“On your wedding day it’s all about the bride. Her dress, her flowers, her hair. But when everyone is looking at her she’ll be look at you.” I have always loved that quotation from the Men’s Wearhouse commercial because it is so true yet I don’t see it talked about enough. I turned to a close friend, Raquel Sotto, Assistant Menswear Buyer at YM Inc & fashion blogger, to get the latest on what is in fashion for the grooms and groomsmen of 2013. (Ladies, show this to your man!)
When it comes to weddings, it seems that people always talk about trends for brides, bridesmaids, and other female trends within the wedding party, but what about the groom? Is it not his day to look just as smashing?!
The Tuxedo has been the front runner in formal attire for men since the 1860’s and has not changed much in design since its introduction to the fashion world. Originally, the formal dress attire included tailcoats, which was found to be too formal for dinner every night, thus the tuxedo jacket was created without the tailcoat.
There are three basic styles I would suggest to a groom; a two button tux, a three piece tuxedo, and for a more daring look, the double breasted tuxedo.
The two button blazer shown above on Eddie Redmayne, is a classic, elegant, and fool proof. The satin wide pointed lapels add a style element to his look, along with the tuxedo shirt with pronounced buttons.
Ben Affleck is wearing a 3 piece ensemble which is another great look for grooms. The vest is slimming and stylish. This is also good for when the reception is over, and the groom takes his jacket off, he will still look polished and elegant in the vest alone. Again, a wide pointed lapel in contrasting fabric definitely makes a statement.
Chris Pine is sporting the double breasted tuxedo, which is a little daring when it comes tuxes; however it is a great look. I think the fabric of his tux is what intrigues me the most. It has a really nice sheen to it which adds to the style. The lapels match the rest of the tuxedo which is a little more reserved, but the button element of this tuxedo is what makes it truly stand out. He is also sporting it in a midnight blue which is a nice change to the classic black. Double breasted suits are a trend that comes and goes within menswear, so if you’re look to get more wear our of your tuxedo, I would stick with a more classic style like the two mentioned earlier.
There are three basic styles I would suggest to a groom; a two button tux, a three piece tuxedo, and for a more daring look, the double breasted tuxedo.
Style is definitely important when choosing a tuxedo, but the most important thing to consider is fit. Suits and tuxedos look infinitely more polished if they are tailored correctly. A slim fit is very flattering cut for most guys. The blazer should be tailed in at the waist to create the triangle look. It will enhance the shoulders and chest, while keeping the stomach area and lower body looking fit.
The trimmings and details of the tuxedo are what truly make it different than your typical black suit. Contrasting lapels, and pointed lapels, are very elegant and dapper. You can also try a shawl collar lapel for a twist on the classic look. (As seen on Adrien Brody)
Tuxedo shirts come in a couple of different styles. A white shirt with black buttons looks extremely classy with a nice black bowtie. You can also opt for a gunmetal or bronze button which is different but still stylish. You can never go wrong with white buttons either so it really depends on how daring you are.
The trimmings and details of the tuxedo are what truly make it different then your typical black suit.
Bowties are traditionally worn with tuxedo which I think is a nice change to the long tie. Some bridal parties want everything to match, so they make the groom and groomsmen all wear ties or pocket squares in the same color as the bridesmaid’s gowns, which has a nice look to it if it’s done right.
For a summer wedding, a nice alternative for the groom is to wear a white jacket a la James Bond. I love the contrast to the black pants, and it’s not so common, so if you’re the type of guy to surprise people with your look, I would consider this option for you special day!
For all the latest on Raquel’s fashion forward insights check her blog
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