The conversation around groomsmen suits usually follows a predictable pattern. First, there’s the enthusiasm – visions of a perfectly coordinated wedding party, all sharp tailoring and shiny shoes. Then, reality sets in. One groomsman already owns a suit that they want to wear. Another lives on the other side of the planet and can’t make it to the fitting. Someone asks who’s paying. Suddenly, it’s less about aesthetics and more about logistics.

Deciding what your groomsmen should wear – and who foots the bill – can be a minefield. But get it right, and the wedding photos will look seamless. Get it wrong, and you’ll spend the day standing next to a best man in a rental suit that’s two sizes too big. Here’s everything you need to know to keep things stylish, simple, and, ideally, free of unnecessary arguments.

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Who pays for groomsmen suits?

There’s no set rule on who covers the cost of groomsmen suits, but there are a few common approaches:

  • The groom pays – A generous option, but it can be expensive. If you’re asking your groomsmen to wear a specific suit, particularly one that isn’t very versatile, covering the cost makes sense.
  • The groomsmen pay – The most common approach. If you go down this route, make sure the suit is affordable and something they might wear again.
  • Renting suits – A cost-effective solution, especially for formal or black-tie weddings. Either the groom or the groomsmen can cover the rental fee, depending on budget.
  • A mix-and-match approach – If you’re not too concerned about uniformity, giving your groomsmen a colour and fabric guideline (e.g. navy suits, grey wool suits) and letting them wear what they already own is an easy way to keep costs low.

Whatever approach you take, be clear about expectations early on to avoid any awkward conversations later.

Choosing the right groomsmen suits

Beyond cost, the most important factor is making sure the suits complement the wedding setting and the groom’s outfit. A black-tie wedding calls for classic tailoring – black tuxedos with bow ties or midnight blue dinner jackets. A summer wedding might work better with lightweight fabrics like linen or unstructured tailoring. Rustic weddings lean towards textured fabrics like tweed or relaxed earth-tone suits.

Fit is just as important as style. Even a well-chosen suit can look off if it’s too tight or too loose. If the budget allows, getting suits tailored or adjusted ensures everyone looks sharp.

Matching suits to the wedding style

Formal or black-tie weddings

For a traditional or black-tie wedding, the best option is a black tuxedo or a midnight blue dinner jacket. Groomsmen should wear a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and patent leather shoes for a sharp, cohesive look. A well-tailored tuxedo is timeless and suits any classic wedding venue, from grand ballrooms to historic estates.

Modern or minimalist weddings

For a sleek, contemporary wedding, dark, neutral suits work best. Charcoal grey, navy blue, or deep olive green suits create a clean, understated look. Groomsmen can wear a tie in a tonal shade or keep things relaxed with an open-collar shirt. Accessories should be minimal – no flashy pocket squares or overly bold colours.

Smart but relaxed weddings

If the wedding is stylish but informal, a lightweight tailored suit is a good choice. Unstructured blazers, loafers, and open-collar shirts fit the bill. Colours like light grey, soft blue, or beige work well for a fresh, relaxed aesthetic. This approach allows for a more natural, effortless feel while keeping things coordinated.

Rustic or outdoor weddings

For a countryside or outdoor setting, earthy tones and textured fabrics work well. Tweed blazers, brown shoes, and relaxed tailoring suit the surroundings. Mix-and-match outfits can work here, with groomsmen wearing slightly different shades of the same colour family to create a natural, organic feel.

Beach or destination weddings

For a beach wedding, lightweight linen or cotton suits in beige, tan, or pastel shades keep things cool while looking sharp. Loafers or even smart espadrilles work instead of formal dress shoes. A tie-free look with an open-neck white or light blue shirt feels relaxed but still put-together.

Black groomsmen suits

A timeless, fail-safe choice for formal weddings. Black suits or tuxedos always look polished and work well with crisp white shirts, black ties or bow ties, and patent leather shoes. If you want to add some character, a velvet tuxedo jacket or a subtle pattern like herringbone can break up the monotony.

Grey groomsmen suits

Versatile and easy to wear, grey suits work for almost any wedding style. Light grey is great for summer weddings, paired with white or pastel shirts. Charcoal grey is a more formal alternative, ideal for evening weddings or colder months. Either way, they pair well with black or brown shoes, depending on the formality.

Blue groomsmen suits

A stylish alternative to black, blue suits are a popular choice. Navy is the safest option, working with both casual and formal dress codes. It pairs well with brown shoes and white shirts, but paler blues can also be a great choice for summer weddings. Midnight blue is a refined alternative to black, particularly for evening receptions.

Tan groomsmen suits

Perfect for outdoor, destination or summer weddings. Tan suits are relaxed but still smart, pairing well with white or soft blue shirts and loafers. A linen version keeps things breathable in hot weather, while a wool blend adds structure for a more traditional look.

Green groomsmen suits

A more contemporary option, green suits have gained popularity in recent years. Darker shades like forest green work well for winter weddings, while olive green suits suit spring or summer ceremonies. Paired with neutral accessories and brown shoes, they make a stylish alternative to the usual greys and blues.

Should you buy or rent groomsmen suits?

The decision to buy or rent comes down to formality and budget. If the wedding is black tie or highly formal, renting tuxedos can be the most practical option – especially if the groomsmen aren’t likely to wear them again. If the dress code is more relaxed, buying suits makes more sense, particularly if they’re versatile enough to be worn for other occasions.

Cost is another factor. Rentals are usually cheaper upfront but come with strict return policies and limited customisation. Buying is more expensive, but if the suits are well-chosen, they can last for years. Some brands offer discounts for wedding parties, so it’s worth shopping around.

Groomsmen suit accessories: the finishing touches

Once the suits are sorted, accessories help pull the look together. Matching ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks create a cohesive look without making the groomsmen feel like they’re in uniform. Shoes should match the formality of the suit – patent leather for tuxedos, polished leather for classic tailoring, and suede or loafers for more relaxed styles.

If you want to gift your groomsmen something practical, consider buying them coordinating ties, socks, or even personalised cufflinks as a keepsake from the day.

Next up: 10 of the best wedding shoes for men in 2025.