Quick Answer: The Most Important Wedding Guest Rules for Men
Do: follow the dress code, wear a well-fitting suit when in doubt, choose a collared shirt and keep accessories simple.
Don't: wear white, outshine the wedding party, wear a t-shirt or jeans (unless invited to), or show up in worn-out shoes.
Dress codes have changed a lot. Streetwear and tailoring borrow from each other, and plenty of weddings are more relaxed than they used to be. But a few rules still hold, and following them means you'll look right in every photo. Here are the essential do's and don'ts for men.
Do: Read the Dress Code Carefully
The invitation is your best guide. "Black tie," "semi-formal," "cocktail" and "casual" each mean something specific. Our full wedding dress code guide breaks them all down.
Don't guess when the dress code is unusual, like "garden chic" or a themed wedding. Ask the couple or someone in the wedding party. They'll appreciate it.
Do: Wear a Suit When in Doubt
A well-fitting suit is the safe answer for almost any wedding. You can adjust the formality with the colour and your accessories:
- More formal: navy, charcoal or black with a silk tie
- Daytime or summer: light grey, tan or light blue in a lightweight fabric
Don't outshine the wedding party. Skip the head-to-toe statement look, and never wear a tuxedo if the groom isn't. Read more on dressing well without upstaging the couple.
Do: Wear a Collared Shirt
A crisp dress shirt is non-negotiable for most weddings. If you're worried about heat, choose a breathable or stretch dress shirt and wear a moisture-wicking undershirt.
Don't wear a t-shirt under a blazer or sport jacket unless the dress code is truly casual and the couple has given you the go-ahead. And don't wear jeans unless the invitation says denim is welcome.
Do: Get the Fit Right
Your jacket sleeves should show a little shirt cuff, your shoulders should sit flat and your trousers should break cleanly at the shoe. A great fit makes an affordable suit look expensive. See our suit fit rules.
Don't wear a suit that's too tight to sit or dance in, or so loose it looks borrowed.
Do: Accessorize With Purpose
One or two thoughtful details finish your look: a pocket square, a tie bar, cufflinks or a lapel pin. Coordinate your tie and pocket square so they complement each other.
Don't overdo it. Too many flashy accessories draw attention away from the couple.
Do: Choose the Right Shoes
Polished leather oxfords in black or cognac are right for almost every wedding. Match your belt to your shoes.
Don't wear scuffed or worn-out shoes, and only wear sneakers if the dress code allows it. If it does, see how to wear sneakers to a wedding.
Do: Avoid White
White is traditionally reserved for the couple. A white dress shirt is fine, but skip white suits, jackets and pants as a guest. Learn more in can men wear white to a wedding?
FAQ
What is appropriate wedding guest attire for men?
For most weddings, a suit in a classic colour, a collared dress shirt, a tie and leather dress shoes. Adjust based on the dress code.
Can a man wear a black suit to a wedding?
Yes. A black suit is appropriate for evening and formal weddings. For daytime, navy or grey often feels more seasonal.
Is it rude to wear jeans to a wedding?
Unless the couple has said jeans are welcome, yes. Choose dress pants or chinos instead.
What should a man wear to a wedding as a guest?
A man should wear a suit in navy, grey or charcoal with a collared dress shirt, a tie and leather dress shoes, unless the invitation says otherwise. Match the formality to the dress code, and avoid white or anything that could upstage the couple.
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