Most throw caution to the wind when it comes to rules for their own wedding and choose the attire that they want no matter what is ‘the done thing’. However, for those who like to maintain a bit of proper order when it comes to clothes etiquette, or for those who simply believe you must know the rules before you break them, we’ve come up with a short list of basic suit etiquette for grooms and their groomsmen. Just remember, it’s your wedding and some rules were made to be broken.
Lounge Suits
The standard suit made of trousers and jacket of the same material with a shirt and tie has become the norm for most social occasions and office attire. These are the most relaxed rules in terms of guests wearing whatever they like and have no rules regarding the time of day the wedding is held. However they are also seen as the lowest level of formalwear.
Morning Suits
Usually consisting of a morning coat (with tails), a waistcoat and striped trousers and often accompanied by a top hat. Traditionally these suits are only meant to be worn to weddings that take place in the morning or early afternoon. Men should be mindful of the extra etiquette that comes with wearing a top hat, i.e. never wear a top hat indoors or, traditionally when speaking to a lady. It is also considered rude to let the lining of your hat show when taking it off.
Black Tie
A golden style of suit with a rule that is often broken; black tie tuxedos are evening suits and therefore, rules dictate they should not be worn to an event before 6pm. The suit itself consists of a black dinner jacket, white dress shirt and a black bow tie as well as an evening waistcoat or cummerbund. A black tie wedding requires guests to dress in tuxedos as well as the wedding party so read your invite carefully. If it says black tie optional, you’re off the hook with the tux.
White Tie
White Tie is the most formal level of dress. With its signature white bow tie, and the return of the top hat and tails, it was famously worn by Fred Astaire. Along with the tailcoat and bow tie, a white waistcoat and wing-tipped collared dress shirt is required. Added accessories include gloves, suspenders and even a cane. As the most formal form of dress, it should also not be worn before 6pm, strictly speaking.
- Jenny Darmody
Image Credits: Groom with flower girl and page boy: Suits ‘n’ Boots | Lounge suit groom: nicolacornick.co.uk | Sandy lounge suits: Tango's Dress Hire
Two morning suits: Buckleigh of London | One morning suit with top hat: Ottavio Nuccio | Three groomsmen: caterhire.ie
Black tie groomsmen: quoteko.com| Bride and groom: Two Little Owls | Black tie bridal party: Polka Dot Bride
White tie groom close up: The Wedding Centre | White tie groom indoors: The Pink Bride | White tie bridal party on stairs: The Little White Dress