Polished, yet effortless, will it be formal or casual?

Interestingly, when we think of wedding outfits we automatically consider the wedding party however this is a topic that will have all your guests talking and planning for. Perhaps even our four legged friends!

Formal weddings are elegant, structured, and traditional. They often take place in upscale venues such as ballrooms, churches, or luxury hotels. When we consider a church wedding or a civil ceremony in such a venue, it seems to follow that the theme of the wedding outfit will be a formal one. In many respects this is demonstrated by the mens outfits as a woman will chose the dress of her dreams regardless of the venue. So a formal approach could be top hat and tails, black or grey, or a three piece suit for example.

A less formal look as shown below, are still very smart but perhaps more in keeping with your plan.

It allows the groom to feel more relaxed and authentic, often fitting in with a weddings contemporary or outdoor wedding better than the formal tuxedo. It allows you to chose a less restrictive outfit which allows the groom to stay more comfortable during the day.

Here they can introduce colour if they wish through a vibrant choice of socks or a patterned tie rather than the black or grey suit. It may also be an outfit that can be worn again making it more of an investment.

Casual and relaxed while still looking smart and well groomed is possible as the gentlemen below showcase. This is a popular choice now as grooms look to prioritise comfort and personal style above rigid, traditional formal wear. It allows the groom to look smart without feeling overdressed.

The groom and his attendants may feel they are able to show their true selves rather than what might feel like a uniform or something that they would not chose to wear any other time. On the otherhand, this might be exactly why they would prefer a formal look, which gives the opportunity to 'strut their stuff'. It is a truly personal decision.

These would particularly suit a rustic barn summer wedding or a beach destination perhaps but as with everything, it is whatever you would like it to be. In 2026, anything, well almost anything, goes so be brave and be 'you'.

Some couples chose a theme that require costumes or outfits that are nothing traditional at all. If you are considering this, please remember that informing all guests as early as possible is critical, as sourcing costumes can take time and you would want to avoid anyone else needing them for another event. Deciding what the wedding party would be wearing first is a necessity and if you are thinking of a theme, such as Star Wars and believe me, it has been done, who the top table is portraying has to be decided as you wouldn't want to marry the wrong Darth Vader! (Unless of course, you believe in fate!)

It occurs to me that all of the men in the photographs featured, look ready for commitment and their attire while different, all look groomed and thought through. No one's opinion but that of you and your partner matters. 'Your day, your choices' but whatever you do chose, it is very important to remember two things.........

It must be comfortable and you must feel good.

When you feel relaxed and comfortable, no matter what outfit you chose, it will resinate in your confidence and it will shine through in your photographs.