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Men's Wedding Guest Attire: What to Wear for Formal & Casual Weddings

Men’s Wedding Guest Attire

Wedding guest attire for men should conform to the request of the bride and groom, which is often listed on their wedding invitation as formal, casual, black tie, or white tie. Evening weddings tend to be more formal, usually taking place after 5:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m., and tuxedos or dark suits are expected.

Men can wear a lighter-colored suit to a casual wedding during the day or a beach-themed wedding. Men’s wedding attire can reflect the wedding themes, location, and your personal style when it's a more casual event.

What Should Men Wear to Formal and Casual Weddings?

Choices men have for wedding attire can include black tie, white tie, black tie optional, cocktail attire, formal wear, or casual attire. You should follow what the wedding invitation says or ask a member of the wedding party, preferably the bride or groom, if you’re unsure.

When in doubt, wear more formal wedding attire so you won’t feel underdressed compared to other guests. The weight of the fabric for your suit can match the season to help you stay cool or provide extra formality and warmth when needed.

Men’s Black Tie Wedding Attire

Black tie wedding attire has a formal dress code that requires a tuxedo. It includes a black or midnight blue tuxedo jacket, matching trousers with satin side stripes, and a classic white shirt with a wing or spread collared shirt.

A black bow tie is essential, along with black patent leather shoes. A black vest or white waistcoat, cummerbund, and a pocket square can add further elegance. The black tie dress code is typically reserved for formal weddings and should convey dignity and taste at any black tie event.

Men’s Casual Wedding Attire

Men's casual wedding wear should be relaxed yet presentable. Dress pants or chinos look great with a dress shirt. A sport coat or lightweight suit jacket can complete the look without being overly formal.

Ties are optional, but still avoid trying to wear jeans or a T-shirt. Instead, opt for nice pair of loafers or polished dress shoes to elevate the outfit. Linen, cotton, or other breathable fabrics are perfect for beach and afternoon weddings. Comfort and wedding attire etiquette should work together to keep your personal style intact.

Formal Wedding Attire for Men

If the wedding invitation doesn’t say black tie, men can either wear a suit, ideally in darker tones, or upgrade to a tuxedo for extra formality. If the invitation says “black tie optional,” a tuxedo is appropriate but not required, and a dark suit with a white shirt is completely acceptable.

Do not pair casual footwear like sneakers or sandals—stick with classic dress shoes for any formal wedding attire.

man wearing blue jacket and white dress shirt

Cocktail Wedding Attire for Men

Men’s wedding attire for a cocktail wedding leaves room for a fun way to let your personality shine. A Twillory performance suit in dark colors like charcoal, deep gray, or navy is your best bet.

Consider pairing the suit with a Twillory dress shirt and dark tie, along with accessories like a pocket square or bow tie. These types of styling tips let you stand out without breaking the wedding dress code. Bright colors or textured fabrics can also add your own touch.

What to Wear to Summer Weddings

During warm months, men should think of fabric and fit as top priorities. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are key to help you stay cool. A light suit in beige or light blue works perfectly for daytime weddings.

In the evening, darker suits made of summery blends still hold up in heat. Pair your outfit with a white shirt, light dress shoes, and make sure the formality matches the special occasion.

What to Wear to Fall Weddings

For fall, stick with dark colors and thicker textured fabrics. A dark suit in deep navy or charcoal with a warm-toned tie or pocket square (think gold or burgundy) is a timeless move.

Layer with a dinner jacket or vest for outdoor settings. Fall wedding attire lets you lean into seasonality while staying aligned with formal wear.

What to Wear to Spring Weddings

When spring is in the air, a suit made of hyper-breathable performance fabric is a good choice for a wedding. If the wedding is outside, bring along a tailored Twillory performance jacket to look your best because it won’t wrinkle. A pastel tie or pocket square in a spring-inspired hue can ensure you make a good impression. 

What to Wear to a Beach Wedding

For a beach wedding, men's wedding outfits should balance elegance with the relaxed outdoor setting. A cotton or linen, light-colored air suit can help you stay cool and comfortable. Combine it with a white buttoned-down or pastel shirt. Sunglasses can complement your look so you look stylish.

Keep in mind the couple’s dress code to guide your choices. Ties are frequently optional at beach weddings but you might add a pocket square as a personal touch.

man wearing air khaki blazer and white dress shirt

What to Wear to a No Dress Code Wedding

If a dress code isn’t specified on the wedding invitation, err on the side of formality and wear a dark suit, a white dress shirt, and a tie. If you’re in doubt, ask the bride or groom, but dressing slightly more formally is always a respectful choice. Choose Twillory suits and dress shirts to make sure you're comfortable and stylish throughout the wedding and reception.

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