Get the lowdown on wedding attire FAQs and dress codes for yourself and guests.
Expert advice on common groom questions provided by Tatyana, the founder of Artefact London.
Groom’s Three-Piece Suit
A waistcoat adds style. Opt for a waistcoat to elevate your look.
Beach Wedding Wool Suit
Choose a lightweight wool suit for beach weddings. Stick to light shades.
Linen Suit for the Big Day
Linen fabrics are elegant but wrinkle easily. Try a linen jacket for beach nuptials.
Lapel Width Tips
Adjust lapel width based on your shoulders for a polished appearance.
Double-Breasted Elegance
Double-breasted jackets are back in fashion. Opt for custom tailoring for the perfect fit.
Investing in Your Suit
Splurge on your wedding suit as it can be worn for other special occasions too.
Have more questions? Feel free to reach out!
Written by Tatyana Kozhevnikova
Content & images copyright of Artefact London
February 2017
Guidelines for modern wedding attire and dress code expectations for guests.
Learn what to wear and what to avoid at weddings with this ultimate style guide.
Avoid White Outfits
Avoid wearing white to allow the bride to shine on her special day.
White attire is traditionally reserved for the bride. Choose colorful patterns if unsure.
It is considered a fashion faux pas to wear white to a wedding because it can take attention away from the bride, who should be the focus of the day. Opt for colors such as pastels, jewel tones, or floral prints to show respect for the bride and groom. Remember, it’s their special day, so let them stand out in white while you complement their colors in your outfit choice.
Avoid Provocative Attire
Keep your outfit classy and formal at weddings to honor the couple’s love.
Dress modestly to complement the celebration of love and unity.
Remember that weddings are a special occasion where respect and decorum are key. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or attention-grabbing to ensure the focus remains on the couple and their special day. Opt for elegant and tasteful attire that reflects the significance of the event.
Choosing the right outfit shows your respect for the couple and the sanctity of the occasion. By dressing modestly, you contribute to the overall atmosphere of love and unity that the couple has worked hard to create for their wedding day.
Avoid Matching with Bridal Party
Avoid wearing the same color or style of outfit as the bridal party members to prevent any confusion on the wedding day.
Instead, opt for complementary colors or styles that will help you stand out as a special guest among the crowd. Consider the wedding theme and venue when choosing your outfit to ensure you look stylish and appropriate for the occasion.
Attire Tip: No Flip-Flops
Even for casual weddings, skip flip-flops as they are too informal for the occasion.
While flip-flops are comfortable, they are not suitable for formal events like weddings.
Avoid Loud Jewelry
Avoid wearing noisy jewelry that may distract from the wedding vows being exchanged.
Opt for subtle accessories that won’t draw attention away from the couple.
Avoid Tall Headpieces
Refrain from wearing tall hats or headpieces that could block other guests’ view.
Opt for smaller headpieces to avoid obstructing guests and photographers.
Avoid Tiaras
Avoid wearing tiaras to weddings to allow the bride to shine on her special day.
Avoid competing with the bride’s attire by opting for other accessories.
Avoid Ultra-Casual Attire
Even for casual weddings, ensure your outfit shows respect for the event.
Casual attire is fine, just make sure it’s appropriate and presentable for the occasion.
Avoid Sparkling Outfits
Avoid wearing sparkly clothing that may distract from the bride’s dress.
If the bride’s dress is simple, tone down your outfit to ensure the focus remains on her.
Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns instead of flashy sequins or embellishments.
Remember, it’s her special day and you want to support her by not stealing the spotlight.
Avoid Neon Colors
Save neon colors for other occasions and opt for softer tones at weddings.
Choose pastel colors that blend well with the wedding setting and atmosphere.
Soft pastel colors like blush pink, mint green, lavender, and baby blue are perfect for creating a romantic and elegant atmosphere at a wedding. These colors are subtle and soothing, adding a touch of sophistication to the event.
Neon colors can be harsh and overpowering, disrupting the overall mood and theme of the wedding. Opting for softer tones will create a more cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic for the big day.
Remember, the goal is to enhance the wedding setting and create a beautiful backdrop for the celebration. So, when it comes to color choices, think soft and subtle for a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
Avoid Skinny Heels
Avoid wearing skinny heels to outdoor weddings to prevent sinking into grass or sand.
Opt for wedges or flats for stability and comfort while celebrating outdoors.
Consider wearing block heels or platforms as an alternative to skinny heels for outdoor events.
Choose shoes with a sturdy sole to provide better traction on uneven surfaces.
If you still prefer skinny heels, consider heel protectors to prevent sinking and damage to your shoes.
Avoid All Black
Avoid wearing all black to weddings to avoid associations with somber events.
If wearing black, add colorful accents to keep the mood celebratory and joyful.
Avoid Revealing Undergarments
Maintain a respectful appearance by ensuring undergarments stay hidden at weddings.
If visible, adjust your outfit to maintain a comfortable and appropriate look.
Avoid Itchy Fabrics
Skip itchy fabrics to fully enjoy the wedding festivities without distractions.
Opt for comfortable fabrics like silk, cotton, or cashmere for a pleasant experience.
Tight pants can be uncomfortable when sitting for a long time, so choose loose-fitting pants. Skip strong perfumes to prevent allergic reactions in other guests. Don’t wear something that outshines the bride’s dress. Consider the wedding type, venue, and couple when choosing your outfit.