What to wear to a wedding: Men’s style

Weddings are a great time to celebrate friends and family but choosing what to wear can sometimes feel challenging. Although men typically have more limited options than women, there are still a variety of different styles they can choose from while still catering to the formality of the wedding. This guide provides tips on what to wear for both formal and casual weddings, so you’re prepared for any occasion.

What to wear to a formal wedding

If you’ve been invited to a formal wedding, it will generally specify a dress code on the invitation, such as black-tie or cocktail. You can also usually determine what type of wedding it is by where it takes place. In general, formal weddings are in grand settings, such as historic venues, or upscale hotels, and have many guests. Below are two classic options for formal weddings and how you can dress for each.

Black-tie

For black-tie events, formal, classic attire is essential. Traditionally, men wear a tuxedo in a dark colour such as black or midnight blue. The tuxedo jacket should be paired with matching trousers, a crisp white dress shirt, a bow tie and patent leather shoes. You can also add a cummerbund or a low-profile waistcoat to your outfit.

To add a bit of personal flair, try incorporating a subtle pocket square in white or use other accessories to add a gentle pop of colour. For example, you could opt for a bow tie in a shade that contrasts the rest of your ensemble, perhaps to match your partner’s outfit. Alternatively, you could wear an understated watch or pair of cufflinks to accessorise and add an elegant touch to the overall look.

If the wedding is ‘black-tie optional’, it’s not essential to wear a tuxedo (though you can wear one if you’d like to). You can wear a dark suit instead of a tuxedo paired with a white shirt and silk tie.

Cocktail

Cocktail is a popular dress code for weddings, offering more freedom with colours and patterns. For this, men can wear a tailored suit in a darker shade such as navy, charcoal or deep green. You can pair the suit with a dress shirt and either a classic or patterned tie, allowing for a touch of personalisation. A pocket square, either in a complementary colour or with a subtle pattern, is a great way to complete the outfit.

To add individuality to your cocktail attire, try introducing texture. For example, a silk tie with a slight sheen, a velvet pocket square or suede shoes can make a cocktail outfit feel special. Cufflinks or a unique tie pin can also add polish, and for footwear, consider dark dress shoes such as Oxfords or brogues for a classic finish.

What to wear to a casual wedding

Casual weddings tend to be a bit more intimate and laid-back than formal, traditional weddings. They can be held anywhere, from a beach to a garden to a reception venue. While the atmosphere is more relaxed, it’s still important to look put-together and respectful. Here are two looks that keep things comfortable without sacrificing style.

Smart casual

When the dress code specifies smart casual, it can be tricky to know what to wear. To find the balance between formal and informal, try out a combination of chinos or dress trousers with a simple blazer. It’s a good idea to wear a collared shirt, either in a soft colour or subtle pattern but there’s no need to put on a tie. In cooler weather, you can add a plain or subtly patterned jumper under the blazer for extra texture and warmth.

Smart casual allows for more creativity in colour and fabric choices. In outdoor and daytime settings, you can try earth tones, light blues and pastel colours. Fabrics like linen or lightweight wool are great for warm weather events, adding comfort and sophistication. For personalisation, you can incorporate a patterned or textured belt and opt for loafers or sleek leather shoes in a coordinating colour.

Casual

If the wedding is casual, this normally means it’s being held in an outdoor setting and will likely have more of a laid-back feel to it. This doesn’t mean that you can wear clothes such as shorts, tank tops or flip flops unless the couple says otherwise. You’ll still want to look sharp, just without the formalities of a suit and tie.

A pair of clean, well-fitted dark jeans or chinos combined with a button-down shirt or polo can be ideal for laid-back settings. Keep the shirt tucked in for a neater appearance and avoid overly casual denim. For footwear, consider loafers, desert boots or a pair of stylish trainers – just ensure they’re in good condition and align with the overall tone of your outfit.

Dressing for a wedding can be tricky to get right, but with these tips, you can easily put together a suitable outfit. Not sure about your event’s dress code? The best thing you can do is get in touch with someone close to the couple – such as a member of the wedding party – and ask for pointers. Remember, though, planning a wedding can be a very busy affair, so ask plenty of time in advance in case they don’t get back to you immediately.