Art of Groom Style by Stephen Doig

The art of groom style

Stephen Doig of The Telegraph, pops the question: how should a man dress on his wedding day? Be it a classic black tux or a well-accessorised suit, the options prove formal needn’t mean fussy.

When it comes to wedding style, a groom can reliably breathe a sigh of relief that come the big day, his bride will be the focus of attention (unless, of course, he’s marrying another groom). But even if his role is to look polished, capable and proudly handsome, it’s one that requires a degree of consideration and refinement. For every aspiring Steve McQueen, there’s a fellow in stiff, ceremonial morning tails looking like a Downton Abbey extra or vicar in a Jane Austen BBC adaptation.

The most important style ethos of any groom is to look comfortable, relaxed and effortless – it’s the bride’s prerogative to have a dress that requires fuss and ceremony. The groom’s attire should be a more low-key affair.

George Clooney Wedding Style, London Sock Company

Happily, today’s well-attired groom and his entourage of ushers and best men (it’s become commonplace to have more than one) have a host of stylistic flourishes to lend elan. The first port of call for a groom looking to share a token of his appreciation with the gentlemen helping him on his big day should be a London Sock Company gift set, with designated co-ordinating socks for each member. For grey suits, opt for soft pastel shades like pink or mint; vivid red or purple will complement navy beautifully. Coordinate so that a photograph line-up runs the colours in harmony for an eye-catching effect.

Wedding Sock Colours, Pink Friday Gifts.

“The most important style ethos of any groom is to look comfortable, relaxed and effortless”

A wedding’s location also dictates the style of accessories. A continental event can marry sharp chinos and loafers with an unlined, soft-structure navy blazer and open-necked shirt, with thoughtful sock choices to complete the look – a wedding in Amalfi could call for lemon-yellow socks, while Tuscany could invite a pair in richest sienna shade. This will ensure the look is sprezzatura sharp instead of casual.

Credit, Tandem Photography. Pink Friday wedding socks.

If the wedding is more traditional, an impeccably tailored suit in inky navy or grey can act as a welcome antidote to the tried-and-tested morning suit. In this instance, it’s important that your accessories prevent the look from becoming corporate: monk-strap shoes with pop-bright shades, a precious metal tiepin, a tie in knitted fabric to lend texture and a grosgrain corsage for a contemporary cool. If the wedding is in winter, rich jewel tones will work beautifully on the groom and his band of men. And should your bride be looking for that ‘something blue’, there’s always the option of parlaying it into your outfit via a dash of vibrant cobalt on your ankle. When it comes to wedding style, think on your feet.

Stephen Doig is men’s style editor at The Telegraph

Visit our Bespoke Wedding section, for help choosing sock style combinations for you and your groomsmen.

The art of groom style, by Stephen Doig of The Telegraph.

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