Dressing the Part: Suits vs. Tuxedos for Groomsmen Attire

Dimitra’s Main Points:

• Tuxedos are more formal, featuring satin accents, and are ideal for black-tie events.
• Suits offer more versatility for semi-formal or modern celebrations
• The groom can and should wear something slightly different from the groomsmen to stand out, like a tux, while the groomsmen wear suits or bowties versus long ties.
• Coordinate groomsmen’s outfits with consistent colors, styles, or accessories, and consider relaxed options like no ties or no jackets for casual settings.
• Groomsmen should secure suits or tuxedos at least 3 months in advance to allow for fittings and adjustments, which is critically important during peak wedding season.

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Weddings are a celebration of enduring love, and a chance to showcase a little or a lot of your personal style. While the bridesmaids often steal the spotlight in fashion discussions, choosing the right groom and groomsmen’s outfits can also set the tone for the event. One of the most pressing style dilemmas we encounter frequently is suits vs. tuxedos.

What’s the big difference? How do you choose what’s best for your big day? Should you match or be distinct?

Today, we’ll share the difference between a tux and a suit so you can confidently choose the one that will perfectly style and coordinate you for your wedding party.

The Style Showdown: What Sets Suits and Tuxedos Apart

It’s incredibly easy at first glance to think suits and tuxedos look similar, but there are key differences, and they’re all in the details.

A tuxedo is the embodiment of black-tie elegance, typically featuring satin details on the lapels or vest and patent leather shoes.

A suit offers more versatility, without satin accents, can be worn with or without a tie, and is often styled with a dress shirt and leather shoes. Suits are appropriate for both formal and semi-formal events and themes.

Dimitra Style Tip: When you are considering ‘do groomsmen wear tuxedos or suits?’, ask yourself one critical question: What’s the dress code for the wedding?

If it’s formal or black-tie, tuxedos are generally the right choice. If it’s more relaxed, semi-formal with a modern vibe, a classic suit in navy, charcoal, or even a soft tan might strike the right balance.

Matching or Distinct? Groom vs. Groomsmen Looks

Many grooms frequently wonder, "Does the groom wear a different suit from the groomsmen?" The answer is yes, and he can and often should.

Like the bride, the groom is the centerpiece in a beautiful ceremony. While the groomsmen's outfits should complement the overall color palette and style of the wedding, the groom’s look deserves a touch of distinction for their big day, too. This could mean upgrading the tuxedo while the groomsmen wear suits in the same shade, or choosing a different jacket style, unique tie, or patterned boutonnière.

For another example, if the groom is wearing a sleek black tuxedo with a bow tie, his groomsmen could don matching black suits with standard ties. This slight, yet subtle difference keeps the group cohesive while allowing the groom to express their style.

Crew Coordination: Tips for Polished Groomsmen

Wondering just how to coordinate groomsmen outfits without creating a fashion faux pas? Start with consistency. What does that mean? For example, choose matching colors, fabrics, and cuts across the board for a streamlined appearance in photos and in person.

Here are a few expert Dimitra Tips:

• Keep one detail uniform. This could be the jacket color, style, and color of tie, or lapel types. Choose one key design element to unify the entire group.
• Use accessories thoughtfully. Coordinate pocket square patterns and colors, suspenders, or even socks to add a bit of fun without sacrificing formality.
• Consider body types. Slim, modern, and classic cuts all fit differently. Making sure everyone feels confident and comfortable will positively influence the entire experience.

If you prefer groomsmen without ties or even outfits without jackets, that’s okay, too. Remember to double-check that the more relaxed fit matches your venue and wedding theme.

Dimitra Season Style Tip: In the warmer months, linen vests and open collars look sharp for beach or garden weddings.

Bow Ties, Long Ties, Or No Ties at All?

Another common question we encounter frequently is: Can the groom wear a bow tie and groomsmen wear ties? The answer is, of course, absolutely! In fact, this is often an easy, chic means to distinguish the groom while keeping the entire party in fashionable sync. For example, a groom wearing an iconic black bow tie stands out next to his groomsmen in long matching red ties.

Going no-tie? You can still create a formal ambience when you pair the no-tie look with sharp tailoring and stunning boutonnières. Groomsmen no-tie silhouettes are currently trending, especially for those creating outdoor or destination weddings where comfort and significant style overlap.

Dimitra Expert Tip: Choose ties in the same color family or that complement the wedding’s color palette.

Timing Is Still Everything: When to Secure Suits or Tuxedos

We know that we have mentioned that timing is everything before, but there’s a very good reason—it’s one of the most easily overlooked details in wedding planning and can become challenging to fix in short notice. This is doubly true during peak wedding season, and many tailors may be booked months in advance.

How far in advance should groomsmen get their suits? To begin the process, aim for at least three months in advance. This will give you the room you need for fittings, alterations, and shipping if necessary. Should you be renting, earlier is better during peak season.

Dimitra Designs offers a wide range of designer tuxedos and suits, from modern slim fit to timeless classic cuts, every groom or groomsman will find their perfect fit. From elegant ballroom gatherings to rustic vineyard ceremonies, the proper fit comes with a well-timed appointment.

Choosing What’s Right for You on Your Wedding Day

What’s the right choice between suits vs. tuxedos on the wedding day? The right choice is one where you’ve considered all the unique details tailored to you, such as:

• Formality. Tuxedos are instantly considered perfect for black-tie, formal events, while suits are more flexible for formal and semi-formal.
• Season and Venue. Lightweight suit materials shine in outdoor venues during warmer months, while tuxedos still turn heads in grander halls or indoor venues.
• Style Intent. Are you going for timeless, old Hollywood glamor? Go for a tux! If sleek, minimalistic, modern cuts are more to your taste, stick to a suit.
• Groom Distinction. Don’t abandon elevating the groom’s look with subtle, striking differences.
• Coordination. Keep it cohesive with shared elements like color, accessories, or lapel style.

Dress the Part, Dress Dimitra Designs, Confidently

A wedding day is a tale, woven and told in love, laughter, cheers, and the occasional tear or two, with impeccable fashion for unforgettable memories and photos for years to come. Whether you envision classic, refined, or contemporary and relaxed, when you know the difference between a tux and a suit, you can confidently make refined style choices that you know are right for you.

Remember, when deciding whether the groom or the groomsmen should wear tuxedos or suits, the best choice is the one that suits your theme, timeline, and personality.

When you’re ready to take the next step to suit yourself or your crew up in sophistication and eye-catching taste, explore Dimitra Design’s hand-selected collection of designer tuxedos and suits. Every piece is chosen for its unparalleled craftsmanship, elegance, and enduring appeal to help your wedding party look and feel as memorable as the day itself.

For the perfect fit, shop Dimitra’s tuxedos and bring your wedding day style to a height that will have friends and family talking about it for decades.