Photo: Courtesy of Jos. A. Bank
The Spring 2015 Bridal Fashion Week proved just how many style options there are for brides — off-the-shoulder sleeves for a bride who wants to show off a little more skin, playful colors for a bride who want to skirt tradition, and so on. But contrary to popular belief, grooms can get in on the personal wedding fashion fun, too. "Gone are the days when all a groom had to do was don a standard black tux with a bow tie and cummerbund," says Christina Steinbrenner, director of tuxedo marketing for Jos. A. Bank.
"No two grooms are alike, and therefore all tuxedos shouldn't look the same," she adds. "Today there are so many options for groom's attire that your guy will have no problem finding just the right look to suit his personality." Better yet, a groom can add unique elements like a pocket square or ascot to blend with a wedding's style or theme. With Steinbrenner's help, we assembled five looks for five different kinds of grooms (and weddings).
The Traditionalist: You know the saying — if it ain't broke, don't fix it. But there's no saying that dictates that the classics can't get an update. A black tux is fool-proof for a groom planning a formal or black-tie wedding, but it's easy to personalize the standard look. "For an updated take on the traditional black tux, opt for a slim fit tuxedo with a slim notch lapel," says Steinbrenner. "For a pop of color, add a perfectly folded pocket square to add that finishing touch. And have fun learning different folds. You can try a straight fold, a corner fold (with the point facing up), the puff, or a fan. Just don't go too crazy — it should be an accent, not a distraction."
The Modern Guy: Contemporary weddings often reflect current trends, so the modern groom's look should as well. If he's hosting a casual daytime affair at a vineyard or a vintage, DIY-infused event, ditch the basic black tux says Steinbrenner. "Tuxedos now come in a spectrum of colors including white, tan, brown, and even slate blue," she says. Though, the most popular tuxedo color right now is grey. "Choose a lighter grey tux for a daytime or outdoor event, or something a little darker for an evening or more formal wedding. For a three-piece look, try pairing it with a matching grey vest."
The Romantic: "He wooed you with candlelight dinners and music, and proposed with the words 'Marry Me?' spelled out in rose petals," Steinbrenner says of this kind of groom. Naturally, his wedding and his outfit should reflect his heartfelt disposition. For that reason, an all-out tuxedo with the trimmings is the best way to convey his view of romance. "Go all out with tails, a cummerbund and bow tie," Steinbrenner recommends. "If your event is very formal, consider going white tie, but make sure your guests know this! Remember, the pleats on a cummerbund should always face up."
The Outdoorsman: Even if Duck Dynasty isn't his favorite show, a groom that loves the outdoors shouldn't be afraid to flaunt his nature-embracing side. A tux may seem too buttoned-up for the woodsy wedding this type of groom would likely host, but Steinbrenner advises that the grizzliest of men can still make it work. "Try a tux with a camo lapel," she suggests. "If he's really into the look, you can even try matching some camo accessories with it. We love the look of a blaze orange tie, though."
The Cool, Laid Back Guy: Despite how adaptable a tux can be, it truly isn't for everyone. Sometimes, a low-key groom wants a suit to match his personality, and his calm, intimate wedding. For these guys, Steinbrenner recommends a jacketless look, perhaps by pairing a vest with matching pants. "Want a completely monochromatic look? Try matching a tie to it as well," she adds.
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