When preparing for your big day, choosing the right accessories as a groom is just as important as selecting the suit or tuxedo.
Accessories enhance your overall appearance, adding both personality and sophistication.
This guide will help you navigate through the essential accessories every groom needs to consider for a polished, stylish wedding day look.
Let’s get straight to the point
This guide covers essential groom accessories for a polished wedding day look. Key items include ties, bow ties, waistcoats, braces, cufflinks, pocket squares, socks, shoes, watches, sunglasses, and tie bars.
Each accessory helps elevate the groom’s style, adding personal flair and sophistication. Coordinating accessories with the wedding party ensures a cohesive look.
Whether you opt for a traditional or modern approach, selecting the right accessories enhances your overall appearance, making you stand out on your special day.
1. Ties and Bow-Ties
Neckwear is an essential component of a groom’s outfit. Whether you prefer a classic tie or a playful bow-tie, this accessory adds a finishing touch to your suit or tuxedo.
Opt for a traditional black tie if you’re aiming for timeless elegance, but modern grooms can experiment with vibrant colours or bold patterns.
Bow-ties bring a touch of fun to your ensemble, especially for less formal weddings.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tie or Bow-Tie:
- Match the tie or bow-tie with the wedding colour scheme.
- Ensure it complements your suit or tuxedo.
- Consider patterns or textures to add personality to your look.
2. Waistcoats
A waistcoat adds a layer of formality and sophistication to any groom’s outfit.
Whether it’s part of a three-piece suit or worn on its own, a waistcoat can be tailored to match or contrast with your suit.
Available in fabrics such as tweed, velvet, or satin, waistcoats are ideal for adding a unique touch to your overall look.
Why Include a Waistcoat:
- Adds structure and formality to your outfit.
- Can be personalised with different fabrics and colours.
- Enhances both casual and formal looks.
3. Braces (Suspenders)
Braces, also known as suspenders, are a stylish and functional addition to a groom’s wedding outfit.
They hold your trousers in place while offering a vintage flair. Available in a range of colours and styles, braces can either blend in with your suit or make a bold statement.
Tips for Choosing Braces:
- Coordinate the braces with your suit or shirt.
- Opt for classic designs for a timeless look.
- Experiment with colours or patterns for a more modern edge.
4. Cufflinks
Cufflinks are a subtle but impactful accessory that can elevate your wedding attire.
Available in various designs, from traditional silver and gold to personalised options with initials, cufflinks add a touch of sophistication and can reflect your personal style.
Cufflink Ideas:
- Classic gold or silver for a traditional look.
- Personalised cufflinks with your initials or wedding date.
- Unique designs that reflect your hobbies or interests.
5. Pocket Squares
Pocket squares are the perfect accessory to add flair and sophistication to your suit or tuxedo.
Available in an array of fabrics, colours, and patterns, they can be used to complement or contrast with your tie. A well-chosen pocket square can add depth and style to your look.
How to Choose a Pocket Square:
- Match or contrast with your tie or bow-tie.
- Choose a colour that enhances your suit.
- Opt for a simple fold for a sleek, elegant appearance.
6. Buttonholes (Boutonnieres)
Buttonholes or boutonnieres are small yet elegant accessories pinned to the lapel of your jacket.
Traditionally made from fresh flowers, they can also include other decorative elements like feathers or unique pins. These are a great way to tie in the wedding theme with your attire.
Buttonhole Ideas:
- Choose flowers that match the wedding bouquet.
- Incorporate elements that reflect your personality.
- Opt for a design that complements your suit.
7. Socks
Socks might seem like a minor detail, but they offer a chance to inject some fun into your outfit.
Whether you opt for classic black or white socks, or prefer colourful or patterned options, socks add a personal touch to your wedding day look.
Choosing the Right Socks:
- Match them with your suit or choose a bold contrast.
- Fun, quirky patterns can add a playful twist.
- Ensure they’re comfortable for long wear throughout the day.
8. Shoes
Your choice of shoes can significantly impact your overall wedding attire.
Classic black lace-up shoes are always a safe and elegant choice, but don’t be afraid to step out of the box with options like brogues, Chelsea boots, or even velvet loafers.
