🤵 How To Make The Groom Stand Out From Groomsmen
Planning a wedding often puts the spotlight on the bride’s dress, but the groom deserves to be more than just a background character in a matching suit.
I have spent years advising couples on wedding attire, and I have seen firsthand how a few subtle changes can transform a groom from “one of the guys” into the clear man of the hour.
This guide will show you exactly how to create a cohesive wedding party look while ensuring the groom remains the focal point of every photograph.
Quick Overview
Making a groom stand out is about balancing contrast with coordination to ensure he looks distinct without looking like he belongs at a different wedding.
- Time needed: 3 to 6 months (depending on custom tailoring needs)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- What you’ll need: A clear color palette, a trusted tailor, a budget for accessories, and a vision for the wedding theme.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Select a Distinct Suit Color
Choose a suit color for the groom that is a different shade or a completely different color than the groomsmen.
If the groomsmen are wearing light gray, the groom could wear a deep charcoal or a navy blue to create a visual anchor for the group.
For a more subtle approach, stay within the same color family but vary the intensity, such as a royal blue suit for the groom and navy for the rest of the party.
This creates a gradient effect that looks intentional and sophisticated in group portraits.
Pro Tip: Always view the fabric swatches together under natural light to ensure the colors complement each other rather than clashing.
Step 2: Incorporate a Three-Piece Suit
Add a waistcoat or vest to the groom’s ensemble while keeping the groomsmen in standard two-piece suits.
The vest adds an immediate layer of formality and helps the groom maintain a polished look even if he takes his jacket off during the reception.
You can choose a vest that matches the suit fabric for a classic look or a contrasting pattern for something more modern.
A double-breasted vest is an especially effective way to signal that the groom is the most dressed-up person in the room.
Step 3: Experiment With Fabric Textures
Differentiate the groom by choosing a fabric with a more pronounced texture or a higher-quality finish than the groomsmen’s suits.
If the groomsmen are in a standard smooth wool blend, the groom might opt for a subtle herringbone, a windowpane check, or a luxurious velvet for a winter wedding.
Texture catches the light differently and adds a sense of depth to the groom’s attire that makes him pop in high-resolution photography.
This is a great option for grooms who want to stand out without using bright colors or flashy accessories.
Step 4: Vary the Lapel Style
Select a different lapel shape for the groom to create a subtle but impactful architectural difference in his suit.
If the groomsmen are wearing standard notch lapels, the groom can wear peak lapels, which point upward toward the shoulders and create a more commanding silhouette.
For black-tie events, the groom might choose a shawl lapel while the groomsmen stick to peak lapels.
These small design choices signal a higher level of sartorial knowledge and designate the groom as the leader of the group.
Step 5: Upgrade the Neckwear
Pick a unique tie or bowtie for the groom that features a different pattern, material, or knot style than the groomsmen.
The groom could wear a solid silk tie while the groomsmen wear patterned ties in the same color family, or vice versa.
Another popular option is to have the groom wear a bowtie while the groomsmen wear long neckties, providing a clear visual distinction at eye level.
Ensure the groom’s neckwear is made of a premium material like heavy silk or knitted wool to give it a more luxurious appearance.
Pro Tip: A unique tie knot, like the Eldredge or Trinity, can add a personal touch, but keep it simple if the suit itself is already very detailed.
Step 6: Customize the Boutonniere
Work with your florist to design a larger or more intricate floral arrangement for the groom’s lapel.
The groom’s boutonniere should incorporate elements from the bride’s bouquet that the groomsmen’s versions do not have.
You can also use different colors; for instance, the groom could have a white rose while the groomsmen have smaller sprigs of greenery or succulents.
This is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to make the groom look special and tied directly to the bride’s aesthetic.
Step 7: Invest in Premium Footwear
Choose a higher grade of leather or a different style of shoe for the groom compared to the rest of the wedding party.
While the groomsmen might wear standard brown derbies, the groom could opt for wholecut oxfords or elegant loafers with a unique patina.
The color of the groom’s shoes can also be a shade darker or lighter to provide contrast against his trouser hem.
Well-polished, high-quality shoes are often the first thing people notice when a man is dressed in a suit, so do not overlook this detail.
Step 8: Focus on Bespoke Tailoring
Ensure the groom’s suit is tailored to perfection, ideally through a made-to-measure or bespoke process.
While the groomsmen may use rental suits that have a more generic fit, the groom’s suit should hug his shoulders and waist perfectly.
A perfectly fitted suit makes any man look more confident and prominent, which naturally draws the eye toward him.
