How to Coordinate Your Wedding Dress and Groom’s Suit

The dress might be the star of the show, but coordinating your look as a couple ties your whole wedding aesthetic together. It’s all about finding balance — making sure your styles complement each other so you both look absolutely amazing. We know coordinating your wedding outfits can feel like just another item on your long to-do list, but we’re here to make it a fun and stress-free experience.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about matching your wedding dress and suit while helping you navigate the world of fabrics, colors, and accessories. We'll cover everything from finding the perfect color harmony to matching the formality of your outfits. By the end, you'll have all the tips you need to create a picture-perfect look that truly represents you as a couple. Let’s get started!

Finding Your Color Harmony

Creating a cohesive look starts with color. While you don’t need to match exactly, your outfits should feel like they belong together. The color of your wedding dress is the perfect starting point for choosing the groom's suit.

If Your Dress is Bright White

A pure, bright white dress is a classic and stunning choice. It offers a crisp, clean canvas that pairs beautifully with a range of suit colors.

• Classic Black: You can never go wrong with a timeless black tuxedo or suit. The sharp contrast creates a formal and elegant look that is always in style.

• Navy Blue: For a modern yet sophisticated feel, a navy suit is a fantastic option. It’s a little softer than black and looks incredible in photos.

• Charcoal Gray: A dark gray suit provides a distinguished and stylish alternative to black, offering a slightly less formal but equally sharp appearance.

If Your Dress is Ivory or Off-White

Most wedding dresses today are ivory, cream, or another off-white shade. These warmer tones pair beautifully with earthier and richer suit colors.

• Shades of Blue: From deep navy to a brighter royal blue, blue suits complement the warmth of an ivory dress perfectly.

• Warm Grays: A medium or light gray suit can create a soft, romantic look when paired with an ivory gown.

• Tan or Beige: For a relaxed, bohemian, or beach wedding, a tan or beige suit is an excellent choice. It enhances the warm tones of the dress and fits a more casual setting.

If Your Dress Has Color

Are you a bride with a blush, champagne, or even a bolder colored dress? How exciting! This is your chance to get really creative.

• Complementary Tones: Look at a color wheel to find complementary shades. For example, a light blue suit would be stunning next to a blush pink dress.

• Monochromatic Look: The groom can wear a suit in a darker or lighter shade of your dress color. A deep burgundy suit next to a champagne dress with rose-gold details would be breathtaking.

Matching the Formality

Ensuring your wedding dress and suit match in formality is key to a cohesive look. You want to look like you're both attending the same amazing party—your wedding!

Black-Tie and Formal Weddings

If you’re wearing a grand ball gown or a heavily embellished mermaid dress, the groom’s attire should be equally formal.

• Tuxedo: A classic black tuxedo is the go-to for a black-tie wedding. Complete the look with a bow tie, cummerbund, and patent leather shoes.

• Dark Suit: A well-fitted, dark suit in charcoal or navy is also appropriate for a formal wedding that isn't strictly black-tie.

Semi-Formal or Cocktail Weddings

For a wedding that's elegant but not strictly formal, you have more flexibility. This often suits sheath dresses, chic A-line gowns, or even stylish bridal separates.

• Suits in Various Colors: The groom can wear a suit in gray, blue, or even a deep green or burgundy.

• Mix and Match: A blazer and trousers combination can also work well. For example, a navy blazer with gray or tan trousers creates a sharp, stylish look.

Casual and Relaxed Weddings

Planning a laid-back garden, beach, or backyard wedding? If your dress is a simple, flowy style, the groom’s outfit can be more relaxed.

• Light-Colored Suits: Think linen or light cotton suits in beige, light gray, or pastel shades.

• No Jacket Required: For a truly casual vibe, the groom could opt for a dress shirt, suspenders, and trousers. This is perfect for a warm-weather or rustic wedding.

Coordinating Fabrics and Textures

Beyond color and formality, fabrics and textures add another layer of detail to your coordinated look. The fabric of your dress can inspire the material chosen for the groom’s suit.

• Lace and Classic Wool: If your dress features delicate lace, a classic wool suit for the groom creates a beautiful balance of textures. It’s a timeless combination.

• Satin and Velvet: For a luxurious, romantic feel, especially at a winter wedding, pair a sleek satin gown with a rich velvet blazer for the groom. The different sheens will play off each other beautifully.

• Tulle and Tweed: A fluffy tulle skirt on your dress pairs wonderfully with a textured tweed suit. This is perfect for a rustic or autumn wedding, adding warmth and depth to your look.

• Crepe and Linen: A modern, minimalist crepe dress looks fantastic next to a lightweight linen suit, ideal for a summer or destination wedding.

Tying it Together with Accessories

Accessories are the finishing touch that can truly synchronize your outfits. It’s all in the little details.

• The Tie or Bow Tie: The groom's tie is the easiest way to incorporate a color from your look. It could match the color of your bouquet, your shoes, or even a subtle shade in your dress.

• The Boutonnière: The groom's boutonnière should complement your bouquet. It’s a small but significant detail that connects your floral elements.

• Pocket Squares: A pocket square can introduce a pattern or color that ties back to your overall wedding theme or your dress.

• Socks and Shoes: Have some fun with it! The groom's socks can be a playful nod to your wedding colors. His shoe style should match the formality of his suit and your dress.

• Cufflinks and Jewelry: Coordinate metals. If your dress has silver beading or you’re wearing platinum jewelry, the groom could wear silver cufflinks. If you’re all about gold, have him match it.

Wedding Dress and Suit: Your Perfect Look

Your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story, and your outfits are a beautiful expression of that. By coordinating your wedding dress and suit, you create a harmonious look that will look incredible in person and in your photos for years to come.

Remember to have fun with the process and choose outfits that make you both feel confident and happy. It's your day, and your personal style should shine through. If you need a little help bringing your vision to life, our expert stylists at Ever After Bridal are always here to offer personalized advice and help you find the perfect match. Book your appointment today – we can't wait to help you create your dream look!