Navigating wedding season can be a minefield. First, there are the many save-the-dates to wade through. Then there’s a marathon run of stag weekends away, and that’s all before you’ve even considered what to wear on the big day. With a bumper social schedule, it’s easy to fall into a fashion rut and adopt the Hugh Grant à la Four Weddings mindset that your workhorse suit will suffice for all occasions. Right? Wrong.
It’s not that we’re discouraging you from re-wearing a favourite, fitting two-piece – after all, quality tailoring is an investment that will last you for years. And, with the right shirts, shoes and accessories, a designer suit can be styled a multitude of ways. But as any seasoned wedding guest will attest, nailing the dress code is their single most important responsibility (besides getting there on time, telling the bride she looks beautiful, and adhering to the couple’s present list. No toasters, please).
To ensure you look perfectly placed in the photos, and to avoid raised eyebrows, we’ve broken down wedding outfits into four versatile and adaptable looks.
Black Tie Wedding
Where morning dress once held sway, eveningwear has increasingly become the urbane alternative for formal weddings. It’s a trend we wholeheartedly embrace: any excuse to don a tuxedo and do our best Bond impersonation. Monochrome is the preferred colour palette, though a midnight-blue suit with contrasting black trim is just as debonair, and the fabric is nearly always wool – something to consider if you’re planning to attend a warm-weather wedding. It goes without saying that your tux should be perfectly tailored (our instore Alterations Service can assist with that) and, for a timeless look, we recommend a one-button style with peaked lapels.
Our selection of men’s designer Shirts can also feature specialist detailing. Options include a cutaway or wing collar, bib front, and stud-button fastenings that are partially concealed to accommodate a cummerbund (optional). A bow tie is a must – we’ve gone for contrasting velvet – as are cufflinks and a pair of patent-leather Oxford shoes. Put it all together and you’ll cut a dashing figure on the big day.
Top tip: Always go by the invite. If it states traditional dress, then follow suit. There’s nothing worse than turning up in tux when everyone else is wearing tails.