Custom details like functional sleeve buttons (surgeon’s cuffs) or personalized embroidery inside the jacket can also make the groom feel more distinguished.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Matching the Groom and Groomsmen Exactly
The biggest mistake is having everyone in the wedding party wear the exact same suit, tie, and shoes. While this creates a uniform look, it makes the groom blend into the background, especially in large groups. It can make the groom look like just another member of the staff rather than the guest of honor.
Clashing With the Wedding Theme
In an effort to stand out, some grooms choose colors or styles that completely ignore the overall wedding aesthetic. If the wedding is a rustic outdoor event, a shiny tuxedo will look out of place even if it makes the groom stand out. Always ensure the “stand out” elements still harmonize with the venue and the bride’s level of formality.
Over-accessorizing the Groom
Adding a different tie, a vest, a unique boutonniere, and flashy jewelry all at once can become overwhelming. When too many elements are competing for attention, the groom can look cluttered rather than stylish. Pick two or three key areas to differentiate and keep the rest of the look clean and classic.
Troubleshooting
The Groomsmen Already Bought Their Suits
If the groomsmen have already secured their attire, focus on the accessories to differentiate the groom. You can change the groom’s tie, pocket square, and boutonniere at the last minute without requiring the groomsmen to change anything. Adding a vest that coordinates with their suits is also a quick way to elevate the groom’s look without a full suit replacement.
The Groom Looks Too Formal Compared to the Bride
Sometimes the groom can stand out so much that he appears more formal than the bride, which creates a visual imbalance. If the bride is wearing a simple bohemian lace dress, the groom should avoid a stiff tuxedo with a wing-collar shirt. Ensure the groom’s “stand out” features move him toward the bride’s style rather than away from it.
Budget Constraints for Custom Attire
If a custom suit is not in the budget, focus on the fit of an off-the-rack suit. Take a standard suit to a high-end tailor to have the sleeves, waist, and trousers adjusted specifically for the groom’s body. A $400 suit that fits perfectly will always look more expensive and prominent than a $2,000 suit that is too baggy.
Key Takeaways
- Use color contrast by choosing a different shade or a complementary color for the groom’s suit.
- Incorporate a waistcoat or vest to add a layer of formality that the groomsmen lack.
- Differentiate through fabric textures like tweed, velvet, or high-twist wool to add visual depth.
- Upgrade accessories like ties, shoes, and boutonnieres to create subtle points of distinction.
- Prioritize expert tailoring for the groom to ensure his silhouette is the most polished in the group.
- Maintain a balance where the groom looks like part of the group but remains the clear focal point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should the groom match the bridesmaids?
The groom does not need to match the bridesmaids’ dress colors exactly. It is often better if he coordinates with them by using a pocket square or tie in a similar tone while keeping his suit a neutral color. Matching too closely can sometimes look a bit dated or overly “prom-like” rather than sophisticated.
Can the groom wear a tuxedo if the groomsmen wear suits?
Yes, this is a very common and effective way to make the groom stand out. As long as the suits the groomsmen wear are dark and formal, like black or midnight navy, the groom in a tuxedo will look like the elevated version of the group. Just ensure the bride’s attire is equally formal to match the tuxedo’s vibe.
Should the groom’s pocket square match his tie?
The groom’s pocket square should generally complement his tie rather than match it perfectly in pattern and fabric. For the groom to stand out, he might choose a unique fold or a high-quality silk pocket square that features a different pattern than the groomsmen’s pocket squares. This adds a touch of effortless style that sets him apart.
Is it okay for the groom to wear a different brand of suit?
It is perfectly fine for the groom to wear a different brand, especially if he is opting for a higher-end or custom option. The key is to ensure the colors are close enough that they don’t clash in photos. If the groomsmen are in “charcoal” from one brand, the groom’s “charcoal” from another brand should be compared side-by-side to check for undertones.
Our Top Recommended Finds
- Magnetic Boutonniere Holders: These prevent pins from damaging expensive suit lapels and keep the flowers perfectly upright all day.
- Cedar Shoe Trees: Essential for keeping the groom’s high-quality leather shoes in perfect shape and moisture-free before the big day.
- Personalized Collar Stays: A subtle way to keep the groom’s shirt collar crisp while adding a hidden sentimental message or the wedding date.
Polishing Your Wedding Day Presence
Once you have selected the perfect attire, the next step is to coordinate the grooming and final details. Consider scheduling a professional hot towel shave or a premium haircut a few days before the wedding to complement the upgraded wardrobe.
You might also want to look into how to coordinate the groom’s watch or cufflinks with the overall metal tones of the wedding. Small details like the metal of a watch matching the belt buckle and wedding band can create a truly cohesive and high-end look.
Start looking at fabric swatches today and talk to your tailor about which lapel and vest options will work best for your body type. Taking these steps now ensures that when the wedding day arrives, you will feel like the most confident version of yourself.
