As a new year dawns, a packed calendar of social events and occasions awaits, and if you’ve already got a wedding or two in the diary over the next twelve months then there’s no time like the present to start planning your ensemble for the big day.
Getting your wedding outfit right might seem like a stressful task, but it’s simpler than you think, and armed with a few key commandments to guide you, you’ll have the perfect suit and accessories locked and loaded well ahead of time.
Unsure where to start? Allow us to break it down for you.
1. Thou shalt prioritise fit above all else
For men, the basis of any elegant wedding outfit is a sharp suit or tuxedo, and the fit is the most important factor when it comes to ensuring you look flawless. An ill-fitting jacket or pair of trousers that is too tight or too long is the easiest way to spoil the effect of even the most expensive designer two-piece, but unfortunately these are common issues with off-the-rack options. Make sure your jacket fits snugly and your trousers give you enough room to move around with ease. They should end just above your shoes to be the ideal length, so be sure to have them altered if necessary to ensure they fit just right.
Better yet, have your suit tailor-made for the occasion. That way, it will be designed especially for you and will fit you like a glove, looking suave, sophisticated and expensive and winning you plenty of compliments on the big day.
2. Thou shalt not shy away from experimenting with colour
Whilst classic colours like grey and navy will always remain popular and you can never go far wrong with black if all else fails, colour is set to be big news in men’s wedding suits for 2025, so don’t be afraid to be a little more adventurous and experiment with different hues.
Jewel tones are particularly on-trend for the year ahead, and from deep burgundy to sapphire blue and emerald green, these rich shades are great choices for autumn and winter weddings. Moving towards spring and summer, and pastels like powder blue, blush pink and pale yellow are all beautiful choices that will reflect the spirit of the season and perfectly compliment the florals that are traditionally worn to weddings by female guests at this time of year.
3. Thou shalt accessorise with purpose
Once you’ve got the basics down and your suit is sorted, it’s time to move onto the accessories. A great tie or pocket square can really put the finishing touches on a look and make the difference between bold and boring, taking even the most traditional suit to the next level – so be sure to choose yours wisely.
Remember the mantra that less is more to avoid overwhelm, and choose just one or two accessories that will enhance, rather than detract from your ensemble. The key is to add one of two things; personality, or polish – ideally selecting pieces that will do a bit of both. A pocket square in a contrasting colour or with a subtle pattern on it will infuse your look with a touch of fun and individuality, while an expensive pair of cufflinks or a designer watch will add a sense of opulence and exude refinement and excellent taste.
And let’s not forget the shoes, which contrary to popular belief, are actually one of the first things people notice about you when you enter a room. Choose a smart pair and be sure to give them a thorough clean ahead of time. For spring and summer, loafers add a laid-back twist without looking scruffy, while for the rest of the year, a shiny pair of brogues will never let you down.