not try to outdo it.

Suit Styles for Different Body Types

Pick a suit that looks good on your body type. If you have an hourglass shape, go for a fitted suit that shows off your waist. For a rectangular body, think about a double-breasted suit to add some depth. If you have a triangular build, try suits with strong shoulders to even out your look.

Picking the Right Shirt

When you’re choosing the best man’s outfit for a wedding getting the right shirt is key. Your shirt should go well with your suit and make you look better overall. Keep these important things in mind to make a good choice:

Collar Types

The collar on your shirt sets the mood for your whole outfit. To attend a wedding, pick a spread or semi-spread collar, which pairs well with most tie knots. If you want to look more formal, a cutaway collar can boost elegance. For a timeless look, a point collar never fails.

Fabric Choices

Your shirt’s fabric impacts both comfort and style. Cotton stands out as a common pick because it breathes well and is easy to care for. To get a high-end feel, think about a cotton-silk mix. If you’re going to a summer wedding light fabrics like linen or chambray can help you stay cool. For winter weddings, go for a bit heavier fabric like Oxford cloth.

Fit and Comfort

A shirt that fits well plays a crucial role in making you look your best. Make sure the seams on the shoulders line up with your own shoulders and the cuffs reach your wrists. The shirt should narrow a bit at the waist to create a sleek appearance. Keep in mind, you’ll have this shirt on all day so comfort matters a lot. Pick a fit that gives you room to move without being too baggy.

Accessorizing with Style

Ties and Bow Ties

To make your best man outfit even better, think about adding a cool bow tie or necktie. You’ve got over 500 choices in designs, shades, and materials, so you’ll find one that’s just right. If you want to look fancy, pick a bow tie that goes well with your vest or cummerbund. A lot of couples like ties that can be customized letting you make one-of-a-kind ties in wedding colors that you can wear again and again after the wedding’s done.

Pocket Squares

Elevate your outfit with a pocket square. This tiny accessory can transform your overall appearance. To achieve a timeless look, opt for the Presidential fold, which produces a neat horizontal line in your breast pocket. If you’re in the mood to try something new, play around with the Three Stairs or Rose fold to add some pizzazz. Keep in mind, your pocket square should complement your tie without being an exact match.

Cufflinks and Tie Clips

Round out your outfit with cufflinks and a tie clip. These extras not have a practical use but also give your clothes a sleek look. Many grooms pick customized or etched options as thoughtful gifts to their groomsmen. Cufflinks go well with both fancy and semi-fancy outfits, while a tie clip keeps your tie in place all day long.

Shoe Choices for the Best Man

Your pick of shoes as the best man plays a key role to complete your look and to keep you comfy throughout the wedding day. When you choose shoes, think about how formal the wedding is and what style you like.

Dress Shoes vs. Loafers

When it comes to formal weddings classic Oxford dress shoes in black or dark brown leather are your best bet. They give a polished look that fits right in at fancy events. If you want another option, loafers strike a good balance between style and ease. You can slip them on and off , which makes them great for beach or garden weddings. The dressiest loafers are the tassel or penny styles.

Color Coordination

Match your shoe color to your suit and the wedding’s overall color scheme. Black or dark brown shoes work with most suit colors. For beach weddings, think about going with lighter shades or even white leather loafers to fit the laid-back vibe.

Comfort for Long Events

Make comfort a top priority for the big day. Pick shoes that fit well and have good padding to keep your feet happy. If it’s a beach wedding, go for shoes you can walk in on sand. Keep in mind, you’ll be standing for hours, so it’s key to break in your shoes before the event.

Understanding Wedding Dress Codes

Figuring out wedding dress codes can be confusing, but it’s important to dress right for the event. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the most common dress codes:

Black Tie

This dress code requires a tuxedo with a black bow tie, not a necktie. Choose a peak or shawl lapel jacket that has satin details. Wear it with matching trousers, a white shirt, and black patent leather shoes. Women should pick floor-length gowns or formal jumpsuits.

Formal

People also call this “black tie optional,” which lets you wear dark suits instead of tuxedos. Pick a dark suit with a white shirt and simple tie. Women can put on long dresses or cocktail-length outfits.

Semi-Formal

This laid-back dress code allows suits in brighter colors for daytime events and darker tones for evening gatherings. Ties aren’t required. Women can pick cocktail dresses or stylish separates.

Casual

Don’t let the word “casual” trick you. It still calls for a neat appearance. Men should put on dress pants with a collared shirt, while women can go for a sundress or a nice pants outfit.

