When it comes to wedding styling, many people focus on the bride and bridesmaids’ outfits, but that doesn’t mean the groom and groomsmen can’t have fun with their suits too. After all, the way your wedding party is styled sets the tone for the day and plays a key role in how polished and put-together everything looks. But do groomsmen need matching suits, or is there room for creativity?
From perfectly matched ensembles to coordinated variations, there are plenty of stylish ways to help your groomsmen look their best while working with your chosen aesthetic for the big day.
1. Classic Matching Suits
One of the simplest ways to create a cohesive party is to dress all the groomsmen in identical wedding suits. This approach delivers a polished, traditional aesthetic that works particularly well for formal and black-tie weddings. A single colour, fabric, and cut ensure a uniform look that complements the overall theme without drawing attention away from the groom.
However, a perfectly matched ensemble does not mean sacrificing individuality. Accessories like ties, pocket squares, and boutonnieres can add subtle personal touches while keeping the overall appearance refined. Different body types should also be considered, ensuring that the chosen suit style flatters everyone.
Many couples debate, does the groom’s suit need to match the groomsmen? While a fully matched look is timeless, slight variations can help the groom stand out while still maintaining a cohesive group style. This could be as simple as a different waistcoat or a contrasting tie.
2. Complementary Colours
For couples who want coordination without identical outfits, opting for complementary colours is a smart choice. This technique allows for slight variations in shade while keeping the overall look harmonious. For example, a navy suit for the groom with lighter blue suits for the groomsmen achieves a cohesive yet distinguished style.
Using complementary colours can also help suit different skin tones and personal styles. Charcoal grey with mid-grey, deep green with olive, or even a mix of muted earth tones can create a stylish and intentional aesthetic. This works particularly well for weddings with a relaxed or rustic theme, allowing the groom to stand out subtly.
How to match groomsmen suits effectively when using different colours? The key is consistency in fabric and tailoring. Keeping the same fit and fabric type across all suits ensures that the group looks coordinated rather than mismatched.
3. Mixing Patterns and Textures
Suits do not have to be plain to be stylish. Mixing different patterns and textures can add depth to the overall look while still maintaining a coordinated appearance. Tweed and check patterns are great for vintage or countryside weddings, while subtle pinstripes or micro-patterns work well in formal settings.
A groom might opt for a subtly patterned suit while the groomsmen wear solid colours in a matching tone. This keeps the groom as the focal point while maintaining a visually interesting group aesthetic. Different textures like a wool suit for the groom and a linen blend for a summer wedding party can add depth without looking uncoordinated.
4. Coordinated Accessories for Subtle Unity
Accessories can be a great way to create unity even if the suits are different. Matching ties, pocket squares, socks, or even cufflinks can pull the whole look together without being overly rigid.
A groom in a navy suit with groomsmen in grey, all wearing the same patterned tie, for instance, can create a seamless and coordinated look. Footwear can also be a fun way to tie things together. Having all groomsmen in the same colour and style of shoes makes a sense of cohesion even if the suits themselves vary.
5. Stand-out Groom
While matching suits are popular, some grooms prefer a look that sets them apart. A contrasting jacket or an entirely different suit can make the groom stand out while still maintaining harmony with the groomsmen’s attire.
As an example, a groom in a classic black tuxedo with groomsmen in dark grey suits strikes the right balance between distinction and coordination.
One way to achieve this is through subtle variations in lapel style, button details, or even fabric choice. A velvet blazer for the groom with wool suits for the groomsmen can add texture while keeping the overall aesthetic cohesive.
6. Different Shades of the Same Colour
If complete uniformity feels too rigid but too much variation feels chaotic, different shades of the same colour can be an elegant solution. This method offers a natural gradient effect that looks intentional and stylish.
Consider a groom in a deep forest green suit with groomsmen in lighter sage tones creating a refined yet visually engaging aesthetic. Similarly, varying shades of grey, blue, or even tan can work well in different seasons and settings.
7. Waistcoats and Separates for a Relaxed Vibe
For less formal weddings, waistcoats and separates can be an excellent way to coordinate without the need for identical suits. A groom in a full three-piece suit with groomsmen in matching trousers and waistcoats, but without jackets keeps the look consistent while maintaining a slightly laid-back feel.
You could also opt for chinos or other classy but casual choices to make this work, a perfect touch for summer weddings, outdoor ceremonies, and rustic venues. It allows for a bit of formality while still embracing a more comfortable and relaxed aesthetic. The groom can even stand out by choosing a patterned or textured waistcoat that subtly sets him apart.
Separates also offer more flexibility for different body shapes, as different cuts can be mixed and matched to ensure everyone feels their best while still looking part of a cohesive group.
8. Mismatched but Coordinated
For couples who prefer a contemporary take, allowing each groomsman to wear a different suit within a defined colour palette can be a stylish alternative. This mismatched yet coordinated angle creates a unique and modern feel while still ensuring a unified look.
To keep it intentional rather than random, establish a clear colour scheme and level of formality. For example, all groomsmen could wear varying shades of blue but in different styles, or they could all opt for different neutral tones while keeping accessories matching for an easy way to tie things together.
No matter which option you choose, the key is to strike the right balance between coordination and individuality. Groomsmen’s suits should complement the groom’s outfit, and help him stand out instead of overshadowing him – be it through colour touches, different shades, or any other method. Playing with the suits like this adds a touch of fun and whimsy to a beautiful day, making it all the more memorable.
