Have you ever stood in front of a mirror, tie half-knotted, wondering how your wedding party will look in photos ten years from now? If you’re the best man, groom, or one of the groomsmen trying to balance budget, fit, and style—this guide is for you. Choosing the right groomsmen suits doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few smart decisions on color, fit, and accessories, your crew will look cohesive, feel comfortable, and elevate the whole wedding aesthetic.
Why the right groomsmen suits matter
Groomsmen suits do more than clothe your wedding party—they create a visual story. The right suit ties into venue, season, and theme, and ensures photos look polished without overshadowing the groom. A well-chosen suit enhances confidence, keeps everyone comfortable, and avoids the awkward “we look like a mismatched thrift store” vibe.
How to choose groomsmen suits
Consider the wedding style and color palette
Start with the setting. Beach and garden weddings lean toward lighter fabrics and colors—think linen blends and tan or light gray suits. Formal black-tie affairs call for tuxedos or midnight navy. For a modern city affair, charcoal or deep navy are fail-safe choices. Coordinating with bridesmaid dresses and venue tones helps create a cohesive visual story in photos.
Fit: slim, tailored, or classic?
Fit makes the outfit. Aim for a tailored silhouette that flatters different body types: a slim-but-not-skinny jacket, structured shoulders, and a tapered trouser. Tailoring can transform an off-the-rack suit—if budget allows, factor in a single tailoring appointment for each groomsman. If you need guidance on styles, check our overview of wedding suit styles for different body types in the internal guide.
Fabric and season
Choose fabric for comfort: lightweight wool or blends for year-round wear, linen and cotton for hot-weather ceremonies, and heavier wool or textured weaves for winter. Fabrics also affect how the suit photographs—avoid overly shiny synthetics for a timeless look.
Rent vs buy: what’s best for your group?
Renting is budget-friendly and convenient for one-off events; buying gives longevity and better fit options. If many groomsmen will reuse the suit, buying can be smarter. For mixed budgets, consider letting groomsmen buy the core pieces (jacket and trousers) and provide accessories—tie, pocket square, boutonnière—so everyone coordinates. If you want a deeper comparison, read our rent vs buy guide for groomsmen suits.
Popular groomsmen suit styles and outfit combinations
Below are tried-and-true combinations that photograph well and suit different wedding vibes.
- Classic navy suit + brown leather shoes: Timeless and versatile; works for most venues. Pair with a cream pocket square and burgundy tie for fall weddings.
- Charcoal suit + black oxford shoes: Formal and slimming—perfect for evening ceremonies or urban settings.
- Light gray suit + white shirt: Fresh for spring and summer, especially with pastel ties or patterned pocket squares.
- Tan or khaki suit + loafers (no socks optional): Casual beach or backyard wedding look—keep it breathable with linen blends.
- Mismatched neutrals (mix-and-match): Let groomsmen choose different jackets and trousers within a palette (navy, gray, beige) for a modern, relaxed aesthetic.
- Black tuxedos for groomsmen: For black-tie events, keep lapels and accessories consistent—matching bow ties and satin-stripe trousers keep the party cohesive.
Accessories that pull the look together
Small details make a big difference: matching ties or bow ties, complementary pocket squares, coordinated boutonnieres, and cohesive socks. If you want an accent color, use it sparingly—think pocket square or tie—so photos remain timeless. For step-by-step knot help, see our tie styles and tutorials.
Groomsmen suits: Final checklist
Before you order or rent, run through this checklist to avoid last-minute headaches.
- Confirm color palette with the bride and bridesmaids.
- Collect measurements and order at least 8–12 weeks before the wedding.
- Schedule tailoring 2–3 weeks before the date.
- Decide rent vs buy and communicate costs clearly to the party.
- Provide clear guidance on shoes and accessories to ensure cohesion.
Groomsmen suit fitting checklist
When trying on suits, check these fit points:
- Shoulders align with natural shoulder—no overhang or puckering.
- Jacket length covers the seat and the bottom of the zipper.
- Sleeve shows about a quarter-inch of shirt cuff.
- Collar lies flat against the neck—no gaps.
- Trousers have a slight break over the shoe (or no break for modern tapered looks).
Preparing and caring for groomsmen suits on the wedding day
Transport suits on hangers and use garment bags. Steam or professionally press them the day before—don’t use an iron directly on delicate fabrics. Prepare an emergency kit: spare buttons, safety pins, stain wipes, a lint roller, and a shoelace or two. Assign someone (best man or groom’s mom) to oversee final checks and buttoning protocol to keep photos consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should groomsmen rent or buy suits?
It depends on budget and future use. Renting is economical for once-off wear and guarantees uniformity. Buying gives a better fit and value if groomsmen want to reuse the suit. Consider a hybrid approach: buy the jacket and trousers, rent the tux components for formal events, or provide ties and pocket squares to unify rented suits.
What color suits should the groomsmen wear?
Choose colors that complement the wedding palette and venue. Navy and charcoal are versatile and photograph well. Light gray and tan suit outdoor or daytime weddings. Avoid overly trendy colors that may date photos—stick to a coherent palette that complements bridesmaid dresses.
How far in advance should groomsmen get fitted?
Collect measurements and order suits at least 8–12 weeks before the wedding. Schedule tailoring and final fittings 2–3 weeks prior. This timeline allows for shipping, alterations, and any unforeseen delays.
Conclusion — Make your groomsmen suits count
Groomsmen suits are a key part of the wedding’s visual story. With thoughtful choices around color, fit, fabric, and accessories, your crew can look cohesive and confident without breaking the bank. Start early, communicate clearly, and prioritize fit—those details make the photos and the memories. Ready to choose the perfect suits for your wedding party? Browse our detailed wedding suit styles guide and tie tutorials to get started.
Call to action: If you’re organizing suits for the wedding, download our printable groomsmen checklist and share it with your party today. Need help with colors or fit for a specific body type? Contact our styling team or check our rent vs buy guide to make the best decision for your group.