Best Man Attire for Different Seasons

Spring and Summer Weddings

When the weather heats up, go for suits made of breathable materials like linen or cotton. Pick suits in light colors such as taupe, sand, or dove gray. These colors work well for outdoor events or weddings earlier in the day. You can spice things up with pastel shirts and bright ties. If you’re heading to a beach wedding, think about wearing a shorts suit. This means knee-length pleated shorts with a classic blazer. Don’t forget to keep it sharp with a white button-up shirt underneath.

Fall and Winter Weddings

When you’re the best man, you need to dress with style and warmth in cold weather. Pick deep rich colors like brown, emerald green, or petrol blue. These colors look classy without seeming too much like office wear. Think about using textured fabrics such as corduroy or velvet, which look great in different lights. To stay warm, a three-piece suit works well. Remember to bring a good wool overcoat for pictures outside – skip casual jackets like parkas.

Tips to Tailor the Perfect Fit

How Long the Jacket Should Be and How the Shoulders Should Fit

To get the right fit, pay attention to how long the jacket is and how the shoulders fit. The jacket should end at your hip or just below it creating a balanced look. Make sure the shoulder seams are at your natural shoulder point, with no pulling or sagging. This part is hard to change later, so it’s key to get it right from the start. When shoulders fit well, they follow your body’s shape making straight lines without creases or dips.

Trouser Break and Waist

To achieve a sleek appearance, focus on how your pants break and fit at the waist. The break is the crease that forms where your trousers meet your shoes. Try to have a slight break, with the hem just touching the top of your shoes making a small fold. Your waist should be snug but comfortable helping to create a smooth silhouette. If you’re not sure, go for a tailored waist, which looks good on most body types and works for different events.

Sleeve Length

Make sure your jacket sleeves stop at the bottom of your thumb. This lets a bit of your shirt cuff show. If you’re wearing French cuff shirts, they should reach the base of your thumb and fit around your wrist. Paying attention to these small details shows you know men’s fashion and care about looking your best.

Color Coordination Strategies

Matching with the Wedding Party

To create a unified look, match your clothes with what the bridesmaids are wearing. If they’re in blush and champagne colors, think about a tie or pocket square in a similar shade. Keep in mind, you don’t need to match just aim for colors that work well together. For a striking contrast, try pairing navy suits with burgundy accessories, or go for olive green with white for a fresh natural vibe.

Avoiding Clashes

The color wheel can help you pick the right colors. Choose contrasting colors instead of complementary ones so your outfit doesn’t look too much. For example, you can wear a mid-blue shirt with a burgundy tie for a classic style. If you want to try brighter colors, use different shades to keep things balanced. A light blue shirt with a burnt orange tie can look good without being too loud.

Making a Statement

Be bold with unexpected color pairings. Black suits with pink touches can make a lasting impression at formal evening gatherings. To create a classy look, think about suits in deep rich shades like emerald green or sapphire blue. Balance these intense colors with white or cream shirts to add brightness. Keep in mind, your outfit should grab attention without clashing with the wedding decorations.

Grooming and Final Touches

Hairstyling

Get a head start on planning your wedding hairstyle. Think about your face shape and the style you like when picking a look. Take some pictures you like to your barber or stylist 6-9 months before your wedding. This gives you time to make changes if you need to. Buy good styling tools and practice your chosen style to get it just right.

Facial Hair Maintenance

If you have facial hair, visit a barber a week before the wedding to trim and shape it. If you want a clean-shaven look, think about getting a professional shave the day before. Remember to keep your skin moisturized and take care of it in the days leading up to the wedding to avoid any skin issues.

Skincare Routine

Start a skincare routine at least 6 months before your big day. Clean, scrub, and moisturize your skin often. Put on sunscreen every day to shield your skin. Don’t try new products right before the wedding to avoid possible skin issues. Drink lots of water and sleep well to look fresh.

Traditional vs. Modern Best Man Attire

Classic Tuxedo Looks

You can’t go wrong with a classic tux to get a timeless best man look. Black tuxes with satin lapels give off an elegant and sophisticated vibe, which fits formal weddings . Match it with a crisp white shirt, self-tie bow tie, and cufflinks to look polished. To add a unique touch, think about wearing a white tux jacket with black pants, which works great for summer or beach weddings.

Contemporary Suit Styles

Today’s best men have more ways to show off their fashion sense. Blue suits navy ones, work well for many types of weddings. Want to make a splash? Try on a green suit. Gray suits can fit many occasions ranging from light silver to dark charcoal shades. For laid-back or seaside weddings beige suits hit the mark. In the colder months, velvet suits in rich colors like burgundy or emerald green add a touch of luxury.

Fabric Choices to Look Good and Feel Comfy

Wool Blends

When it comes to suits, wool stands out as the top choice. It’s adaptable, classy, and polished making it a great pick for your best man outfit. Being a natural material, wool lets air through keeping you comfortable in different weather. To add a fresh touch, you might want to check out wool-silk mixes, which feel nice and have some give to them.

