The Ultimate Style Guide for Best Man Outfit
It is a role of great responsibility and honour. You stand by the groom, your closest friend's side, as they go through this defining moment in their life. You share happiness, offer support and carry out important duties. In the middle of all these aspects of the role of a best man is also the question of how you look.
You're an essential part of the wedding atmosphere. Therefore, looking sharp is key. You have the difficult task of complementing the groom without overshadowing him but still looking your best.
Basically, on this day, there will be a lot of expectations surrounding you. From the suit you wear to the accessories you choose, your appearance has to reflect the tone of the event. So, what should the best man wear? We are here to tell you just that!
How to Choose the Best Man's Wedding Outfit
Before you even begin to consider the outfit, you need to understand the theme and location of the wedding. These hold the key to your look as they have to fit the atmosphere of the place.
Here's our advice on how to assess the situation:
Check Formality Levels
Formal: If the happy couple has chosen the highest level of formality, the black tie wedding, then you'll be expected to wear a tuxedo. Check with the groom if he's going to wear one. If he does, you should, too. To play it safe, stick with the classic black, navy, and dark grey suits with a bow tie and well-polished shoes. A classic never goes out of style.
Semi-formal: These weddings will give you some breathing space. You can go for a well-tailored suit in lighter colours like charcoal or even pastel shades. Check if the tie or cravat is optional, as they might well be. A classic long-sleeved shirt is expected, and you may even have the opportunity to choose a patterned one. You can even have your choice with shoes - think Oxford or smart loafers.
Casual: If your friend is one of these laid-back people, well, you win at life! For a casual wedding, you can choose a light suit or even a dress shirt and trousers. No tie. You are free! Loafers are a great option here as well. This is the perfect occasion to also introduce some bold accessories. Experiment with socks, braces, and square pockets in different patterns and colours to see what works best. But not all at once!
Consider the Location
Beach: Comfort will be key here. Not at the price of style, of course. Think pastel colours, linen shirts, loafers and dressy sandals. A tip from us is to always opt for breathable material. Thank us later.
Garden: Garden weddings allow (dare we say even expect) you to incorporate some floral accents into your outfit. A light-coloured, well-tailored suit with a tie will keep things timeless and classy.
Ballroom: Such a formal setting requires some formal touches. Consider adding cufflinks or a pocket square. A sleek dress watch will completely steal the show.
Don't be shy and ask the groom all about the formality, setting and expectations. A best man's wedding outfit relies heavily on these factors.
Coordinate with The Groom
You are the best man. Your sole job is to complement the groom's look. Without overshadowing it. Here's how to dress for a wedding to support the groom at his moment:
If the groom wears a tuxedo, so should you. If he's opting for a suit, you follow him with the same choice. From then on, things start to differ. If he chooses bold colours, you need to keep your outfit more natural so as to avoid any clashing.
Of course, weddings are not only formal but also fun events where family and friends share inside jokes and the happy couple's joyful moments. It is very likely that your best mate wants to include some fun, colourful details in your outfits. Absolutely go for it, but make sure you do it more subtly so as not to steal the spotlight.
Finally, we advise you to make sure your communication with the groom remains open til the very day of the event. Ideas will fly left and right, and new requests will come up. Make sure you always stay coordinated on every outfit detail.
What Does the Best Man Wear?
The answer may be daunting but your options as a best man are many. Everything from shirt to accessories plays an important part to your look.
The Right Shirt
White: A classic white is a sharp choice that will pair well with everything else your outfit requires. Safe but so dapper!
Off-White or Light Pastels: If the wedding requires a softer, warmer look, consider choosing an off-white or light pastel shirt. Most often, it will be best for beach and garden weddings.
Subtle Patterns: You can introduce Paisley or checked shirts. These will add texture and visual interest to your suit. Don’t go overboard, though.
Tie, Cravat, or Bow Tie?
Ties are perfect for modern and semi-formal weddings. Check with the groom, as they might be optional. Go for solid colours or subtle patterns, but avoid bold shades at all costs unless specified by the man of the show.
Cravats are best for vintage weddings and more formal events. They are elegant, old-school and edgy. If this sounds like the vibe, go for it!
Finally, bow ties are mainly only appropriate for black-tie weddings. It's a super sharp, polished appearance that complements tuxedos perfectly.
Shoes
A best man is known by the details, starting with his shoes. Or so they say. Oxfords are a classic that pairs well with formal events. But if the vibe calls for something more relaxed, you are free to go for brogues. They are a good option to add some personality without sacrificing elegance. And loafers, of course, offer unmatched comfort for casual weddings.
Tip: Do remember to polish your shoes before the wedding and make sure they are in top condition. Dirty or scuffed shoes will completely ruin your look. Take your time to prepare them for the big day. You won't regret it. The devil is in the details.
Accessories
This is your chance to show your personality. (Subtly, of course!) Accessories are your finishing touches, taking your best man's outfit to the next level.
Watches: A classic is the best choice here. Something sleek and sophisticated, ideally silver, gold or leather, will be your cherry on top!
Belts: As a rule of thumb, belts should always match the shoes in both colour and material.
Socks: Socks can be a fun way to add a pop of colour or even a quirky pattern. You can use them to hint at an inside joke with the groom and bride.
Braces: To add a bit of a personal touch, you can step up your suit game with some colourful braces (but always check with the groom). It's a nod to a vintage classic that will reflect your edge and unique personality.
Final Touches
Looking sharp is more than what you wear on the big day. It's about how you show up for your best mate on this most important day of his life. Make informed choices, coordinate with him and pay attention to every detail. This way, you will look your best and feel your best throughout the day.
You will have a lot on your plate, but remember your key role: to stand out just enough. Set the perfect balance, and you will have set the tone for a celebration to remember.
What’s left now is to keep it cool and enjoy the event. You have everything in check to make this day unforgettable!