Weddings are the occasion men worry about most, and the rule is simpler than it looks: read the invitation, dress a notch smarter than you think you need to, and leave the spotlight to the couple. If the invite names a dress code, that wins; our lounge suit and black tie guides cover those. If it says morning dress, that means a morning coat, which most guests hire.
What to wear, piece by piece
- Jacket
- A suit is the safest choice. Navy, mid-grey or a soft blue suits almost any venue, and a lighter cloth or linen blend keeps you comfortable in summer. For a relaxed barn or garden wedding, a blazer with contrasting trousers is fine.
- Shirt and tie
- Pressed, plain or with a fine stripe; white and pale blue never go wrong. Wear a tie for a church, register office or formal venue. You can always take it off for the evening.
- Trousers
- Matching suit trousers, or wool or cotton trousers in a contrasting shade if you're wearing a blazer. The hem should just touch the top of the shoe.
- Shoes
- Leather Oxfords, Derbies or smart loafers, polished the night before. Brown suits daytime and outdoor weddings; black suits formal and evening ones.
- Extras
- A simple pocket square adds a sense of occasion without fuss. A belt that matches your shoes, dark socks, and a light layer if the evening runs late outdoors.
What to avoid
- All white or cream: that belongs to the couple.
- Jeans or trainers, unless the couple have said so.
- Anything you'd wear to the office on a Friday. It's a celebration; dress like it.
- Head-to-toe black at a daytime wedding, which can look sombre.
Two ways to wear it
Navy suit, white shirt, a plain or softly patterned tie in a muted colour, brown leather Derbies with a matching belt, and a white pocket square.
Light grey or soft blue suit, pale pink or blue shirt, a knitted tie and suede loafers for a summer garden wedding. Lose the tie for the evening reception.
Quick questions
Do I have to wear a tie?
For a church or formal venue, yes. For a relaxed or outdoor wedding, a well-cut suit with an open collar is usually fine. If in doubt, wear one; it's easy to take off.
Can I wear a black suit?
You can, especially for an evening wedding, but navy and grey look warmer in daylight photos and less like a work uniform.
What about a summer or abroad wedding?
Choose lighter cloth such as linen or a cotton blend, lighter colours and loafers. Keep the jacket on until the groom takes his off.