Style is a subjective thing, but it can also be objectively measured in several ways. Whether you are traditional or eccentric, one thing you want is for your groom to be relatively stylish. So, in this edition, we are speaking straight to the men…on your behalf, of course!
First things first, while it’s impossible to say definitively what makes the perfectly stylish groom, here’s a list of dos and don’ts to guide you and your partner in planning your big day.
DOs
Dress for the occasion
This probably shouldn’t even be said, but dress for the wedding you are attending. If you don’t already know, find out which outfits are appropriate for each of the ceremonies you have lined up. Don’t shock your bride and her family by turning up in a suit for your traditional wedding, for example. Dress up or down as the occasion demands.
Look smart
Wear clean (including underwear), ironed outfits, polish your shoes, and accessorize properly. You don’t have to wear too much, and it doesn’t have to be overly expensive, just ensure that your outfit is neat and comfortable.
Dress for your frame
You might be too unfashionable to care how you look on a regular day, but your wedding day is not the day to try to pull off an ill-fitting suit. Wear what suits your body type. Having your outfits made especially for you—instead of buying off a store rack. This will ensure that what you wear is the perfect fit.
Complement your bride
Yes, you are an individual, but you are celebrating two people becoming one. Be on the same page as your bride to avoid being more dressed up than your bride. This will also prevent your colours from clashing and is just one more way to show how in sync you both are.
Smell nice
The visuals aren’t the only important elements of being stylish. A groom shouldn’t look good but smell funky. Remember that it’s going to be a long day, and it may even be somewhat stressful, so get in a few extra spritz of your favourite scent. This also extends to your mouth. Keep mints handy to ensure that your breath is fresh at all times, as you’ll be speaking and smiling a lot.
Stand and walk tall
Carry yourself with confidence. Avoid slouching, even if you’re tired. Stand and walk tall at all times.
DON’Ts
Throw the rules out
No matter how eccentric you are as an individual, your wedding day isn’t the day to try to shock people. Don’t throw the rules out. If you feel inclined, bend them within reason and with class. While you want to be seen as stylish, it is better to be boring than to be clownish.
Look unkempt
A shaggy beard has its place perhaps, but not at your wedding. You need to look properly groomed at your wedding. Get a haircut and a manicure. Get a clean shave or beard trim and use cologne. Being groomed counts far more than wearing designer clothes even when the style is “fashionably sloppy”.
Here’s a handy thing to keep in mind when thinking about how you want to look on your wedding day: Decades from now, you’ll still have the photos. Would you want to hide them or display them proudly?