Irrespective of whether it’s a family wedding, a friend’s or even an office colleague’s wedding, you need to make sure that you are dressed in such a way that will leave the best impact without creating such a sensation that the bride or the groom is upstaged. How you dress up also depends on the dress code specified by the hosts that indicates the extent of formalness expected to be adhered to at the function.
Some tips on dressing right for the big day:
Black Tie Weddings
As far as sophistication and class go there’s really nothing to beat a tuxedo at a formal black tie wedding. Even with the general softening of wedding dress codes in modern times, the black tie remains a standard in formal attire especially when paired with a tuxedo. Usually, the medium weight wool jacket will be black, though you may prefer blue with a lapel of satin that will subtly contrast with the matte finish of the jacket. You may also experiment with bolder colors, however, the trouser will invariably still be only black with a grosgrain stripe on out-seams of the legs to match the jacket lapel. The trouser sits high on the waist and has no loops for a belt.
You can opt for a clean look by keeping the shirt front plain, but for a fancy look, you can choose pleats or a textured touch that comes with the classic Marcella cloth. It is better to sport a turn-down collar while the buttons can either be concealed or on show. Go with a classic black dress shoe with laces with any embellishments or design elements that stand out. Opt for a bow tie with the same finish as that of the jacket lapel. If you are wearing a cummerbund or a waistcoat ensure that the pleats are face up. To complete the formal look, you can use cufflinks, a lapel pin, a pocket square or even a silk scarf, especially if it’s a winter wedding.
Semi-Formal Weddings
This is the most popular dress code specified nowadays and also your safest bet in case nothing has been mentioned. Definitely not as formal as a black tie, it, however, is by no means, casual. While you need to dress conservatively, you should not look as if you have dropped in after attending office because that comes across as being very stuffy and unoriginal. By all means wear a two piece dark suit if you do not want the formality of a three-piece, though, during the summer and daytime, it is perfectly acceptable to sport a lighter suit. The shirt should be a solid color, even an unobtrusive pattern or a toned down jacquard. Needless to say, you need to ensure that the shirt is clean and crisp and the collar stiff and sharp.
Wearing Oxfords is a very good choice to accentuate a semi-formal look though you can also consider monk straps if you want a bolder look. Do not depart from black or brown shades and make sure that the shoes are in good condition, clean and shiny. Highlight the semi-formal look with knitted ties and pocket squares but don’t go overboard with bold colors – play around with textures instead for a classier look. You can pick up a smart tungsten ring from an online retailer like Men’s Wedding Bands.com that will start quite a few conversations.
Smart Casual Weddings
Smart casual wedding dress codes are increasingly becoming popular because it allows guests to relax their dress standards to a great extent while still ensuring that they do not run riot. The essence of this style is being comfortable while still being stylish and projecting a laid-back attitude. A wedding with a smart casual dress code is just the opportunity for taking a welcome break from dark conservative formal suits with some bold colors and patterns that sit up and beg to be noticed. The jacket and the trousers need not be color coordinated and you can opt for some saturated colors and wear them as separates. If the jacket is colorful, make sure that the trouser is relatively sober for the best effect. You can go ahead and experiment with some really colorful shirts. Don’t go overboard with the shoes; casual shoes are perfectly okay but make sure that they are comfortable and clean.
Conclusion
Whatever be the stated or expected dress code, take care to restrain yourself and not go in for anything that may be interpreted as too much. Even when being casual, it is better not to go really wild. After all, the main intention is to look smart and not become more of a showstopper than the bride or the groom.