Here Are the Top Groomsmen Attire Questions, Answered (2024)

While the bride and bridesmaids' looks tend to steal the spotlight on the big day, groomsmen's attire is just as important when pulling a wedding vision together. This is a monumental day, after all, and those involved in a wedding are typically required to dress to impress. Thus, when it comes to selecting what the groomsmen will wear, grooms should put a lot of thought and effort into these special looks. That means every piece of clothing must be evaluated against specific elements of the celebration, including the venue and formality of the event.

For example, if your wedding takes place during the warmer months, daytime, or outdoors, ensembles with lighter colors and causal fabrics are great options to consider. If your event is in the evening, takes place in a high-end venue, or has a black-tie or formal dress code, dark suits or tuxedos should be your look of choice. That being said, it's also important to adhere to a few style rules when selecting this type of wedding attire: Everyone should be dressed in the same level of formality, in adherence to the dress code; the groomsmen's attire should complement the bridesmaids' attire; and no outfit should take the spotlight away from the bride or groom.

While some of these tips may seem pretty straightforward, we do understand that you likely have a few additional questions as it pertains to what groomsmen should wear. So, with the help of two menswear experts, we’re answering the top groomsmen style questions below. Read on for more.

The Top Groomsmen Attire Questions

Here, the experts break down everything you need to know when putting together groomsmen ensembles.

What do groomsmen typically wear?

“Groomsmen traditionally wear a suit or a tuxedo that matches or complements what the groom has decided to wear,” says Barrett Dudley, host of the Cool Club podcast. Why? Well, matching with the style and feel of the groom’s attire (and in corresponding pieces with the entire wedding party) will help ensure that everyone looks cohesive, especially in photos.

Do the groomsmen have to match?

According to Terence To, vice president of sales and marketing at Brooklyn Brigade, groomsmen in a wedding party usually match in accordance with the designated dress code. However, that's not a hard and fast rule, as more and more couples today are opting for mismatched wedding party looks—and that's okay! “At the very least, groomsmen should all be dressed in a similar color palette,” advises Dudley. “If you leave the dudes to their own devices, you [could] end up with two guys in navy suits, one in a tux, and the other wearing pinstripes.”

Who pays for the groomsmen's attire?

Traditionally, all attendants buy or rent their own wedding day looks. Grooms should be up-front with the expected prices and let their friends be a part of the selection process. What's more, if you’d like to let your guys wear their own suits (something they’ll be thrilled about), be sure to give them specific style guidelines. You can also ask them to submit a photo of their outfit a few months before the event, so if someone does need to rent or purchase a new ensemble, they have time.

"However, in some cases, the groom may choose to help cover some or all of the expense on behalf of his groomsmen. It really depends on each person’s financial situation and personal expectations," shares To. "The important thing is to be upfront about it either way so that each groomsman understands those expectations and can make an informed decision about signing up."

When should the outfits be ordered?

As soon as you’ve settled on a style, be sure everyone places their rental or purchase orders as soon as possible. "Leave enough time for something to go wrong because inevitably something will. There might be delays with shipping. Some items may not be in stock. Someone may get the wrong item or the wrong size. Someone will forget or procrastinate," says To. A general rule of thumb: All groomsmen's looks should be ordered no later than a couple of months before the big day.

Do groomsmen have to wear suits?

No, groomsmen are not required to wear suits, though this ultimately depends on the dress code. As To notes, couples are choosing to celebrate their nuptials in their own personal ways and that is usually reflected in the attire they choose for their wedding party. "You might see the groomsmen wearing a vest instead of a suit jacket. Maybe [the groomsmen] have open collars (no tie) and [are] wearing suspenders instead of belts. There are lots of options besides suits!" he adds.

Of course, this also depends on who you select to be in your wedding party and that person's gender identity. You will want to ensure that everyone standing by your side is comfortable with what they are wearing.

Does thebest man wear the same thing as the groomsmen?

"It’s more common for the best man to wear the same thing as the groomsmen, though sometimes he may have one smaller detail (i.e. a different boutonniere or lapel pin) to distinguish him as the best man," shares To. However, this isn't a requirement, and the couple has the option to switch up tradition and do things differently.