If your wedding is more casual, stylish high-top Converse can make a statement while keeping you comfortable.
Shoe Selection Tips:
- Match the style to the formality of the wedding.
- Ensure your shoes are comfortable for extended wear.
- Experiment with colours like maroon, oxblood, or navy for a unique touch.
9. Watches
A stylish watch adds both function and flair to a groom’s outfit. Whether you opt for a sleek modern design or a vintage timepiece, a watch is more than just a practical accessory – it’s a statement piece.
Watch Tips:
- Choose a design that complements your suit.
- Opt for a watch with a metallic or leather band based on your preference.
- A vintage watch can add a touch of timeless elegance.
10. Sunglasses
If you’re having an outdoor or summer wedding, sunglasses are a must-have accessory.
Not only do they protect your eyes from the sun, but they also add a cool, fashionable element to your outfit. Make sure to choose a pair that complements your wedding attire and works well for photos.
Sunglasses Tips:
- Choose sunglasses that complement your face shape.
- Go for classic designs like aviators for a timeless look.
- Ensure they work with the overall colour scheme of your outfit.
11. Tie Bars
A tie bar is a simple yet elegant accessory that serves both form and function.
It keeps your tie in place and adds a sophisticated touch to your outfit. A well-chosen tie bar can add a subtle yet noticeable improvement to your overall look.
Benefits of a Tie Bar:
- Keeps your tie secure and in place.
- Adds a refined touch to your attire.
- Choose silver or gold for a classic finish.
12. Pins and Brooches
For grooms looking to add a creative and personal touch to their wedding day look, pins or brooches are a great option. These accessories can be worn on your jacket, hat, or even as part of your boutonniere.
Pin and Brooch Ideas:
- Choose symbols or designs that have personal meaning.
- Opt for classic brooches for a vintage look.
- Incorporate them into your boutonniere for added flair.
Coordinating Groom Accessories Across the Wedding Party
It’s important to ensure that your groomsmen’s accessories coordinate with your own, creating a cohesive look for the entire wedding party.
Whether it’s matching ties, complementary pocket squares, or similar boutonnières, having coordinated accessories will help your wedding party look unified and polished.
Tips for Coordinating Accessories:
- Ensure everyone’s accessories match the wedding theme.
- Use similar colours and styles for ties, socks, and pocket squares.
- Discuss accessory choices with your groomsmen to ensure consistency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right accessories for your wedding day is essential for crafting a memorable and polished appearance.
From classic ties and waistcoats to modern sunglasses and watches, each accessory plays an important role in elevating your look.
By carefully selecting and coordinating these accessories, you can achieve a style that reflects your personality and complements the overall wedding theme.
Make sure to give thought to these key pieces, and you’ll stand out just as much as the bride on your special day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do grooms wear at weddings?
The groom would wear a complete tuxedo including vest, white bow tie and tails, and shirt with striped trousers.
The very formal wear is also commonly accompanied by a top hat, walking stick, and gloves. Formal – Fitting for a “black tie” event for the groom and groomsmen.
Should the groom wear a belt?
If wearing a belt, it needs to be thinner and match your shoes. Otherwise, it will look awkward.
This is kind of a gross rule, but make sure your groom is wearing an undershirt if you are having an outdoor or a wedding in the summer. It will make your groom look less stuffy.
What color should grooms tie be?
We’ve seen the groom wear a tie in the main wedding colour while the groomsmen wear an accent colour.
Or, for a more traditional look, the groom can wear a neutral colour tie (black, white or ivory) while the groomsmen wear a tie that matches the wedding colour. For an ombre look, put everyone in a different colour tie.
Should the groom look different than the groomsmen?
No groom and groomsmen need to dress the same. It’s important, however, that everyone at least looks cohesive and adheres to a dress code. A groomsman wearing linen pants will look odd next to a groomsman in a black tuxedo.
Can a groom wear sunglasses?
Never wear shorts, flip-flops or sunglasses (exceptions are noted) to a summer wedding; always wear a tie and a suit (as long as it’s not white); cotton is less leg-ruby than linen, and I have a weakness for grooms dressed in seersucker.