How to Make Sure Your Groomsmen Look Their Best

Tips and tricks for renting a suit or tuxedo.

While we certainly understand why the majority of the focus is on bridesmaid dresses when it comes to wedding-party fashion, that doesn’t mean groomsmen should be completely left out in the cold!

groom-with-best-man-on-chair-and-standing-groomsmen
Photo: Michael Carr Photography

While we certainly understand why the majority of the focus is on bridesmaid dresses when it comes to wedding-party fashion, that doesn’t mean groomsmen should be completely left out in the cold! Mismatched bridesmaid gowns may be all the rage at the moment, but groomsmen are still generally expected to match. 

Sometimes the male attendants have their own similar suits that can be worn for the event, but it’s much more common for the men to rent their outfits for the big day – especially if everyone is wearing a tux. Of course, just as with bridesmaids, it can be difficult to organize the group to make sure every attendant gets the right fit. Since brides have enough on their plate without having to direct the wedding party as well, we have provided a list of tips to help make sure the groomsmen wind up in the perfect ensembles for the celebration. 

- Find a formalwear rental store with updated inventory. Not only will they have the latest fashions, but the pieces will also be in better condition.
- Chains or online rental services are a good option if the groomsmen are spread out all over the country. However, if everyone is in the same city, consider a local shop with more specialized service.
- The store should be able to rent or sell the accessories you’ll be using as well.
- If you plan for there to be color coordination with ties, shirts, or pocket squares, you should wait until the bridesmaid dresses are chosen before selecting the styles. The gowns may even affect which shade you go with for the suits themselves.
- Consider allowing the groomsmen to choose the fit that best flatters them.
- Be sure to reserve at least three months in advance.
- Give a deadline for measurements that allows for buffer time in case someone misses it. The groom can call the shop after the faux "deadline" to find out if the groomsmen have completed the task before it’s too late.
- Update a timeless look with modern accessories instead of choosing a wild color or style that will look as outdated as the powder blue suits of the 1970s.

For more advice, see 10 style tips for the perfect groom outfit and discover seven shoe options for fashion-forward grooms.