Feature photo by Riley McLean Weddings. Knots ‘N Such is a Raleigh area wedding planner & florist.

I’ve seen my fair share of brightly colored wedding attire over the years and I am not just speaking of the bridesmaids. Brightly colored vests among the groom and groomsmen seems to linger and always takes me back to my teen years when my older brother work a hot pink cumber-bun and bow tie with his gray tux. However,  I am here to assure you that there is nothing wrong with going classic instead. In fact, classic style is making a much needed come back.  A simple 2 or 3-piece suit paired with a neutral button up is simple and elegant….dashing even. If you desire color, there are ways to incorporate flourishes without going over the top.  The bride and groom’s attire should complement each other, as should the groomsmen and bridesmaids. The wedding party is a reflection of the happy couple, but this does not mean that the men must all match and look uniform; on the contrary, having suits that all match could be seen staged and not as natural. Here are some tips from a Raleigh wedding planner to consider when choosing the guys’ attire. 

Theme:

Les Atkins Photography

The most common reason to use color among the men of the wedding party is the style and wedding color palette. However, there are other ways to bring pops of that desired color into the attire without sacrificing that classic look and comfort. Consider a colorful boutonniere, tie, pocket square or cuff-links. These accessories can add just enough flare to draw the eye and pull the whole look together.

 When and Where:

McCardell Photography

Will the wedding be outdoor or in? What season will you choose for your big day? What climate is common for that time of year? These are important details to consider when choosing the Groom and Groomsmen’s attire as well. For instance, as a Raleigh wedding planner, I have planned my share of  spring weddings in  North Carolina. The weather is warm and the couple usually wants an outdoor ceremony to mark the season and the occasion. A vest may add an unnecessary layer in the NC heat. So choose light weight and light colors for warmer months. Choose dark and rich items for cooler months. Keep in mind… More often than not, the bride has a change of attire as the night goes on, and the groom will most likely take off his jacket to be more comfortable. And that’s okay once the I do’s are over!

Personality:

Jocelyn & Ryan Photography

Last, but not least, let’s talk about personality. We all know about the mismatched bridesmaid dress trend in recent years – and I’m a fan! In a similar vein… If the groom and groomsmen wore matching suits, their personality wouldn’t shine through nearly as bright. They lose their individuality. Now, no one is saying that these fine gentlemen should upstage the bride. However, these men were chosen for a reason. It would be a shame to take away the personal touches that put them in this position in the first place. Let’s say they all wore a charcoal or navy colored suit, not matching… but similar.  You can always add personalized details to each that represents who they are. If all of their suits did not match perfectly, and the colors were more simple and regal, the appearance of the wedding party will appear more relaxed, at ease, thus providing the perfect atmosphere  and the potential for some amazing wedding pictures.

A wedding is more than just being flashy and making everything memorable.  A wedding is a compromise, the beginning of a lifelong agreement to always talk things out, no matter how difficult.  Agreeing on wedding attire is a good place to start, especially when going for a timeless look that will still look good fifty years from now.

To see examples of my design work and for inspiration, please visit the Poppy Belle Design Gallery to see examples of groom and groomsmen attire. Interested in what I can do for your wedding? Contact me here!