Linen and Cotton

For weddings in the summer or warmer places, linen and cotton are your best bets. Cotton comes from the handy cotton plant and breathes well, which works great for hot-weather suits. Linen is super light and cool perfect for breezy days. Just keep in mind that linen gets wrinkly and needs regular care to keep it looking sharp.

Performance Fabrics

Athletic performance fabrics (APFs) have grown more common in men’s formal wear. These stretchy materials mix synthetic and natural fibers. They have an influence on durability, flexibility, and comfort while looking stylish. APFs work well if you want a slimmer tailored fit that shows off your body shape and keeps you comfy all day.

Personalizing Your Look

Custom Suit Options

You can make a unique garment that matches your style and fits your body with custom suit options. Pick the fabric, cut, and details to look different on your big day. Use a 3D configurator to design your ideal wedding suit. Choose all the details to create a personal garment that fits your size and style.

Unique Accessories

Give your outfit a personal flair with one-of-a-kind accessories. You can enhance your appearance and make yourself noticeable by wearing cufflinks, tie pins, and pocket squares. Think about putting on a tie with a pattern to bring some color to your plain suit. A bolo tie might create a memorable look for outdoor events. Remember to check out jewelry like signet rings or bracelets with engravings to add more of your personality to your outfit.

Monogramming and Embroidery

Add a personal touch to your outfit with custom stitching or embroidered details. Put your and your partner’s initials on the top line and your wedding date below for a one-of-a-kind look. You can add this special touch to your suit, shirt, or other clothes making a unique element for your wedding pictures.

What to Wear for Destination Weddings

Your outfit for a destination wedding should match the place and vibe. Here’s how to dress right for different locations:

Beach Wedding Clothes

When attending a beach wedding, pick materials that are light and allow air to pass through such as linen. Select pale shades to beat the heat. Linen shirts and trousers work well, along with loafers or espadrilles. Some couples might even allow guests to go shoeless. Keep in mind that beach nuptials tend to be more laid-back, so semi-formal clothes often fit the bill.

Mountain Ceremony Outfits

Mountain weddings require layers and warm fabrics. Think about tweed or wool suits in earth-inspired colors like deep greens or browns. To achieve a “mountain chic” style, go for elegant flowing shapes in light materials. Velvet makes a great choice for cooler settings. Remember to bring accessories like fur wraps to stay warm.

City Celebration Looks

When it comes to city weddings, you’ll find classic suits or tuxedos to be the right choice. Keep an eye on the invitation, as the dress code can vary from cocktail to black-tie. Urban settings give you more room to play with colors and styles. For evening events, think about going with darker more formal shades.

Budget-Friendly Best Man Outfit Ideas

Rental vs. Purchase

As you think about what to wear as the best man, look at renting and buying options. Renting might seem cheaper for just one event, but buying could save you money if you go to lots of fancy parties. Some shops sell suits for less than $100, so buying might work for you. Check prices at different stores like Men’s Warehouse, Jos A Banks, and Burlington Coat Factory to get the best price.

Versatile Pieces to Use Later

Invest in clothes you can wear after the wedding too. A khaki or navy overshirt works for many events throughout the year. Raw denim jeans offer a smart-casual choice that goes well with different outfits. An overcoat gives you a sharp look for both formal and casual occasions.

Sales and Discounts

Save money on your best man outfit by shopping during sales. Many stores cut prices a lot during seasonal sales. Look online for discount codes for made-to-measure suit options like Indochino. Check out clearance sections at stores like REI and Gap to find more deals on good men’s clothes.

Best Man Fashion Through the Decades

Vintage-Inspired Looks

You can put your passion for vintage in the spotlight as a best man. Old-school styles often have subdued shades that come from nature such as dusty browns and charcoal grays. Suits made of wool tweed, are common choices because they give off an old-fashioned vibe. To boost the vintage look, think about adding suspenders, bow ties, or cravats. If you want to capture a 1920s feel, you might go for an outfit inspired by Peaky Blinders with a shirt without a collar and a long overcoat, or a Great Gatsby style that uses lighter colors and includes a bow tie.

Modern Interpretations

The current best man fashion lets you mix and match different eras to fit your preferences. You can blend old-school elements with modern styles to create a one-of-a-kind look. For instance, you might team up a contemporary suit with classic accessories such as a pocket watch or hat. Or, you could opt for a traditional cut suit made from a cutting-edge fabric or in a bold color. Just remember, the main goal is to match the overall wedding vibe while showing off your own style.

