The Complete Modern Groomsmen’s Wedding Suit Style Guide

Being chosen as a groomsman is both an honor and a responsibility—and what you wear is more important than you might think. While the spotlight is firmly on the couple, groomsmen help shape the visual story of the wedding. From walking down the aisle to standing beside the groom in photos, your suit needs to strike the right balance between style, coordination, and respect for the occasion. This guide will help you master your groomsman look with confidence and polish.

Why the Right Groomsman Suit Matters

Your role as a groomsman is to support the groom—not to steal the show, but to look sharp and cohesive with the wedding party. The right suit should match the formality of the event, align with the couple’s chosen palette, and complement the groom’s outfit without competing with it. Whether the wedding leans toward black-tie elegance, rustic chic, or coastal ease, your attire helps create the overall atmosphere. That’s why selecting the right men’s wedding suits isn’t just about fitting in—it’s about enhancing the wedding’s cohesive visual story.

Wedding Suits vs. Tuxedos: What’s the Difference?

Before selecting your outfit, it’s important to understand the difference between a tuxedo and a suit—especially if the groom or couple hasn’t specified dress code details.

• Tuxedos include satin details like lapels, buttons, and stripes down the pants. They are reserved for black-tie or formal evening weddings and are traditionally paired with bow ties and patent leather shoes.
  
• Suits offer broader versatility and come in different fabrics and cuts suited for a range of settings. Daytime, outdoor, or destination weddings often call for well-fitted suits in lighter fabrics such as linen or cotton blends.

Check with the groom or wedding planner on the dress code, and match the formality accordingly.

Fit First: Tailoring Still Matters for Groomsmen

Just because you’re not the groom doesn’t mean you can skip the tailor. A well-fitting suit helps ensure the whole party looks unified and polished in person and in photos. Most weddings require some degree of coordination across the groomsmen—if not in exact suits, then at least in fit and formality.

Slim Fit
Modern and sleek, great for a sharp silhouette—best on athletic or leaner builds and suited to contemporary weddings.

Classic Fit
Roomier and comfortable, this traditional style works well for most body types and long days of celebration.

Tailored Fit (Modern Fit)
A middle ground that combines clean lines with comfort. It’s flattering without being too tight, and a favourite for many wedding parties.

Even if you rent your suit, budget for basic alterations to get the right sleeve and pant lengths—it makes all the difference.

Common Groomsmen Suit Styles

Classic Two-Piece Suit

This is the most popular choice for groomsmen: a matching jacket and trousers in a unified colour. It’s simple, flexible, and can be easily accessorised to tie in with the wedding’s colour scheme—think pocket squares, boutonnieres, or matching ties.

(Savile Black Wool Blend Suit)

Three-Piece Suit

If the groom opts for a three-piece, chances are the groomsmen will follow suit (pun intended). The added waistcoat gives the look a touch of extra formality and ensures you still look put-together if you take the jacket off during the reception.

(Savile Tan Wool Blend 3-Piece Suit)

Double-Breasted Suit

A more fashion-forward option, this style can elevate your look—but it’s typically reserved for formal weddings and taller groomsmen. Only go for this if it aligns with the groom’s vision and the overall theme.

Matching the Theme: Fabric & Colour Considerations

As a groomsman, your job isn’t to stand out—it’s to complement the couple’s vision. That said, you can still bring style and personality through fabrics, texture, and subtle colour.

Fabric Guide

• Wool: Timeless and formal—perfect for evening or church weddings.
  
• Linen or Cotton Blends: Great for summer, garden, or beach weddings.
  
• Velvet or Tweed: Stylish choices for fall/winter or rustic weddings.
  

Colour Coordination

• Navy, Charcoal, Black: Universally flattering and easy to match.
  
• Beige, Light Grey, Soft Blue: Softer, more casual tones ideal for daylight or outdoor settings.
  
• Accent Colors: Often reflected in ties, pocket squares, or socks to match the bridal party.

Always check with the groom about the colour scheme and don’t improvise—cohesion is key.

Style by Wedding Venue

Aligning your look with the setting shows you understand the assignment.

• Black Tie Wedding (Ballroom or Grand Venue): Expect a tuxedo or dark formal suit with polished shoes and minimal accessories.
  
• Banquet Hall or Indoor Semi-Formal: Navy or charcoal two-piece suits are versatile; dress it up with a patterned tie or silk pocket square.
  
• Outdoor or Garden Wedding: Light fabrics and colors are encouraged—linen suits, floral ties, and loafers are great choices.
  
• Beach Wedding: Think breathable suits, rolled-up sleeves, and perhaps even no tie. Make sure your shoes suit sand or boardwalk.
  
• Traditional Church Ceremony: Stick with conservative colours and a clean, tailored look—three-piece suits work well here.

Final Tips for Groomsmen

Follow the Groom’s Lead

Always respect the groom’s chosen style. This is his day, and your job is to support and reflect his vision—not reinterpret it.

Be Punctual with Planning

If you’re renting a suit, get fitted early and confirm everything well ahead of the wedding day. If you’re buying, give yourself time for tailoring. Avoid last-minute panic.

Accessories: Less is More

Keep accessories clean, coordinated, and modest. Match your tie or pocket square to the wedding palette, but avoid flashy statement pieces unless asked.

Stay Comfortable

You’ll be wearing your outfit for hours—through photos, toasts, and dancing. Make sure it fits well, breathes, and allows movement.

Being a groomsman is about more than just standing at the altar—it’s about showing up in support, in style, and in sync. The right suit helps you do all three. Dress with intention, tailor with care, and you’ll not only look great in the photos—you’ll feel proud to be part of the groom’s story.