Bridal Club Magazine

Wedding Day Fashion for Men

Ah, weddings. What guy doesn't groan when that big invitation comes in the mail? Between the tuxedos, toasts, and strange guests and relatives, it can all get a bit overwhelming. Add to that the media frenzy surround the royal wedding, and you know that wedding season is even more inescapable this season.

So, why not start with getting over the first hurdle -- your attire. Choosing the perfect tux or suit is half the battle when it comes to attending a wedding. Thankfully, I'm here to help (on the fashion end, at least), with some tips that make putting together the right outfit as easy as seducing tipsy bridesmaids.

• suiting up
  The suit is the cornerstone of men's wedding fashion. As a general rule of thumb, if you're in the wedding party, you're going to wear a tuxedo. If you're just a guest, however, you'll be good in a suit. That said, the style and color of the suit you wear depends on the type of attire specified in the wedding invitation.
  
  
• Black-tie only
  This is a formal wedding, and you'll need a basic tuxedo -- even if you're just a guest. Go with a black jacket with satin or grosgrain lapels, trousers (usually with a silken stripe down the side), a bow tie, and a cummerbund.
  
  
• White-tie/full evening dress
  Traditionally, this is a tux with tails, a top hat, an overcoat, a cane, and, of course, a white tie. It's the sort of thing Fred Astaire is known for wearing, and while it's increasingly rare for weddings, this type of getup will sometimes be required.
  
  
• Black-tie preferred
  If you're in the wedding party, be prepared to wear a white dinner jacket (in spring/summer) or a tux. If you're just a wedding guest, a black- or charcoal-colored suit is just fine.
  This fashion style usually pops up on invites for daytime weddings. While party members may be wearing English day coats/suits, you'll look sharp wearing a cotton, tweed or linen suit in an earthy color or a classic dark color.