Let’s face it; brides have it easy in the fashion department. You know you’ll be wearing a gorgeous gown (finding it is where the challenge comes in), then it’s all about getting the right shoes, tiara and clutch. Chances are, you’ll have all this sorted with six months to spare, but when it comes to your groom and his gear, it’s another story.
While yes, there is the classic and debonair tuxedo, he may want more from his wedding-day finery. You have incorporated your unique style into your W-day look, and he should do the same for his attire. “Weddings are about strong personal style, for both the bride and groom,” explains Lee Sullivan, a stylist with Toronto’s Plutino Group, for WEDDINGBELLS. “Whether your groom wants to wear a classic tuxedo or a simple suit for the big day, he should definitely embrace his individual fashion flair.”
Here, we profile three men of style to give you (and him) ideas about what to wear on W-day.
THE BRIT BOY
Style Icon Jude Law, as seen in Alfie, zipping around New York City wearing a sexy, slim-fit black suit and skinny tie.
What He’s Into
Lambretta scooters, The Beatles, collecting vintage vinyl.
Dream Honeymoon Destination London, England (natch).
Style Philosophy
He’s all about the idiosyncratic looks in Quadrophenia, the cult film featuring well-dressed mod mates, in fitted suits and signature parkas, scooting around London and rumbling with their rival gang, the Rockers.
His Wedding Ensemble
A slim-fit black suit featuring cigarette pants, which taper slightly at the ankles. His jacket is a three-button number, with thin, split lapels (think The Beatles in the early ’60s). A high-collared white shirt is a must, and is always paired with a skinny tie (traditionally in black, but these days colour is hot). When deciding on English-inspired wear, consider the Brits’ fascination with tweed. A three-button herringbone suit paired with a crisp white shirt and dramatic coloured tie may be a slick option for an autumn or winter wedding.
Shoes
Black, flat and pointy.
Major Accessory
The Union Jack is a celebrated symbol of anglophile style—cufflinks are the perfect way to quietly flaunt the flag.
THE MODERN MAN
Style Icon Leonardo DiCaprio, as seen at the 2004 Academy Awards, wearing a modern black tuxedo trimmed in silk, a white shirt, black tie and a white pocket square.
What He’s Into The latest gadgets (he has three iPods!), sports, fitness (including yoga), luxurious sporty convertibles.
Dream Honeymoon Destination
Alaskan cruise.
Style Philosophy
Minimalist chic, a mantra he follows for everything in life, from clothing and cars to furniture.
His Wedding Ensemble
The “M-Man” is into looking good with minimal fuss. Get inspired by our pal Leo at the Oscars, who looked sharp and sexy but not over-the-top. When it comes to a tuxedo, the modern man dresses it up with flashy, but classic accessories. If he chooses to wear a suit on his wedding day, it would be a simple one, in a timeless shade like charcoal grey or dark navy, and featuring a time-honoured two-button jacket.
Shoes
A sleek black or dark brown pair with a modern square toe.
Major Accessory
His dashing good looks! Remember, this is a guy who does not want to look overdone.
THE METROSEXUAL
Style Icon Sean Combs (a.k.a. P. Diddy) as seen at the 2004 GQ “Man of the Year” party, wearing a three-button grey velvet suit, open-collared white shirt and a white pocket square.
What He’s Into
The latest hot spots (restaurants, hotels, clubs), grooming, fashion mags.
Dream Honeymoon Destination
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America.
Style Philosophy
Very modern male chic, looking like he just stepped out of the pages of Vogue Homme and GQ.
His Wedding Ensemble
We’re talking about a man who probably knew exactly what he was wearing to walk up the aisle before you even looked at a wedding gown. Your guy isn’t afraid to stand out and make some heads turn. On the big day, a perfect choice for the metro groom would be a fitted black pinstripe suit with a one-button jacket, nattily worn with a brightly coloured pocket square (very au courant). His shirt would be colourful (perhaps with stripes), and his tie would be equally as bold. Being a true fashionista, he might even lose the tie altogether and opt for an open collar.
Shoes
A sleek snakeskin loafer.
Major Accessory
The Monaco 69 watch by Tag Heuer...he likes his bling-bling!