Navigating Cultural Wedding Traditions

As a best man, you may find yourself at a wedding that combines different cultural traditions. It’s essential to understand and respect these customs. Western weddings have seen a rise in cowboy fashion. You could wear a classic suit with boots to add a Johnny Cash-like flair, or go for a full cowboy look with denim and a hat. In Eastern traditions bright colors and detailed designs often take the spotlight. For a mixed-culture wedding, you can blend elements from both backgrounds. Think about wearing a traditional outfit with modern accessories or the other way around. Keep in mind, the goal is to honor the couple’s background while feeling at ease and sure of yourself in what you’re wearing.

Accessories That Make a Difference

Statement Watches

You can make your best man outfit fancier by wearing a cool watch. It’s more than just something to tell time; it’s a special item you’ll wear that will always make you think of this big day. Pick a watch that goes well with your suit and other stuff you’re wearing, and don’t mix different types of metal. The bride groom, or even the other guys in the wedding party might give you this watch as a nice present.

Boutonnières and Lapel Pins

To give your outfit a fresh spin, think about replacing traditional boutonnieres with trendy lapel pins. Designs in rose gold, emerald green, or even those inspired by steampunk can add a special touch to your look. These pins are tougher than flowers and don’t get squashed when people hug you. Plus, you can wear them again after the wedding’s over. If you’re more into classic styles, you might like a flat lapel pin instead of a boutonniere with a stem.

Socks and Suspenders

Boost your appearance with vibrant socks that align with the wedding colors or express your style. Suspenders offer another adaptable accessory option that suits different wedding themes ranging from traditional to bohemian. They serve a practical purpose and bring an air of elegance to your outfit. Think about giving your groomsmen matching suspenders or ties to create a unified look.

Dressing for Your Body Type

Tall and Slim

You can make yourself look more proportionate by putting on layers of close-fitting clothes and picking thicker materials like denim or tweed. Skip vertical stripes and go for smaller patterns to add flair without drawing attention to your height. Use different colors and belts to split up your outfit. Pick slim or fitted pants, not loose or super tight ones, and make sure they reach your ankles.

Short and Stocky

Put on clothes that hug your body steering clear of extra material. Pick pants with a slight taper and a slim-straight cut. Go for mid or high-rise pants that rest on your natural waistline. Keep to solid colors and small patterns. Getting the right fit is key; look for shirts that suit your shoulders, neck, and chest, and pants that match your seat, crotch, and thighs.

Athletic Build

To achieve an athletic look, pick clothes that fit slim or tailored to create a streamlined shape. Go for tops with up-and-down stripes or patterns to give the impression of a wider upper body. Put on darker shades up top and lighter ones down below to even out your appearance. Pick pants with some give such as chinos or slim jeans, to make a neat smooth line.

Green and Earth-Friendly Choices

Responsible Fabric Selections

You can have a good effect by selecting sustainable materials for your best man outfit. Go for organic cotton, linen, or bamboo, which leave a smaller mark on the planet than man-made fabrics. These natural materials let your skin breathe and keep you comfy just right for long wedding celebrations.

Renting vs. Buying

Think about renting your outfit instead of buying a new one. This choice cuts down on waste and lets you try out more styles. If you want to buy, check out secondhand options at thrift stores or online markets. This way of shopping helps your wallet and the planet.

Upcycled Accessories

Give your look a special twist with upcycled accessories. Pick bags or jewelry made from reused materials. These items stand out and help to cut down on waste in the fashion world.

FAQs

What should the best man wear to a wedding?

The best man’s outfit should be a bit different from the groom’s to stand out. Here’s how:

If the groom picks a white dinner jacket, the best man should go for black. Also, if the groom wears a double-breasted coat, a single-breasted one works well for the best man. On top of that, if the groom has a red rose on his lapel, the best man should choose a white one.

How can one be the best-dressed man at a wedding?
To make a splash as the sharpest-looking guy at a wedding, think about putting on a timeless black or midnight blue tux. If these shades don’t work, go for another dark color. Team this up with shiny dress shoes, like black patent leather or velvet oxfords, and a white dress shirt with a collar a tuxedo shirt.

What should a 50-year-old man wear to a wedding?

For a fancy wedding, a 50-year-old guy should put on a dark suit or tux. Good colors to pick are black, charcoal gray, or navy blue. A bow tie looks sharp, but you don’t have to wear one. It’s up to you whether you go with a bow tie or a regular necktie.

What should a male guest wear to a wedding?
A male guest at a wedding doesn’t need to wear a tuxedo if he can’t. He can put on a dark suit and tie instead, which works well for a black-tie-optional event. If he wants something more casual, he might choose a black satin necktie or a black and white patterned bow tie.