Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life. Every detail, from the floral arrangements to the cake, comes together to tell your unique love story. One of the most important—and fun—details is ensuring your and your partner's outfits look stunning together. After all, you’ll be side-by-side all day, and those photos will last a lifetime.
Coordinating your wedding attire is about creating a harmonious and visually appealing look that reflects both your personalities and the overall theme of your big day. It's not about being overly matchy-matchy, but about creating a cohesive style. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for perfect bride and groom outfit coordination, making sure you both shine.
Understanding Wedding Dress Styles
First things first, let's talk about your dress. The style of your wedding gown sets the tone for the entire bridal party's look, especially your groom's. Here are some popular styles to consider:
- Ball Gown: This is the fairytale dress! With a fitted bodice and a full, dramatic skirt, it’s perfect for a formal, traditional wedding.
- A-Line: This universally flattering style has a fitted top that gradually flares out from the waist, resembling the letter 'A'. It's a classic choice that works for almost any wedding theme.
- Mermaid/Trumpet: These styles are fitted through the body and flare out at or below the knee. They're glamorous and modern, ideal for a bride who wants to show off her figure.
- Sheath/Column: This style flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. It's simple, elegant, and perfect for a more casual or minimalist wedding.
- Boho/Chic: Often featuring lace, flowy fabrics, and relaxed silhouettes, these dresses are perfect for rustic, beach, or outdoor weddings.
The formality and style of your dress will heavily influence the groom's attire. A grand ball gown pairs beautifully with a classic tuxedo, while a simple sheath dress might call for a more relaxed suit.
Groom's Attire Options
Once you have an idea of your dress style, it's time to think about what your groom will wear. His outfit should complement yours in formality and style.
- Tuxedo: The ultimate in formal wear. A classic black tuxedo is timeless and sophisticated, making it a perfect match for a formal ball gown or a glamorous mermaid dress. For a modern twist, consider a navy or charcoal tux.
- Suit: Suits are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down. A three-piece suit (with a vest) feels more formal than a two-piece. The color can range from traditional black, gray, or navy to lighter shades like tan or light blue for a more casual or destination wedding.
- Casual Options: For a laid-back, rustic, or beach wedding, the groom can opt for something less formal. Think dress pants with a crisp button-down shirt and suspenders, or even a nice pair of chinos with a blazer.
Color Coordination Tips
Color is one of the easiest ways to tie your two looks together! You don't need to wear the exact same colors, but they should complement each other.
- Match the Whites: If your dress is a specific shade of white (like ivory, cream, or champagne), make sure the groom’s shirt matches. A stark white shirt next to an ivory dress can make the dress look dull or dirty in photos. Bring a fabric swatch of your dress when shopping for his shirt to get the perfect match.
- Complementary Colors: Use the color wheel for inspiration. If your wedding has accent colors, incorporate them into the groom's accessories. A burgundy tie can complement a bride's bouquet, or a navy pocket square can pick up on the color of your shoes.
- Consider the Season: The time of year can also guide your color choices. Rich, deep colors like burgundy, navy, and forest green are beautiful for fall and winter weddings. Lighter colors like pastels, tans, and light grays are perfect for spring and summer.
Pairing Fabrics and Textures
Mixing and matching fabrics and textures adds depth and interest to your coordinated outfits. The key is to create balance.
- Formal Fabrics: If your dress is made of luxurious fabrics like satin, mikado, or intricate lace, the groom’s attire should match that level of formality. Think a fine wool tuxedo or a high-quality suit.
- Casual Fabrics: For a more relaxed wedding, a bride in a cotton lace or chiffon dress would pair beautifully with a groom in a linen or tweed suit. These lighter, more textured fabrics create a cohesive, casual vibe.
- Texture Balance: Avoid overwhelming textures. If your dress is heavily embellished with beading or lace, a simple, smooth fabric for the groom's suit will create a nice contrast and let your dress be the star.
Aligning with Your Wedding Theme
Your wedding theme is the thread that ties every element together, including your outfits.
- Formal/Classic: For a black-tie affair in a grand ballroom, a classic tuxedo and a traditional ball gown or A-line dress are the perfect combination.
- Rustic/Boho: Planning a wedding in a barn or a forest? A flowy, lace dress for the bride pairs wonderfully with the groom in a tweed suit, suspenders, or even a stylish vest and trousers combo.
- Beach/Destination: Lightweight fabrics are your best friend. A simple sheath or chiffon dress for the bride complements a groom in a light-colored linen suit or tan trousers with a white button-down.
- Modern/Minimalist: For a chic city wedding, a sleek, simple dress for the bride looks incredible next to a groom in a sharply tailored, slim-fit suit in a contemporary color like charcoal or navy.
Don't Forget the Accessories!
Accessories are the finishing touches that can really pull your looks together.
- Ties and Pocket Squares: These are easy ways to incorporate your wedding colors into the groom's outfit. The pattern and fabric can also complement the bride's dress.
- Boutonnière: The groom's boutonnière should be a smaller version of the bride's bouquet, using some of the same flowers and greenery.
- Cufflinks and Jewelry: The metal of the groom's cufflinks, watch, and tie bar can match the bride's jewelry. If you’re wearing gold, he can wear gold, too!
- Shoes: The style of your shoes should match the formality of your outfits. Formal dress shoes for him and elegant heels or flats for you will complete a classic look. For a more casual wedding, feel free to have fun with boots, loafers, or even stylish sneakers.
Your Perfect Match
Coordinating your wedding outfits is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your shared style as a couple. By considering the style of your dress, the formality of the event, and your wedding theme, you can create a look that is both beautiful and uniquely you.
Remember to communicate with each other throughout the process and have fun with it! These are the outfits you'll wear as you start your new life together, so make them special. With a little planning, you'll both look and feel your absolute best on your wedding day.
If you're still searching for your dream wedding dress, book your appointment with Belle Amour Bridal—we offer a stunning collection of all sizes and designs. Plus, Belle Amour Bridal has the perfect accessories to tie your entire look together beautifully!